Albany Therapeutic Riding Center Inc.
Altamont, New York
Albany Therapeutic Riding Center (ATRC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Altamont, New York, that has offered therapeutic riding since 1981. According to its website, its purpose is to create opportunities for individuals with disabilities to experience growth, independence and connection. Riders range from age 4 to adults and seniors.
- Therapeutic riding (English and Western)
- Private and small group lessons, 30 or 60 minutes
- Unmounted activities (grooming, groundwork, horse care)
- Veterans program with the Albany VA and Albany County Veterans Bureau
- Special Olympics New York equestrian show team
- Programs with Capital Region special education classrooms
- Volunteer opportunities
- Children ages 4 and older
- Adults and seniors
- People with disabilities
- People with intellectual and developmental disabilities
- Veterans, including disabled veterans
- Special education students
More about this center
About the Program
Lessons are private or small group, 30 or 60 minutes, and are led by instructors certified through PATH Intl. The center notes that its instructors are not medical providers. Most riders come once a week at the same time.
Lessons run in six-week sessions with a one-week break between sessions, Sunday through Friday from about 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday is a rest day for the horses. The center also works with partners including Living Resources, the Office of Children and Family Services and local school districts.
Getting Started
Families submit an application packet with health history, consent forms and a physician's release. Staff then schedule a 30-minute unmounted intake assessment, where the participant tours the farm and meets the horses. The center lists a $30 application fee and a $30 intake fee.
The mounted weight limit is 200 pounds, and riders over 160 pounds must be able to transfer on and off the horse independently. Wait times vary with scheduling, horse match and volunteer support, and some people wait a few months. An ASTM/SEI-certified helmet (provided if needed) and closed-toe shoes are required.
The Facility and Volunteering
The farm has a 75 x 150 indoor arena with a heated reception area, a 75 x 200 outdoor arena, a 50 x 100 outdoor schooling area, a 10-stall barn and grass paddocks with run-in sheds, so lessons can continue year-round.
Volunteers must be at least 14 and complete a training session, usually held every other Friday evening. Roles include horse leading, sidewalking, barn care, events and fundraising.
Location
The center is at 6640 Fuller Station Road, Altamont, NY 12009, in Albany County. Visitors are asked to schedule an appointment before coming.
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 much do lessons cost?
As listed on its website, a 30-minute lesson is $55 and a 60-minute lesson is $70, or $330 to $420 for a six-week session. The center says therapeutic riding is not typically covered by insurance. See our guide to equine therapy costs.
How old do riders need to be?
Riders must be at least 4 years old. Adults and seniors are welcome.
How do I enroll?
Download the participant application from the center's website, return it, and staff will schedule an intake assessment. Call (518) 280-2205 or email albanytherapeuticridingcenter@gmail.com with questions.
Location
Altamont, New York 12009
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.