Programs and Services

At LEAD’s Center for Equine Assisted Youth Development, horses serve as powerful co-facilitators in equine assisted learning (EAL), offering unique and transformative experiences for young participants. We offer a variety of after school and summer equine assisted programs.

Tapping into the intuitive and nonjudgmental nature of horses, our knowledgeable staff provide a safe, supportive environment where youth can navigate challenges, strengthen communication skills, and experience personal breakthroughs. The benefits extend beyond the arena, equipping participants with the tools they need to succeed in school, relationships, and everyday life.

Equine assisted youth development integrates evidence-based practices from positive youth development, EAL, and horsemanship to create a unique and impactful model for personal growth. Through structured, purposeful interactions with horses, participants cultivate social-emotional skills, enhance problem-solving abilities, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and others. This leads to increased confidence, improved mental health, reduced behavioral concerns, and greater resilience as they grow into healthy, contributing members of society.

At LEAD’s Center for Equine Assisted Counseling, the profound connection between humans and horses becomes a catalyst for healing and transformation. Our programming provides an engaging and effective alternative to traditional therapy, addressing behavioral and mental health challenges. Unlike traditional talk therapy, programming engages participants in hands-on, interactive activities with horses, allowing participants to explore emotions, behaviors, and personal challenges in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment.

Central to our model is a highly skilled team consisting of a licensed Mental Health Professional, an Equine Specialist, and horses — each playing a crucial role in the therapeutic process. Staff are certified by the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA).

Our therapists integrate multiple therapeutic models, tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of each participant. This flexibility ensures that individuals receive personalized support, making therapy both effective and deeply impactful. Through meaningful interactions with horses, participants gain valuable insights, develop greater self-awareness and confidence, improve emotional regulation, and discover coping strategies that empower them beyond the arena and into their daily lives.

LEAD’s Center for Adaptive Riding contributes to the cognitive, physical, emotional, and social well-being of individuals with special needs. Therapeutic riding provides benefits in the areas of health, education, sport and recreation & leisure. The gait of a horse rhythmically moves the rider’s body in a manner similar to a human gait. Activities offer numerous benefits for individuals with special needs, including improved core strength, balance, coordination, flexibility, sensory integration, circulation, motor function, confidence, independence, and communication skills.

LEAD’s Center for Adaptive Riding is certified through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH). As a PATH Premiere Accredited Center, we have achieved over 100 standards for excellence in programming, site management, equine care, participant safety, and administration. Our experienced staff has completed extensive training and has passed stringent PATH testing and certification.

Horses are intuitive, patient, and forgiving, making them ideal partners for individuals with disabilities. Riders build self-confidence, independence, and social skills in a supportive, sensory-rich outdoor environment. Each lesson is tailored to meet the unique needs of every rider, fostering a sense of accomplishment while enhancing essential skills.