PATH International: Accreditation, Certifications, and Organizational Role

The Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH International) is a nonprofit membership organization known for publishing industry standards, providing instructor certifications, and offering an accreditation process for centers involved in equine-assisted activities. Rather than operating a single location, PATH International functions as a professional hub that connects centers, instructors, and volunteers across a wide network.

This overview explains the organization’s role in the field, how its programs are structured, and how it has evolved over time.

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A Brief History

PATH International began in 1969 under the name North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA). Its early goal was to create a shared framework for adaptive riding programs and to encourage consistent, safety-focused approaches across emerging centers.

As the field grew and diversified, the organization expanded its mission. In 2011, NARHA adopted its current name — PATH International — to reflect its connection to equine-assisted activities beyond mounted instruction and its presence across multiple countries.

Today, PATH International supports a large network of member centers and credentialed professionals who participate in adaptive horsemanship and related equine-assisted programs.

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What PATH International Does

PATH International’s work centers on three major components: standards, professional certification, and center accreditation. Together, these areas provide a common structure for instructors and programs across the association’s network.

Standards for the Field

PATH International publishes a manual of voluntary standards that outline recommended practices for administrative policies, staff roles, risk management, equine care, and program operations. These standards offer a shared vocabulary and help centers reference expectations that support consistency across the field.

Professional Certification

PATH International credentials adaptive riding instructors, most notably through the Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI) program. The CTRI is a voluntary, entry-level credential that recognizes training and assessment in the fundamentals of adaptive riding instruction. Candidates complete coursework, written examinations, and practical evaluations to earn the credential.

This certification helps create a common baseline for instructors working within PATH International’s network.

Center Accreditation

PATH International also offers a voluntary accreditation process for centers. During this process, trained evaluators visit programs and review them against the published standards. Centers that meet the requirements earn the designation of Premier Accredited Center for a five-year period.

Accreditation establishes an external review framework that centers may choose to pursue as part of their commitment to quality and structure.

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Scope and Network

PATH International’s membership network spans hundreds of centers and thousands of credentialed professionals across the United States and in several other countries. These member organizations vary widely in size, programming, and community focus, but they share a connection to PATH International’s standards and professional development pathways.

The association’s reach continues to grow as more centers join, renew membership, or participate in trainings and events.

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PATH International’s Role Within the Landscape

PATH International plays a defining role in shaping the structure, terminology, and expectations of equine-assisted activities. Its work aligns with other national and international organizations by offering:

• a common standards framework
• professional certification pathways
• accreditation programs for centers
• continuing education opportunities
• a platform for communication among instructors, staff, and volunteers

PATH International focuses on adaptive horsemanship and equine-assisted program structure, while clinical services remain the domain of licensed healthcare and mental health professionals who operate under their own professional regulations.

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PATH International and Related Credentials

While PATH International provides instructor certification, other credentials exist within parallel areas of equine-assisted services. Many centers combine multiple certifications and roles, depending on their program mix, staffing, and local partnerships.

PATH International’s contribution is primarily within adaptive horsemanship and center standards, complementing — rather than replacing — other professional systems.

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A Global Perspective

PATH International maintains relationships with international organizations, contributing to broader discussions about equine-assisted activities worldwide. As the field continues to expand, PATH International shares in efforts to encourage consistent expectations, responsible equine management, and thoughtful program development in diverse settings.

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Conclusion

PATH International has played a central role in shaping the development of adaptive horsemanship and equine-assisted activities since 1969. Through its standards, certification programs, and center accreditation, the organization provides structure and continuity across a geographically diverse field.

As new programs emerge and existing centers evolve, PATH International remains a significant point of connection for professionals, volunteers, and organizations involved in equine-assisted activities.