Lake Erie College Therapeutic Horsemanship Program is an equine-assisted services center in Painesville, Ohio, offering therapeutic riding, equine-assisted services, and equine-assisted mental health programs within a collegiate learning environment. The program is built around the belief that meaningful interactions with horses can support physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth while helping participants build confidence, independence, and life skills through structured, evidence-based experiences.
This is a well-established program operating through Lake Erie College’s School of Equine Studies and is recognized as a PATH International Premier Accredited Center. The program combines community service with hands-on educational opportunities for students pursuing careers in therapeutic horsemanship and equine-assisted services, creating a unique blend of professional training and participant support.
About This Program
Lake Erie College Therapeutic Horsemanship serves riders and participants through therapeutic riding lessons, equine-assisted services, and equine-assisted mental health programs. Participants engage in mounted and unmounted activities that include grooming, horse handling, horsemanship education, and riding instruction under the guidance of certified instructors and trained volunteers.
The overall approach is structured, educational, and participant-centered. Programs are designed to support physical development, emotional regulation, social connection, and confidence-building while fostering meaningful relationships between participants, horses, volunteers, and instructors. Small-group lessons help ensure individualized support and a safe learning environment.
Services Offered
- Therapeutic riding
- Equine-assisted services (EAS)
- Equine-assisted mental health services
- Adaptive horsemanship instruction
- Grooming and horse care activities
- Ground-based equine learning experiences
- Volunteer-supported equine programming
- Educational opportunities for future equine-assisted services professionals
Who They Serve
- Children
- Teens
- Adults
- Individuals with developmental disabilities
- Individuals with physical disabilities
- Individuals seeking emotional and social growth support
- Veterans and first responders
- Families and community members interested in equine-assisted services
Facility and Setting
Lake Erie College Therapeutic Horsemanship operates from the George M. Humphrey Equestrian Center in Painesville, Ohio. The center is part of Lake Erie College’s nationally recognized equine studies program and features multiple indoor and outdoor arenas, extensive riding facilities, and a large herd of school horses used for education, competition, and therapeutic programming.
The atmosphere combines the professionalism of a college equestrian program with the welcoming nature of a community therapeutic riding center. Participants benefit from a structured environment where safety, horse welfare, education, and individualized support are prioritized.
What Makes Them Unique
Lake Erie College stands out for integrating therapeutic horsemanship into a higher education setting. Participants receive services through a PATH International Premier Accredited Center while students gain hands-on experience working alongside instructors and equine-assisted services professionals. This creates a unique environment that supports both community impact and workforce development.
Another strength is the program’s comprehensive scope. In addition to therapeutic riding, the center offers equine-assisted mental health services and educational pathways in therapeutic horsemanship, making it one of the few college-based programs with such extensive equine-assisted offerings.