Location: Otego, New York, United States
Athelas Therapeutic Riding, Inc. is a nonprofit equine-assisted services program in Otego, New York, that offers therapeutic riding for children and adults with physical, mental, and emotional challenges. The program is based at Northfield Farm and focuses on helping riders build strength, confidence, independence, and joy through structured work with horses.
About This Program
Athelas Therapeutic Riding provides year-round riding lessons tailored to each rider’s specific needs. Lessons are designed around the relationship between horse and rider, with goals that can include improving balance, posture, muscle tone, coordination, communication, focus, confidence, teamwork, responsibility, and stress reduction.
The program serves riders of all ages and physical abilities. Lessons are led by certified instructors or instructors in training, with support from volunteers and carefully selected horses trained to work with riders who have special needs.
Services Offered
- Therapeutic riding lessons
- Year-round riding program
- Individualized lesson planning
- Volunteer-supported riding sessions
- Scholarship opportunities through the Jo-Ann Currie Scholarship Foundation
Who They Serve
Athelas Therapeutic Riding may be a good fit for:
- Children with physical challenges
- Adults with physical challenges
- Individuals with mental health challenges
- Individuals with emotional challenges
- Riders with impaired mobility
- Individuals with learning or developmental disabilities
Facility and Setting
Athelas Therapeutic Riding operates at Northfield Farm in Otego, New York. The program runs year-round at 1179 County Highway 5, and visits are by appointment only.
- Otego, New York location
- Based at Northfield Farm
- Year-round riding program
- Volunteer-supported lessons
- Farm visits by appointment only
What Makes Them Unique
Athelas Therapeutic Riding stands out for its individualized lesson planning and year-round programming. The program is built around matching each rider’s goals with the physical, emotional, and therapeutic benefits of working with horses in a caring, relaxed environment.
The program also combines certified instruction, trained horses, dedicated volunteers, and scholarship support, which helps make services accessible to a wider range of riders and families.