The therapeutic riding lesson program is modeled after the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) guidelines for accredited operating centers. High Hopes accommodates all four elements of therapeutic riding as defined by NARHA: Recreation, Therapy, Sport, and Medicine in a unique way through our interdisciplinary team approach that includes the applied practices of both the Therapeutic Riding Instructor and licensed Therapists in the areas of Physical, Occupational, Speech and Language and Expressive Therapies.

Therapeutic riding lessons are planned with the individual’s educational, physical, social and recreational goals in mind.   Participants with a wide array of disabilities are active in this program, which comprises the core of High Hopes’ services. Prospective participants who express interest in the program are provided with information and the forms required for application. Once all forms are completed and returned to us, our staff assesses the applicant's eligibility.

Once an applicant is accepted in the program, therapeutic goals are established and progress is documented. Most participants have one 30-60 minute lesson each week for the length of the semester, with the majority continuing their lessons from one semester to the next. A NARHA certified instructor conducts each lesson. Lesson activities may include developing basic riding skills, exercises, games and riding the trails.

High Hopes has a 12-week lesson semester in the spring and fall and a 6-week semester in the summer and winter. Lessons take place in groups and individually using our indoor and outdoor arenas and expansive trails year-round.