Healing Winds Therapeutic Riding Center is a nonprofit equine-assisted services program located in Brush Prairie, Washington. Since 1989, the organization has been dedicated to promoting the physical and mental development of individuals with disabilities through therapeutic horseback riding and equine-assisted activities. Operating in partnership with Crosswinds Stables, the program provides a supportive environment where children and adults can experience the therapeutic benefits of working with horses while developing confidence, mobility, independence, and life skills.
The center has served individuals with a wide range of physical, developmental, cognitive, and emotional challenges for more than three decades. Through specialized riding instruction, trained therapy horses, and dedicated volunteers, Healing Winds helps participants achieve personal goals while experiencing the unique healing connection between horses and humans.
About This Program
Healing Winds Therapeutic Riding Center provides adaptive horseback riding experiences that combine riding instruction, recreation, relaxation, and therapeutic benefits. The program is designed to support participants in developing physical strength, balance, coordination, communication skills, confidence, and emotional well-being through structured equine-assisted activities.
The organization serves individuals with a variety of diagnoses and special needs, tailoring activities to meet each rider’s unique abilities and goals. The therapeutic movement of the horse, combined with the supportive environment created by instructors and volunteers, provides opportunities for meaningful growth and achievement.
Services Offered
- Therapeutic horseback riding
- Adaptive riding instruction
- Equine-assisted activities
- Therapeutic horsemanship programs
- Individualized riding sessions
- Recreational and therapeutic riding experiences
- Physical development through equine movement
- Confidence and self-esteem building activities
- Social and communication skill development
- Volunteer-supported riding programs
- Equine-assisted wellness experiences
- Community-based therapeutic recreation programs
Who They Serve
Healing Winds Therapeutic Riding Center may be good for:
- Children
- Teens
- Adults
- Individuals with autism spectrum disorder
- Individuals with cerebral palsy
- Individuals with ADD or ADHD
- Individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Individuals with muscular dystrophy
- Individuals with spina bifida
- Individuals with hearing impairments
- Individuals with Rett syndrome
- Individuals with developmental disabilities
- Individuals seeking adaptive recreational opportunities
- Families seeking therapeutic equine services
Facility and Setting
Healing Winds operates at Crosswinds Stables in Brush Prairie, Washington. The facility provides a peaceful rural setting where participants can engage with horses in a safe and welcoming environment. The natural surroundings create an ideal atmosphere for therapeutic riding and personal development while supporting the program’s mission of helping individuals achieve greater independence and well-being.
The center utilizes trained therapy horses and experienced instructors to provide individualized support for riders of varying abilities. Volunteers play an important role in helping participants safely enjoy the benefits of equine-assisted activities.
What Makes Them Unique
Healing Winds stands out for its long history of serving the Washington community through therapeutic riding. Having operated since 1989, the program has decades of experience helping children and adults with disabilities benefit from equine-assisted activities and adaptive riding instruction.
Another distinguishing feature is its commitment to making therapeutic riding accessible to individuals with a wide range of physical, developmental, and cognitive challenges. The organization combines professional instruction, dedicated volunteers, and carefully selected horses to create meaningful opportunities for growth, achievement, and improved quality of life.