LaDawn Quarter Horses Therapeutic Riding Center is a nonprofit equine-assisted services organization located in Dayton, Maine, dedicated to helping children and adults with disabilities improve their physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well-being through therapeutic horseback riding and hippotherapy. Since 2002, the center has served individuals throughout York County and surrounding communities by fostering meaningful horse-human interactions that support personal growth and improved quality of life.
The program operates under the direction of a Maine-licensed occupational therapist and licensed therapeutic riding instructor, supported by a dedicated team of volunteers and specially trained horses. Through individualized treatment plans and adaptive riding experiences, LaDawn helps participants develop confidence, focus, balance, coordination, and independence in a safe and encouraging environment.
About This Program
LaDawn Quarter Horses Therapeutic Riding Center provides therapeutic horseback riding, hippotherapy, and equine-assisted services tailored to the unique needs of each participant. Riders are accepted from age two and older and may be referred by therapists, case managers, treatment centers, family members, or enroll independently. Each participant receives an individualized treatment plan designed around specific goals and abilities.
The program is led by an experienced occupational therapist who integrates therapeutic principles into riding sessions. Participants often work toward goals related to physical mobility, emotional regulation, social interaction, attention, confidence, and daily living skills. The center also offers opportunities for horse care, grooming, and barn management activities that complement mounted instruction.
Services Offered
- Therapeutic horseback riding
- Hippotherapy
- Equine-facilitated psychotherapy
- Occupational therapy-supported riding sessions
- Grooming and barn management groups
- Adaptive riding instruction
- Individualized treatment planning
- Ground-based equine activities
- Volunteer-supported equine programming
Who They Serve
LaDawn Quarter Horses Therapeutic Riding Center may be good for:
- Children
- Teens
- Adults
- Individuals with physical disabilities
- Individuals with cognitive disabilities
- Individuals with developmental disabilities
- Individuals with emotional or behavioral challenges
- Individuals with social or communication difficulties
- Participants seeking hippotherapy services
- Families looking for therapeutic equine-assisted programs
Facility and Setting
LaDawn operates from a fully accessible equestrian facility in Dayton, Maine. The center features a handicapped-accessible barn, indoor riding arena, outdoor riding areas, and a climate-controlled viewing room where family members and caregivers can comfortably observe lessons. The facility is designed to support year-round programming and maximize participant safety and comfort.
The atmosphere is welcoming, supportive, and community-focused. Volunteers play an important role in maintaining the facility, caring for the horses, and assisting participants during sessions, helping create an environment where riders can feel encouraged and successful.
What Makes Them Unique
LaDawn Quarter Horses Therapeutic Riding Center stands out for its integration of therapeutic riding with occupational therapy expertise. Sessions are conducted under the guidance of a licensed occupational therapist with extensive equestrian experience, allowing participants to benefit from a structured therapeutic approach while enjoying the rewards of horseback riding.
Another distinguishing feature is the organization’s commitment to accessibility. Since 2002, LaDawn has worked to make therapeutic riding and hippotherapy available to individuals regardless of disability or financial circumstances, relying on volunteers, community support, and a mission-driven approach to serving local families.