TJ Stables (Acceptional Riders)
Chatham, Ontario
Acceptional Riders is the therapeutic riding program at TJ Stables, a fully accessible equestrian facility on Gregory Drive East in Chatham, Ontario. TJ Stables describes it as a charitable program for children through adults with disabilities, running since 1992. It offers group and private therapeutic riding lessons and a non-riding Equine Assisted Learning program.
- Therapeutic riding group classes (up to 10 riders)
- Private therapeutic riding sessions (30 or 60 minutes)
- Equine Assisted Learning (non-riding)
- Recreational riding lessons, day camps and trail rides
- Children and adults with disabilities
- Riders from age 4
- Autistic children and adults
- People with Down syndrome or cerebral palsy
- People with limb differences
- People with ADD/ADHD or developmental delay
- People living with anxiety or depression
More about this center
About the Program
Riders can start as early as age 4. Classes take up to 10 riders, and each rider follows an individualized program in the group setting. Private one-on-one sessions of 30 or 60 minutes are available year-round. Group sessions run eight weeks, with times set at sign-up.
Classes are taught by qualified riding instructors and a therapeutic riding therapist, and the horses, volunteers and instructors receive special training. Riders come with a range of challenges, including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, limb differences, ADD/ADHD, developmental delay, anxiety and depression. New riders and volunteers are always welcome.
Equine Assisted Learning
Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) is a non-riding program built on experiential exercises with horses, with facilitators helping participants read the horses' nonverbal communication. TJ Stables says it helps participants build skills such as trust, confidence, communication and empathy, and that it is open to everyone.
Costs and Support
An eight-week session is $300 per participant, with fundraising and corporate donations covering the rest of the cost. Supporters include the Rotary Club of Chatham and the Chatham Lions Club. Call (519) 354-7517 to ask about rates for private sessions.
Location
TJ Stables is at 837 Gregory Dr. E., Chatham, ON N7M 5J7. Business hours are Monday to Saturday, 8 am to 5 pm, and the farm also offers riding lessons, camps, trail rides and overnight tipi stays.
From public records, not yet reviewed by the center · Last updated Oct 2026 Suggest an edit
Common Questions
Answered from the center’s own website and public records.
How old does my child need to be to join?
Riders can join the therapeutic riding program from age 4, and the program serves children through adults.
How much does therapeutic riding cost?
An eight-week session is $300 per participant. Fundraising and corporate donations cover the remaining cost of the program.
Are private lessons available?
Yes. Private one-on-one sessions of 30 or 60 minutes are offered year-round. Contact the stable for current rates.
How do I sign up?
Call (519) 354-7517 or email howdy@tjstables.ca. Session times are arranged at sign-up.
Location
Chatham, Ontario N7M 5J7
Questions to Ask When You Call
The center is the best source for these answers.
- Are you running now, and taking new riders?Start here. We couldn’t confirm a current schedule.
- Which ages and needs do you work with?Ask about experience with your rider’s specific condition.
- Is a licensed PT, OT or speech therapist involved?Therapist-led hippotherapy is usually the only kind insurance may cover.
- What does a session cost, and are there scholarships?Many nonprofit programs offer sliding scales or sponsored spots.
- Do you have a mounting ramp or lift?Important for riders who use a wheelchair or need help mounting.