Therapeutic Riding Program
In a natural environment, our equine-assisted therapy is an organic combination of speech,
physical, and relationship-building therapy.
This therapy builds a variety of skills:
• Balance and coordination • Flexibility and core muscle strength
• Sequencing • Speech and communication
• Self-esteem and self-confidence
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Our program goals include addressing each rider’s individual needs and working WITH the client’s parents/ guardians, contributing therapists, and doctors to achieve his or her goals. As clients move through the 77-step Equine-Assisted Healthcare Program, progress is measured according to the mastery of these steps. The program is relevant for over 150 disabilities as well as at-risk youth, victims of abuse, and veterans.
The best therapist has fur and four legs.
Our Mission
The mission of the our Helping with Horsepower Therapeutic Riding Program is to assist individuals with special needs in reaching their goals through
interaction with our horses.
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Our team has received certification through SpiritHorse International and launched this unique Equine-Assisted Healthcare Program at Reclamation-Ranch in Mitchell, South Dakota!
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Focus
Strong focus is placed on building independence, and clients assist, to the best of their ability, in all areas of preparation and horse care: leading, grooming, putting on and removing equipment before and after their ride. This develops a sense of self-sufficiency, accomplishment, as well as sequencing and speech skills. During the mounted portion, instructors lead the client through our program which utilizes movements and activities on the horse to develop rhythm and balance, and stimulate brain activity that actually works as effective intervention for the deficits of disabilities.
Private Sessions
Clients schedule private, one hour sessions each week, with a designated horse and instructor. We operate from May-October at Reclamation- Ranch. Long pants and closed toe shoes are required. We provide a helmet for the riding portion of the session. Parents/caregivers are encouraged to assist. There is no age limit.
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The fees for services are based on ability to pay, and we will work with you individually to determine how to get you/your child started. We are happy to provide these services to your family through our non-profit organization, allowing us to receive donations, grants, and scholarships in order to serve as many children and adults as possible.
The regular rate for a one hour session is $65.
Our Instructors
(and Volunteers!)
After volunteering for one full season, an individual can apply for instructor training. Once accepted, they are required to attend training that is provided by Helping With Horsepower, free of charge. The Instructor positions at Helping with Horsepower
are paid positions.
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We could not serve the people we do without our Volunteers. We are so thankful for each one of them! And, you can help too! No horse experience necessary. There are a variety of opportunities to help around the ranch. But, what we count on the most to offer the private sessions is our sidewalkers.
We offer free volunteer training to be sure you are confident in the ability to assist the instructors during a session. There are session incentives that include FREE riding lessons for YOU. Our Volunteers love to share our success stories, just like we do. It’s a very personally fulfilling opportunity. Just fill out our Volunteer application, tell us when you are available for sessions, and let’s get you on our team! (background check required.)