Hippotherapy is a therapy treatment strategy that utilizes a horse’s movements to improve an individual’s neurologic functioning. It is not a horseback riding lesson. Hippotherapy at TaKE Center is a physical therapy session that takes place on a horse, delivered by a team led by Terri Long, MPT, a licensed, credentialed therapist. It is used to treat people with various disabilities, including physical and cognitive challenges. The goal is to improve both strength and neurological functioning in the rider’s body movement, cognition, organization, sensory processing, motor planning and attention levels.

Therapeutic Riding consists of horseback riding lessons that are recreational in nature, adapted for individuals with disabilities. Lessons are conducted by professional riding instructors (not therapists) along with the help of volunteers. Instruction may be private, semi-private or group lessons. The instructor generally teaches from the center of the arena to the group.

The goal is emphasis on proper riding position and rein skills, not therapeutic goals. Since this is considered an adaptive sport, this would not be covered by insurance. A physician’s prescription is required for therapeutic riding.

As the leader of the local 4-H club, Spurs n' Burrs, kids ages 8 to 18 are able to build their knowledge of horsemanship and responsible, ethical equine use, care, and management. 

TaKE Center riders have participated in therapeutic horse shows such as those held at Thorncroft Equestrian Center as well as 4-H Horse Shows on the County, Regional and State levels.

We can provide demonstrations of our services and their benefits to participants.

Terri Long provides consultant services to other hippotherapy programs, providing advice on how to improve them.