CHAPS Equine Assisted Services (Children, Horses & Adults in Partnership) is a nonprofit equine-assisted services organization located in Sheridan, Wyoming. The organization is dedicated to improving the lives of children, adults, and veterans through the healing and educational benefits of the human-horse connection. CHAPS provides therapeutic riding, adaptive driving, equine-assisted learning, and equine-facilitated psychotherapy programs designed to support physical, emotional, social, and psychological growth.
Founded on the belief that horses can create meaningful opportunities for growth and connection, CHAPS follows Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) International standards and provides individualized equine-assisted programs in a safe, supportive environment. Through specially trained horses, certified instructors, therapists, volunteers, and staff, participants are empowered to develop confidence, independence, communication skills, and overall well-being.
About This Program
CHAPS Equine Assisted Services offers adaptive therapeutic riding and equine-assisted programs for individuals with disabilities, medical conditions, developmental challenges, and emotional or psychological needs. The adaptive riding program uses traditional riding instruction with therapeutic goals, helping participants improve balance, coordination, strength, confidence, and social skills while building a partnership with their horse.
In addition to mounted activities, CHAPS provides adaptive driving, equine-assisted learning, and equine-facilitated psychotherapy. These programs allow participants to work with horses in different ways, including ground-based activities focused on communication, coping strategies, mindfulness, relationship building, and personal growth.
Services Offered
- Adaptive therapeutic horseback riding
- Therapeutic driving programs
- Equine Assisted Learning (EAL)
- Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP)
- Recreational riding opportunities
- Horsemanship education
- Ground-based equine activities
- Individualized therapeutic riding lessons
- Adaptive riding support and equipment
- Confidence and independence development
- Social and emotional skill building
- Veteran equine programs
- Volunteer opportunities
- Community education programs
Who They Serve
CHAPS Equine Assisted Services may be good for:
- Children ages 4 and older with disabilities
- Teens and adults with physical disabilities
- Individuals with developmental disabilities
- Individuals with cognitive disabilities
- Individuals with autism spectrum disorder
- Individuals with emotional or psychological challenges
- Veterans
- Individuals seeking confidence and independence through equine activities
- Families seeking therapeutic recreation opportunities
- Individuals interested in equine-assisted learning and therapy
Facility and Setting
CHAPS Equine Assisted Services operates at 501 U.S. Highway 14 East, Sheridan, Wyoming. The facility provides an accessible environment with accommodations including accessible parking, ramps, and accessible restrooms to support participants with a variety of mobility needs.
The program is supported by PATH International-certified professionals, trained volunteers, and carefully selected therapy horses. The team works together to create safe and meaningful experiences where participants can learn, grow, and achieve personal goals through equine interaction.
What Makes Them Unique
CHAPS Equine Assisted Services stands out for its comprehensive approach to equine-assisted programming. Rather than focusing only on therapeutic riding, the organization offers a variety of services—including adaptive riding, driving, equine-assisted learning, and equine-facilitated psychotherapy—to address the physical, emotional, social, and psychological needs of participants.
Another unique feature is CHAPS’ commitment to maintaining professional standards through PATH International guidelines. Certified instructors and equine specialists provide structured programs that emphasize participant safety, horse welfare, and individualized progress while helping people experience the transformative benefits of working with horses.