We are delighted that you are interested in programs at Healing with Horses Ranch. Because of capacity limitations and demand, Healing with Horses Ranch has an unprecedented waitlist.
Due to high demand, we currently have a waitlist for our programs. Please be aware that it could be up to a year or more before we can add you to our schedule. We sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to accommodate everyone.
How it works:
To ensure our waitlist remains up to date, we’ll check in with you every 90 days to confirm your continued interest.
For more details, please check out our Waitlist and Program FAQs below.
Waitlist FAQs
We maintain separate waitlists for each of our 3 programs and cannot predict when a spot will open up.
We are a small but mighty 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 an existing group lesson 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 specific group lesson based on availability, compatibility, and schedule.
Yes, but you must complete a separate form for each person.
Yes, but you need to submit a waitlist form for each program.
Note: The Unbridled Warriors program is exclusive to veterans, active duty, and first responders (families do not qualify at this time).
You can reach out to our Client Coordinator via email to check your position on the waitlist.
Healing with Horses Ranch is a vibrant community that is welcoming to all. We encourage getting involved by volunteering
Program FAQs
In Manor, TX, 17 miles east of downtown Austin.
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, and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy. We also provide a free program (Unbridled Warriors) 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 and 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 and practical exams to become certified to teach equine-assisted services. Participants and their families can be confident that PATH Intl. member centers and professionals deliver safe and 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 and focus:
Adaptive Riding: Focuses on teaching riding skills to students with physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges while improving independence and 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 and equine specialist. These sessions involve mostly ground-work with the horses.
Most new students start at 1.5 hr lessons.
Adaptive Riding
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy
Yes, financial hardship scholarship applications are available for enrolled students.
Between the cost of the facility, horse care, and instructor pay, to give an Adaptive Riding lesson at Healing with Horses Ranch costs us $140. Instead of charging at cost, we automatically give every student a 40% discount, and up to 70%, based on household income. Veterans ride for free.
Yes. We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield Star Kids, Casey Family Foundation, Center for Child Protection, DSSW, Flatwater Foundation, Touch of Class, and Children’s Partnership.
Please note: We no longer accept YES Waivers.
Lessons are held Tuesday – Sunday, 8am – 7pm, with times depending on the season, instructor, and horse availability.
Note: The only exception to these hours are two Unbridled Warrior sessions on Mondays.
Weekly. No bi-weekly or monthly options are available.
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 and 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, they are owned by staff, so we know that they are safe around the horses and vaccinated.
Unsupervised children are not allowed. Siblings must be supervised and stay in designated areas.
No, 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.
We recognize the benefits of equine-assisted activities & therapies and understand the urgency when seeking these services. If you are in a position where you cannot wait for our services, we recommend you reach out to other PATH Intl. (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International) centers providing these life-changing programs.
