THE INSTITUTE OF EQUESTRIAN THERAPY in  Simi Valley, is a California 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization dedicated to teaching  horseback riding to children and adults with physical and mental disabilities.  We are located on the beautiful grounds of The Brandeis-Bardin Institute, a 3000 acre cultural arts center in Simi Valley. The IET is the oldest therapeutic riding program in Southern California. We have been providing services to the disabled since 1974.

WHAT IS EQUESTRIAN THERAPY? Equestrian Therapy is horseback riding for the disabled. By combining equestrian techniques with concepts of physical therapy, we create therapeutic riding for mentally and physically disabled people. Rather than the routine of other therapies, equestrian therapy is practiced in an atmosphere of fun and sport. The rider learns traditional horsemanship skills to control the horse, thus increasing his or her self-esteem as well as improving their physical abilities. The opportunity to lead a horse, to groom and help saddle it, are very real sources of excitement and accomplishment. The natural affinity between people and horses is a powerful way of encouraging the disabled to achieve their full potential.

Almost every disabled person can benefit from therapeutic riding. In less than fifteen minutes a walking horse takes a thousand steps. Each one requires the rider to use their muscles to maintain balance and their mind to control the horse. Major improvements have been observed with cerbral palsied, mentally retarded, autistic, emotionally disturbed, learning disabled, stroke and accident victims. Riding builds muscle strength, balance and coordination; it increases joint mobility and perceptual skills. Equestrian Therapy challenges students in a way they have seldom been challenged before. The Institute of Equestrian Therapy was founded by Jacques Fouchaux, a professional rider from the French Cavalry, who has taught the handicapped since 1961. The IET is always in need of cash donations, saddles, bridles, and other tack items, as well as volunteers to help with student lessons and fundraising activities. To volunteer or to sign up a new student please e-mail us at  equestriantherapy@yahoo.com