Location: Lawrence Township, New Jersey, United States
Heads Up Special Riders is an equine-assisted services program based in Lawrence Township, New Jersey, offering therapeutic riding and equine-assisted activities in a structured and supportive equestrian setting. The program focuses on improving physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being through guided interaction with horses and adaptive riding experiences.
This is a long-standing program with a strong community presence and a focus on both therapeutic riding and mental health support. Established in 1990, Heads Up Special Riders has expanded over time to include equine-assisted psychotherapy and serves a wide range of participants from the Princeton-area community.
About This Program
Heads Up Special Riders serves children, teens, and adults through equine-assisted activities and therapies designed to support individual development in a calm and structured environment. The program operates out of an established equestrian facility, allowing participants to engage in both riding and horse-centered experiences.
The overall approach is adaptive and participant-focused. In addition to therapeutic riding, the program incorporates elements of equine-assisted psychotherapy, offering opportunities for emotional growth, confidence building, and skill development through guided interaction with horses.
Services Offered
• Therapeutic riding
• Equine-assisted activities
• Equine-assisted psychotherapy
• Adaptive horsemanship
• Ground-based horse interaction
• Life skills development through equine experiences
Who They Serve
• Children
• Teens
• Adults
• Individuals with physical disabilities
• Individuals with cognitive or developmental challenges
• Participants with emotional or behavioral needs
• Individuals seeking therapeutic horse-centered experiences
Facility and Setting
Heads Up Special Riders operates out of an established equestrian facility in Lawrence Township, New Jersey, in the Princeton area. The setting provides access to riding spaces and structured barn environments that support both mounted and unmounted activities.
The atmosphere is practical and community-oriented, offering a structured environment where participants can safely engage with horses while working toward therapeutic and personal development goals.
What Makes Them Unique
Heads Up Special Riders stands out for its long history and continued development as a program serving individuals with diverse needs. Its expansion into equine-assisted psychotherapy adds a mental health dimension that complements traditional therapeutic riding.
Another key strength is its connection to the local community, including partnerships that support individuals experiencing significant life challenges. This creates a program that is both accessible and responsive to a wide range of participant needs.