High Hopes Therapeutic Riding
Old Lyme, Connecticut
High Hopes Therapeutic Riding is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Old Lyme, Connecticut, founded in 1974. It offers therapeutic riding, ground-based horsemanship, carriage driving and wellness programs. According to its website, most participants are ages 3 to 14 and have cognitive, physical, behavioral, psychological or sensory disabilities, though some riders are in their 70s.
- Therapeutic riding
- Ground-based horsemanship classes
- Carriage driving
- Horsemanship for Parkinson's
- Youth Empowerment Program (unmounted)
- Shared Strides wellness program for adults 60+
- Minis on the Move miniature horse visits
- Free horsemanship program for veterans
- Children and adults with disabilities
- People with Parkinson's
- Youth ages 9 to 16 who have experienced trauma
- Adults 60 and over
- Women, including trauma survivors
- Veterans and active duty personnel
More about this center
About the Program
High Hopes says its riding lessons accommodate the four elements of therapeutic riding as defined by PATH Intl. and are taught by PATH Intl. Certified Instructors, with a 180 lb rider weight limit. Its team includes consulting physical, occupational, speech and language, and expressive therapists, along with mental health practitioners and educators.
Ground-based options include individualized horsemanship classes, a Youth Empowerment Program for small groups ages 9 to 16, equine facilitated learning sessions, and a Women's Wellness Initiative. Its Minis on the Move program brings miniature horses to schools, senior centers and care facilities.
Veterans
The center lists a free horsemanship program for veterans and active duty personnel. Most sessions are small-group and unmounted, run 6 to 8 weeks, and rotate through the year. Advance registration is required. See our guide to equine therapy for veterans.
History
High Hopes began in 1974 as the Lower Connecticut Valley Educational Riding Association, founded by Mary "Sis" Gould with eight students and borrowed horses. Its website says it was one of the first centers accredited by NARHA (now PATH Intl.) in 1979 and opened the Sis Gould Center in Old Lyme in 1990. It also trains instructors through the PATH Intl. instructor course.
Location
The center is at 36 Town Woods Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371. Its veterans page describes a 120-acre facility.
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 do I enroll a participant?
The participants page lists an online registration form or a printable packet, plus a medical history and physician's statement.
How much do lessons cost?
Call 860-434-1974 to ask about current rates. The site notes that financial aid has reached capacity for the current semester. Our guide to equine therapy costs explains typical pricing.
Is there a cancellation policy?
The website asks participants to give 72 hours notice to cancel, using its Participant Cancellation Form.
How can I volunteer?
High Hopes accepts commitments from an hour a week to a few days a month. Email volunteer@highhopestr.org to ask.
Location
Old Lyme, Connecticut 06371
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.