We maintain separate waitlists for each of our three programs and cannot predict when a spot will open up.

• Adaptive Riding (AR) & Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL): ~130 people
• Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP): ~130 people
• Veterans/First Responders/Active Duty: ~30 people

On a case-by-case basis, we offer single-occurrence group EAL sessions for corporate or other groups looking for team-building opportunities. These sessions do not require our usual waitlist procedure. Read about a group EAL session with us here.

We are a small but mighty, primarily volunteer-driven organization, and the increasing demand for equine-assisted services has led to longer wait times.

We make every attempt to fill spots in the order in which participants sign up. However, placing a new student in a lesson slot requires careful consideration. To ensure each student benefits fully from the experience, we take into account factors such as age, skill level, and personal goals. We also match students with horses that are best suited to their needs. While you may be later on the waitlist, there may be instances where you’re the perfect fit for a group lesson based on availability, compatibility, and schedule.

Yes, but you must complete a separate form for each person.

Yes, but you will need to submit a waitlist form for each program.

Please note: Our program for veterans, active duty, and first responders is exclusive to the individual at this time. Unfortunately, families do not qualify yet, but we are hopeful that will change in the future.

You can reach out to kayla.mckee@healingwithhorsesranch.org to check your position on the waitlist. To ensure our waitlist remains up to date, we’ll check in with you every 90 days to confirm your continued interest.

Healing with Horses Ranch is a vibrant community that is welcoming to all. We encourage getting involved by volunteering or attending events & community workshops.

We are located in Manor, 17 miles east of downtown Austin. Our address is 10014 FM 973, Manor, Texas, 78653.

Yes. We operate year-round with a modified summer schedule to ensure safety.

We offer three core programs for individuals with various challenges: Adaptive Riding, Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL), and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP). We also provide a free program for veterans, active duty, and first responders (excluding families).

We are a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) International Premier Riding Center, offering evidence-based, trauma-informed services led by certified professionals.

PATH Intl. certifies & accredits centers, instructors, and equine specialists according to a set of field-tested standards to ensure the highest levels of safety, ethics, and effectiveness in the equine-assisted services industry. Instructors must complete workshops and pass both written & practical exams to become certified to teach equine-assisted services. Participants and their families can be confident that PATH Intl. member centers & professionals deliver safe & effective programming.

No, prior horse experience is not required.

The key differences between Adaptive Riding, Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL), and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) lie in their goals & focus:

Adaptive Riding: Focuses on teaching riding skills to students with physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges while improving independence & functional life skills.

Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL): An experiential program aimed at developing life skills for educational, professional, and personal growth through activities with horses, helping individuals overcome daily challenges.

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP): One-on-one mental health treatment using the horse as a partner to meet individual treatment goals; provided by a licensed mental health professional & equine specialist. These sessions involve mostly ground-work with the horses. 

Between the cost of the facility, horse care, and instructor pay, it costs us a minimum of $156 to give an Adaptive Riding lesson at Healing with Horses Ranch. We believe in the power of making our services accessible to the community around us. Instead of charging at cost, we automatically give every student a 40% discount, and up to 70%, based on household income. Veterans & first responders ride for free.

Adaptive Riding

Guided by a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI) with volunteer support.

• 1.5 hr  | Semi-Private (Group) | $80 + $2 cc fee
• 1.5 hr  |  Private | $93 + $2 cc fee

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy

Guided by a state-licensed mental health professional (LPC, LCSW, et. al.) with support from either a PATH Intl. Certified Equine Specialist in Mental Health & Learning (ESMHL) or Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI).

• 1 hr | Private | $116 + $3 cc fee (each additional 15 min. +$29)

Equine-Assisted Learning

Guided by a wellness/life coach or educator with support from either a PATH Intl. Certified Equine Specialist in Mental Health & Learning (ESMHL) or Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI), as well as volunteers.

• 1.5 hr  |  Private | $124 + $3 cc fee
• Single-Occurrence Group Rates
  • 2 hr Workshop
    • $750 for up to 5 participants
    • $150 for each additional participant
  • 4 hr Workshop (Half-Day Intensive)
    • $2,000 for up to 5 participants
    • $200 for each additional participant

Yes, scholarship applications are available for enrolled clients.

We accept coverage for services via Casey Family Foundation, Center for Child Protection, DSSW, Flatwater Foundation, Touch of Class, and Children’s Partnership.

Please note: We unfortunately no longer accept YES Waivers, and BCBS Star Kids has terminated their coverage of equine-assisted services. We still encourage you to apply, as you may qualify for financial assistance.

Sessions are held 7 days a week between 8am-7pm, with times depending on the season, instructor, and horse availability.

Please note: Mondays are closed to Adaptive Riding sessions at this time.

We operate on a tuition-based monthly schedule in which all participants have 4 sessions a month (once a week), with the exception of federal holidays. No other options are available at this time. 

Clients keep their spot for as long as they wish to continue.

No, but we ask that parents/guardians check in with the instructor before leaving and return 15 minutes before the session ends for updates.

Students must be at least 4 years old to receive services. Weight limits vary by program.

Clients & volunteers should dress appropriately for outdoor, horse-related activities. This includes but is not limited to: comfortable, closed-toed shoes, and non-revealing (2” wide shoulders, no short shorts), weather-appropriate attire. We encourage use of sunscreen and/or bug spray when appropriate, which we always have available.

No, please leave all animals at home. Even if you have a registered therapy animal, we cannot allow outside animals on the property. We need to ensure the health and safety of our animals, staff, and clients. Though you may encounter dogs at the Ranch, we can assure you that they are vetted, safe, and owned by staff.

Unsupervised children are not allowed. Siblings must be supervised and stay in designated areas.

Our facilities and horses are reserved for clients who are currently receiving services. We offer many other ways to get involved here at the Ranch, including volunteer opportunities and events throughout the year.

Send us a message to arrange a visit if you’re interested in our services. All new students receive a tour of the Ranch when they come for their first lesson.