We Rank the Best Businesses

  • Unbiased Research Rankings

    Unbiased Research Rankings

  • Highest Standards Required

    Highest Standards Required

  • Proprietary Criteria System

    Proprietary Criteria System

Industry Overview

When exploring the world of Equine Therapy Companies, potential clients are greeted with a diverse range of therapeutic options, each offering a unique path to healing and personal growth. This industry thrives on the understanding that the connection between humans and horses can be a powerful catalyst for change, particularly for individuals facing emotional and psychological challenges.

Among the industry leaders, Villa Oasis San Diego stands out for its luxurious approach, combining upscale detox and rehab with a variety of therapeutic services, including equine therapy. Their focus on individualized treatment plans and a comprehensive care model echoes the sentiments of Silver Horse Retreat, which also emphasizes the transformative power of horse-assisted activities. Both centers highlight the importance of a serene environment and personalized care, although Villa Oasis tilts towards a more upscale, resort-like experience.

Moving from luxury to heartwarming inclusivity, Lilac Recovery Center and NDR Therapeutic Riding open their arms to a wider audience. Lilac Recovery Center provides a full spectrum of addiction treatment and mental health services, while NDR Therapeutic Riding focuses on enhancing lives through equine-assisted activities for individuals of all abilities. Both organizations share a dedication to empowerment and self-improvement, though they differ in their primary audiences and service offerings.

For those seeking a more spiritual or holistic journey, Solutions Through Horses Equine Therapy and Walk Intuit offer paths less traveled. Solutions Through Horses, led by Dr. Tufia Steidle, blends the therapeutic presence of horses with the guidance of a seasoned psychologist, while Walk Intuit integrates a nonprofit model with trauma therapy and spiritual healing, emphasizing community and family involvement.

Circle TLC Ranch and Ivey Ranch Park Association provide therapeutic riding with a focus on accessibility and community integration. Circle TLC Ranch, as a non-profit, offers scholarships and grants, ensuring their programs are available to those in need, while Ivey Ranch Park Association serves as a communal hub, welcoming both disabled and able-bodied individuals.

Ride Above Disability and BrightQuest Treatment Centers round out the landscape with their own distinctive models. Ride Above Disability hones in on the therapeutic benefits of horseback riding for people with disabilities, fostering independence and joy. BrightQuest Treatment Centers, on the other hand, extend their services to those with complex psychiatric disorders, providing a therapeutic community that encourages connection, family participation, and independent living.

From the luxury retreats to the community-oriented nonprofits, the Equine Therapy Companies industry is rich with options tailored to diverse needs and preferences. Clients looking to invest in these services should consider the environment they're seeking—be it upscale comfort, community integration, or a spiritually enriching experience. Each company offers a unique combination of equine therapy and additional supportive services, ensuring that there is a therapeutic match for anyone ready to embark on the journey of healing alongside these majestic animals.

Independent Ranking of the Best Equine Therapy Companies

Villa Oasis in San Diego stands as a beacon of hope for those battling drug and alcohol addiction. The company, renowned for its upscale detox and rehab facilities, offers expert medical support, cultivating an environment conducive to personal growth and success. Their approach is anchored in individualized treatment, merging evidence-based methods with various recovery support services in a safe, luxurious setting. The center’s amenities, including a gourmet menu curated by an award-winning personal chef and access to local attractions, further underscore their commitment to holistic healing. With an empathetic and experienced team, Villa Oasis ensures a transformative journey towards sobriety that is as respectful as it is rigorous.

Silver Horse Retreat, nestled in the heart of San Diego, stands out as a cornerstone in the equine therapy industry. Helmed by Sara Fancy, this establishment offers an intriguing blend of events and sessions, all centered around the transformative power of horse interaction. The company's commitment to their craft is evident in their comprehensive online store, which offers a variety of equine-related products. Visitors are encouraged to subscribe to their newsletter, a platform that delivers insightful information about their services and the wider world of equine therapy. Overall, Silver Horse Retreat presents a unique and engaging approach to equine therapy, successfully merging the realms of commerce, education, and therapeutic practice.

Lilac Recovery Center in San Diego sets the bar high for equine therapy companies with its unique blend of luxury and comprehensive care. This premier facility specializes in addiction treatment and mental health services, embedding innovative therapies such as equine therapy into their treatment plans. The center distinguishes itself by offering personalized treatments in a lavish setting, ensuring maximum privacy and efficacy. Its dual focus on substance abuse and mental health means all aspects of a patient's well-being are carefully considered. The center's approach to equine therapy stands out as it provides not just healing, but an opportunity for clients to rediscover themselves amidst San Diego's most elite locales.

NDR Therapeutic Riding is an equine therapy company based in Riverside County, serving a broad region including Orange, San Bernardino, and LA County. They specialize in providing structured and therapeutic horse-related programs for people with disabilities, using certified instructors to ensure a safe, positive learning environment. With options to sponsor a horse or donate to their wishlist fund, NDR offers an inviting platform for supporters to contribute directly to the care of their equine partners. They offer a diverse range of programs including adaptive riding, occupational therapy, and horsemanship, catering to individuals with various challenges such as physical and cognitive limitations. While the company is not based directly in San Diego, their commitment to individualized goals, celebrating achievements, and improving the lives of participants makes them a notable entity in the field of equine therapy.

Solutions Through Horses, based in San Diego, offers an innovative therapeutic approach using equine-assisted psychotherapy. Led by the experienced psychologist Dr. Tufia Steidle, the company provides a unique blend of therapy and self-care practices, empowering clients to break free from personal obstacles and live the life they desire. The service stands out for its integration of horses in therapy, which aids clients in establishing boundaries, implementing self-care, and gaining control of their lives. Although currently full for individual therapy sessions, Dr. Steidle extends her expertise to organizations seeking equine therapy groups or staff development workshops. The company has also adapted to the pandemic landscape by offering virtual therapy, demonstrating a flexible and client-centered approach.

Based in San Juan Capistrano and Orange Park Acres, Walk Intuit is a nonprofit organization that provides a comprehensive range of trauma-informed therapy and healing services. The company stands out with its unique offering of equine therapy, along with individual, family, and group therapy, and alternative healing methods such as sound healing, reiki, and trauma-informed yoga. They also run a weekly teen safe space and organize trauma-informed retreats. Walk Intuit's mission is rooted in community support, as they aim to provide a safe, nurturing space for healing, which is made financially accessible through sliding-scale payments and scholarship opportunities. Their expansive services cater to the needs of diverse clients, with a focus on underserved and vulnerable populations. Their staff is carefully selected and trained, ensuring that every client receives individualized attention and care.

Nestled in the picturesque East County of San Diego, Circle TLC Ranch offers a unique and compelling approach to trauma therapy. Harnessing the profound bond between humans and horses, this non-profit organization provides equine assisted therapy, a method known for its efficacy in healing emotional wounds and building self-esteem. The ranch offers a serene, safe space for individuals of all ages, particularly children, teens, and adult women grappling with trauma, mental health conditions, or everyday stressors. The therapy involves engaging with horses through secure, enjoyable exercises that promote self-awareness and facilitate emotional breakthroughs. The commendable team of compassionate staff and therapeutic horses at Circle TLC Ranch, guided by their mantra "Healing Hearts and Minds Through the Love of Equines", are dedicated to helping clients navigate their emotional journeys and transform their lives.

Ivey Ranch Park Association, a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization based in Oceanside, California, is a beacon of inclusivity in the world of equine therapy. Founded in 1981, the organization’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident in its array of programs that cater to both able-bodied individuals and those with disabilities. The organization offers a wide range of services from therapeutic horse riding to after-school care, serving over 275 individuals a week, the majority of whom have moderate to severe disabilities. Additionally, Ivey Ranch operates an equestrian facility, in-home respite services, and a community garden, further emphasizing their dedication to community integration and self-reliance. The positive testimonials from clients and volunteers alike speak volumes about Ivey Ranch’s impact, making it a standout in the San Diego area's equine therapy community.

Ride Above Disability Therapeutic Riding Center, nestled in Poway, California, is a commendable equine therapy company that provides a unique horseback riding experience to individuals with disabilities. The center follows PATH Intl guidelines, ensuring a safe, fun, and enriching experience for its riders. The strength of Ride Above lies in its team approach and tailored lessons, which not only improve riding skills but also enhance physical, emotional, and cognitive aspects. The center's commitment to transforming lives is evident in the testimonials of delighted parents and volunteers. Furthermore, the company offers multiple ways for the community to get involved, reinforcing its position as a cornerstone in the world of therapeutic riding.

BrightQuest Treatment Centers, headquartered in San Diego, is a leading provider of long-term residential care for adults grappling with complex psychiatric disorders. The center boasts an impressive range of treatment specialties, from thought and trauma disorders to mood and personality disorders. Unique to BrightQuest is their inclusion of equine therapy in their specialized programs, a therapeutic approach that is gaining recognition for its effectiveness in mental health treatment. Their model emphasizes community, family involvement, and fostering independence, thereby addressing the comprehensive needs of their clients. Accreditation by The Joint Commission reinforces BrightQuest's commitment to setting high standards of patient care. Their valued contribution to the mental health landscape, coupled with their innovative approaches, makes them a notable entity in the field of equine therapy providers in San Diego.

We Are Here to Help Your Business

Need help finding the right company? Want to nominate a company for our list? Just tell us your requirements and we will help you!

Call Us Now

Frequently Asked Questions

At Best Equine Therapy Companies, we understand that embarking on the journey of equine therapy can be filled with questions and uncertainties. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive FAQ section to clear up any ambiguities and provide you with the information you need. This is not just a simple attempt to augment your knowledge, but rather a concerted effort to empower you with a clear understanding of the services offered by different equine therapy companies. The aim is to equip you to make informed decisions, alleviate any apprehensions, and ultimately ensure your experience with equine therapy is as beneficial and rewarding as possible.

Who can benefit from equine therapy?
Are there any risks or contraindications associated with equine therapy?

Equine therapy, while largely beneficial, does carry certain inherent risks such as potential for falls or injuries from the large animals involved.

Additionally, individuals with certain medical conditions, including severe allergies to animals, uncontrolled seizures, or certain mental health disorders, may be advised against participating in equine therapy.

Hence, it's pivotal to consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any form of equine therapy.

What qualifications should equine therapy companies have?

Equine therapy companies should ideally possess certifications from recognized bodies such as the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) or Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA).

They should have professionally trained staff, with expertise in psychology, counseling, or psychotherapy, and a deep understanding of horse behavior.

In San Diego, it's beneficial if the company is familiar with local regulations and has strong ties with the local equestrian community.

Always remember to check companies' reviews and references to ensure they maintain high standards of care for both clients and horses.

How is the safety of clients ensured during equine therapy sessions?

Equine therapy companies prioritize client safety by employing trained therapists and equine specialists who are well-versed in handling horses and managing therapy sessions.

These companies implement rigorous safety protocols, which often include the use of protective gear like helmets, close supervision during interactions with the horses, and thorough pre-session briefings about horse behavior.

In San Diego, equine therapy companies are also subject to local regulations and standards that further reinforce safety measures, ensuring that clients participate in a safe, controlled environment during therapy sessions.

How can I tell if an equine therapy company is reputable?

To gauge the credibility of an equine therapy company, look for accreditation by professional organizations such as the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.). Also, consider the company's years of experience, the qualifications of staff, and client testimonials.

In San Diego, reputable companies should also be registered with the San Diego County Equine Association. It's important to conduct thorough research online, or consult unbiased review sites to help make an informed decision.

How long does a typical equine therapy session last?

A typical equine therapy session generally lasts between 45 minutes to an hour, although this can vary depending on the specific needs and treatment plan of the individual.

In San Diego, equine therapy companies may offer flexibility in session times to accommodate the city's diverse population, from veterans to at-risk youth.

It's crucial to consult with each company to understand their approach and session lengths, ensuring a tailored therapeutic experience.

What should I expect in an equine therapy session?

In an equine therapy session, you can anticipate direct interaction with horses including grooming, feeding, and leading a horse guided by a professional therapist.

This form of therapy aims to develop emotional growth, self-awareness, and interpersonal skills.

The structure of sessions varies, depending on the company, but generally includes a blend of talk therapy and experiential activities.

It's important to research various equine therapy companies to find one that aligns with your therapeutic needs and goals.