Programs (Overview)
Equine-assisted services meet riders where they are. At THOR, each session is planned around specific goals—improving balance and core strength, practicing communication, building attention and task sequencing, or reducing anxiety through structured routines. We collaborate with families and, when appropriate, with clinicians and educators to align barn activities with goals outside the arena.
What a session looks like
Riders may groom to build connection and fine-motor skills, then mount with adaptive equipment as needed. In the arena, instructors and trained volunteers use the horse’s movement, patterns, and games to target balance, coordination, and communication. Sessions end with a cool-down and brief recap of wins and next steps.
Safety & credentialing
Instruction at THOR follows Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) guidelines. The PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI) credential emphasizes safety, lesson planning, and ethical practice in equine-assisted services.
Explore our core offerings
If you’re unsure where to begin, contact us. We’ll help determine fit, frequency, and any adaptive tack that will make sessions comfortable and effective.
Therapeutic Riding
Goal-oriented mounted activities to support physical and developmental outcomes.
Veterans & PTSD Support
A calm space for connection, movement, and grounding for veterans navigating post-traumatic stress.
Member Reviews
Michael H
"After leaving the military, I struggled with adjusting back to civilian life. Traditional therapy helped to a point, but nothing connected like the time I’ve spent with the horses at THOR. The calm, steady presence of these animals has given me a way to manage my anxiety and focus on the moment. Riding has improved my balance and confidence, but more importantly, it’s restored my sense of purpose. THOR is more than a program—it’s a lifeline for veterans like me."
Ridgecrest CAJames K
"I was skeptical at first—how could working with horses help me deal with the nightmares and the constant feeling of being on edge? But THOR changed that. The staff’s patience and the horses’ sensitivity helped me find calm when I thought it was impossible. Each session gave me the strength to reconnect with myself and my family. I’ve gone from feeling trapped in my trauma to actually enjoying life again. For veterans dealing with PTSD, this program is absolutely transformative."
Los Angeles CARobert S
"When I came to THOR, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to be a rider or just help out—but I quickly learned it doesn’t matter. Whether I’m in the saddle or leading a horse for another veteran, I feel part of a team again, like I did in the service. That camaraderie was something I’d been missing for years. THOR gave it back to me, along with the peace that comes from connecting with these amazing horses. Every veteran should experience this."
Ridgecrest CA