Cowgirl - Therapeutic
Photo courtesy of Camp ASCCA.

If you’re interested in helping children and adults with mental and/or physical disabilities, you might want to consider becoming a certified therapeutic riding instructor. This career can combine your passion of working with horses and helping people. There are many great resources available for those that are unsure of where to begin. Let’s take a closer look at this fulfilling job title.

On a daily basis therapeutic riding instructors may assist with the following:

  • Teach private or group lessons to disabled students
  • Perform new rider evaluations
  • Speak with students or parents to discuss goals
  • Monitor horse behavior
  • Match riders and horses based on skills and temperament
  • Create lesson plans
  • Keep barn tidy
  • Assist with caring for the horses

Eligible candidates should have a background in riding and working with disabled individuals. Those that wish to become certified will need to be at least 18 years old. It is highly advisable to gain teaching experience. Instructors are patient, caring and determined to help. They’ll have excellent communication skills and not be afraid to speak in a group environment.

You can earn a salary around $39,000, depending on experience and location.

Organizations that offer certification classes include:

How great would it be if you could help people through horseback riding.  If this might be a career of interest to you, consider volunteering at your local therapeutic riding stable. These instructors have a special mission to make a difference.

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