Location: Gretna, Nebraska, United States
Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy (HETRA) is a well-established equine-assisted services center based in Gretna, Nebraska, offering a wide range of therapeutic riding and equine-assisted programs. Founded in 1989, the organization has grown from a small volunteer-led initiative into a large nonprofit serving over 150 participants weekly with the support of certified instructors, licensed therapists, and a strong volunteer community.
The program is built around the mission of improving the physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being of individuals through structured interaction with horses. As Nebraska’s only PATH International Premier Accredited Center, HETRA maintains a high standard of professionalism, safety, and program quality in the field of equine-assisted services.
About This Program
HETRA provides a comprehensive range of equine-assisted activities and therapies designed to meet the needs of individuals of all ability levels. The program integrates adaptive riding with clinical therapy services, including hippotherapy, allowing participants to work toward individualized physical and emotional goals.
Sessions are led by PATH International certified instructors and licensed therapists, ensuring a structured and effective therapeutic environment. In addition to mounted activities, the program also includes ground-based learning, life skills development, and equine-assisted education, creating a well-rounded experience for participants.
Services Offered
• Adaptive riding (therapeutic riding)
• Hippotherapy and therapy services (OT, PT, speech therapy)
• Equine-assisted learning
• Adaptive carriage driving
• Equine services for veterans and first responders
• Life skills training and camps
• Special Olympics and recreational programs
Who They Serve
Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy (HETRA) may be good for:
• Children
• Teens
• Adults
• Individuals with disabilities
• Veterans and first responders
• Participants with physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges
• Individuals seeking structured therapeutic or educational equine programs
Facility and Setting
Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy (HETRA) is located in Gretna, Nebraska, on a dedicated equestrian campus spanning approximately 25 acres. The facility is designed to support a wide variety of therapeutic and educational programs, with specialized spaces for riding, therapy sessions, and group activities.
The environment is highly structured and professional while maintaining a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere. With a large team of volunteers and staff, the program is able to provide consistent, high-quality support to participants across multiple program areas.
What Makes Them Unique
HETRA stands out for its scale, accreditation, and breadth of services. As the only PATH International Premier Accredited Center in Nebraska, it offers a level of credibility and program quality that is uncommon in many regions.
Another distinguishing feature is its integration of clinical therapy, adaptive riding, and educational programming within one organization. This allows participants to access multiple forms of support in a single setting, tailored to their individual needs. Its long history, dating back to 1989, also reflects strong organizational stability and community trust.