Therapeutic Horsemanship

Lake Erie College Therapeutic Riding & Equine-Assisted Services

The Lake Erie College Therapeutic Horsemanship program is dedicated to enriching lives through meaningful, evidence-based interactions with horses. Rooted in compassion, safety, and science, our program uses human–horse interaction to support physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth for individuals in our community.

As part of Lake Erie College’s commitment to experiential learning and community engagement, our program offers both equine-assisted services (EAS) for the community and a hands-on educational environment for students as future EAS professionals.

Why Horses?

Research has shown that equine-assisted services use the horse as a powerful multi-sensory partner in learning and healing. Horses respond honestly to human body language, emotional regulation, and intention, creating opportunities for growth that are difficult to replicate in traditional settings. Through interactions with horses, participants often experience:

Increased self-confidence and sense of accomplishment
Improved balance, coordination, and body awareness
Enhanced emotional regulation and social connection
Greater trust in themselves, others, and their environment

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Therapeutic Riding

Therapeutic riding focuses on teaching horsemanship and riding skills within a structured, supportive environment. Participants engage in planned lessons that incorporate mounted and unmounted activities, guided by certified instructors and trained volunteers.

Riders are encouraged to:

Learn horsemanship and communication skills
Participate in grooming, tacking, and riding
Develop responsibility, independence, and confidence
Build meaningful relationships with horses and people

Lessons are offered in small group settings to promote safety, connection, and individualized support. Programs run year-round, serving children, adolescents, and adults from the surrounding community.

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Learning Environment

As a college-based program, Lake Erie College Therapeutic Riding is uniquely positioned to integrate education, service, and animal welfare. Students gain hands-on experience working alongside instructors, therapists, and horses, while learning the responsibility and ethics required in equine-assisted work.
Volunteers and students play a vital role in our program, serving as:
• Side-walkers and horse leaders
• Barn and horse care assistants
• Support staff for lessons and sessions
All volunteers receive training, so no experience is necessary.

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Equine-Assisted Mental Health Services

In partnership with licensed mental health professionals, Lake Erie College also offers equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP). These services use unmounted, ground-based activities with horses to support clinical goals related to trauma, stress, emotional regulation, and relational healing.
Equine-assisted psychotherapy is especially impactful for individuals who may find traditional office-based therapy challenging. Horses provide immediate, nonverbal feedback that supports insight, presence, and authentic connection.
Our developing programs place particular emphasis on:
• Trauma-informed care
• Veteran and First Responder mental health
• Family and group-based services
• Mind–body awareness and regulation
Sessions are intentionally designed to be safe, respectful, and client-centered, supporting healing at a pace guided by the participant

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Equine Studies Faculty

Bethany

Assistant Professor of Equine Studies

Baxley, PhD

Allie

Instructor of Equine Studies

Pelz, BA

Michael

Equine Studies Faculty & Resident Veterinarian

Cinotti, DVM

Laura

Associate Dean of the School of Science, Animal Studies & Human Services and Dean of Equine Studies

Stockhaus, MBA

Equine Studies Staff

Hannah

Horse Care Manager

Matasich

Kelsea

Coordinator of Equine Studies

Minks

Tom

Equestrian Facilities Manager