Our Services

Programming

At CKRH, we are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and well-being of individuals with physical, cognitive, emotional, and social needs through transformative equine-assisted activities. Our programs are led by a team of highly skilled PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors (CTRIs), who prioritize both safety and meaningful impact in every session. We proudly serve individuals across the lifespan, welcoming participants from all backgrounds to experience the unique and healing connection with our equine partners.

Want to discover how our programs could make a difference for you or a loved one? Connect with our Client Relations Manager to learn more!

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Program Cost

Session fees are billed in full at the start of each riding session. Participants may choose to pay the total amount up front, or divide payments into weekly or monthly installments. The cost for Therapeutic Riding is $35 per 30-minute lesson. While the true cost of each lesson exceeds $100, CKRH provides services at this significantly reduced rate so that every participant is supported by an automatic scholarship.

Age Requirements

Riders must be a minimum of 5 years of age to participate in equine-assisted services at CKRH.

Rider Weight Policy

The safety of our participants and the well-being of our horses guide everything we do at CKRH. For mounted lessons, balanced riders may weigh up to 200 lbs, while unbalanced riders may weigh up to 150 lbs. These limits are based on veterinary input, equipment weight, and careful observation of each horse’s comfort and ability.

Because we value every participant, those who cannot ride are invited to take part in our unmounted equine programs, which provide meaningful opportunities for growth, connection, and healing alongside our horses.

Contraindications

At CKRH, safety is our top priority. Every participant is carefully evaluated before being accepted into the program, as there are precautions and contraindications associated with each disability. Our governing body, the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.), provides research-based guidelines to ensure that therapeutic riding is a safe, effective, and enjoyable experience for all who are eligible.

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Therapeutic Riding

Therapeutic Riding harnesses the healing power of horses to enhance overall well-being. Through mounted activities and ground-based horsemanship, participants improve balance, coordination, and motor skills while benefiting from sensory stimulation and social connection. Working with horses also builds problem-solving skills, confidence, and communication in a way that cannot be replicated elsewhere. Many participants experience reduced stress and anxiety, along with greater focus, comfort, and empathetic listening.

Minis & Me

Not quite ready to ride? Minis & Me is a group-style groundwork and horsemanship program geared toward participants with mental health and learning disabilities. This non-mounted program is designed to progress horsemanship skills on the ground while improving the participant’s self-esteem and confidence, problem-solving, sequencing, and gross and fine motor skills.

Equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP)

EAP offers individuals a unique and effective approach to addressing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. Through activities like grooming, leading, and interacting with horses, participants can gain valuable insights, develop new coping strategies, and build emotional resilience. Sessions are facilitated by a Clinical Counselor in Training and a Clinical Social Worker in Training, both working under the supervision of a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

Register for CKRH’s EAP program HERE.

Military Programming

CKRH is honored to serve veterans, active-duty service members, and their families through equine-assisted programs that promote resilience, emotional well-being, and successful transitions. In partnership with the Kentucky National Guard, Camp Brown Bear, and the Wounded Warrior Project*, our services address challenges such as PTSD, substance use, suicidal ideation, post-deployment anxiety, and reintegration into civilian life.

*Registered Wounded Warriors through the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) are eligible to participate in 10 sessions at no cost. Getting started is simple! First, register with the Wounded Warrior Project. After completing your registration, request a referral from the WWP to a PATH Premier Accredited Center like CKRH.

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Prison Programming

In partnership with the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the prison psychologist, CKRH’s Stable Foundations program offers non-mounted, equine-assisted activities as part of an emotional regulation course for women in custody. Participants work closely with horses on the ground, learning responsibility, communication, problem-solving, and coping skills in a safe and supportive environment. By fostering personal growth and positive connections, the program aims to support successful reentry and reduce recidivism.

The Stables

The Stables is an alternative curriculum in partnership with Fayette County Public Schools, serving students grades 8–12 who are not thriving in traditional classrooms. Students engage in core academic subjects alongside equine science, a program that blends horsemanship skills, equine management, and life skills.

Mobile outreach

Minis on the Move

Minis on the Move takes our services on the road to visit individuals in nursing homes or daycares who need a “mini” pick-me-up but might be unable to participate in services at CKRH. Visits are facilitated by certified instructors and two of CKRH’s miniature horses. Participants enjoy grooming, playing games, and one-on-one interactions with our horses. Interested in scheduling a Minis on the Move visit? Contact programmgr@ckrh.org.

Summer camps

HorseAbility

HorseAbility is supported through a collaboration with Easterseals Bluegrass. This summer camp program is for younger clients whose needs generally prohibit them from participating in a traditional camp setting. The month-long day camp is staffed by certified instructors and registered medical staff and combines traditional day camp activities with Therapeutic Riding. A typical day might include practicing posture and balance on their favorite therapy horse, a nature hike on the sensory trail, arts and crafts, sing-alongs, or bathing miniature horses.

Eligibility for our programs is determined by the presence of a physical, behavioral, cognitive, psychosocial, or learning-related diagnosis. Our success lies in harnessing the transformative power of the horse to enhance function and foster meaningful engagement. Through tailored adaptations and modifications, our skilled instructional staff guide participants in developing riding and horsemanship skills, ensuring every client meets their goals.