Specialized Equine Services and Therapeutic Riding
Makanda, Illinois
Specialized Equine Services (SES) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a barn in Makanda, in Southern Illinois. It offers therapeutic riding for children and adults with physical, mental, emotional or cognitive disabilities, for foster children, and for veterans affected by trauma.
- Therapeutic riding lessons, private or small group
- Mounted and non-mounted equine-assisted activities
- VETS (Veteran Equine Therapeutic Services) program
- Weekly lessons in 4 to 8 week sessions
- Covered arena for three-season riding
- Volunteer training
- Children age 4 and older
- Adults
- Veterans, including those affected by trauma
- People with physical disabilities
- People with mental, emotional or cognitive disabilities
- Foster children
More about this center
About the Program
According to its website, SES was established in 2012 by parents and benefactors of existing riders to support a growing therapeutic riding program, and received 501(c)(3) status in January 2013. Lessons are led by PATH Intl. Certified Riding Instructors with help from volunteers, and the site lists a recreational therapist on staff.
The VETS program offers therapeutic riding for veterans. Board president Kevin MacDonald told KFVS he first took part as a veteran rider in 2014. For background, see our guide to equine therapy for veterans.
Getting Started
The website says all riders need a signed application, release forms and a physician's statement clearing them for riding, and that a therapeutic riding instructor evaluates each person before enrollment.
Lessons are once a week in multi-week sessions, and the riding season runs March through October. KFVS reported that 2026 sessions began March 20 and 21. Call 618-967-0064 or email info@sestherapy.com to ask about current rates.
Location
The barn is at 830 Rowan Rd, Makanda, IL 62958. Mail goes to P.O. Box 520, Carterville, IL 62918. The website lists hours of 9 am to 5 pm daily, closed Sundays.
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 rider?
Submit the application and release forms and a physician's statement; an instructor then evaluates the rider before enrollment. Call 618-967-0064 to start.
What ages does SES serve?
The website says riders must be at least 4 years old. Its programs page says there is no maximum age as long as there are no physical or medical contraindications.
How much do lessons cost?
Email info@sestherapy.com or call 618-967-0064 for current pricing.
Can I volunteer?
Yes. KFVS reported a volunteer training day on March 14, 2026, before sessions began. Call 618-967-0064 for details.
Location
Makanda, Illinois 62958
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.