Maryland Therapeutic Riding Inc

 "I couldn’t believe that after each lesson, his  speech had become better and better. I wasn’t expecting his speech to be  impacted, but it was indeed! One thing is certain, when the riders are on their horse; the whole world is brighter for  them. I’ve seen the smiles, and shared the stories...it is truly a place  where healing is taking place ." —An excerpt from a  testimonial from a rider's mom

 

Located on a beautiful 25 acre farm in Crownsville, Maryland, MTR is a place of serenity and healing for hundreds of Maryland families. Founded in 1996, MTR has grown into an award-winning therapeutic horseback riding premier center and is accredited by the distinguished Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH.) We are one of only seven premier programs in Maryland and are in the top 30% of all Therapeutic Riding facilities in the country. Our staff is composed of college accredited professionals excelling in therapeutic riding, equine, and nonprofit management. Our specially trained horses are gentle beings, and we boast of having the most amazing and dedicated volunteers in the area. MTR has earned a reputation of excellence, most recently as the 2011 Nonprofit of the Year  awarded by the Annapolis and Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce. The nominating committee acknowledged MTR’s long-term service to the citizens of Maryland.  

 

What we do

MTR provides positive life-changing experiences that empower the mind, strengthen the body, and lift the human spirit. The impact of what we do takes place while connecting the physical, psychological, and spiritual aspects of working and bonding with horses in the natural setting of our farm. The culmination of horse and rider promotes valuable learning and healing that creates a positive experience and improves quality of life. We offer two equine assisted programs:
 

Equine Assisted Activities Therapeutic Riding focuses on teaching riding skills to participants with physical, cognitive and/or emotional disabilities. PATH International Certified Instructors teach riding skills with the ultimate goal of independent riding. This empowers the rider with increased muscle tone and strength, improves coordination, boosts self-confidence, develops memory and increases their ability to follow directions and enhances quality of life.
Equine Learning utilizes horsemanship lessons to those interested in learning skills related to horse health and care, handling, barn maintenance, and equine body language. This program allows participants to form a unique bond with horses by learning how to communicate and work with them on the ground versus riding.  
 

Equine Assisted Therapy Hippotherapy is a physical, occupational, or speech and language therapy treatment that takes place while riding. Licensed therapists utilize the three dimensional movement of the horse to improve neurological function, sensory processing, and physical conditioning.

Whom we serve

From ages 2 to 82, MTR works with children and adults with a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional challenges. Some of these challenges include: Autism; brain injury; cancer; cerebral palsy; developmental delays; Down’s Syndrome; multiple sclerosis; post-traumatic stress disorder; as well as many other illnesses. Military Veterans and wounded active duty soldiers ride free of charge. This service is a gift that MTR is honored to offer the brave men and women who have protected our country. The positive impact of our work is felt by everyone associated with MTR—riders, families, friends and volunteers. Everyone shares in the immeasurable benefits of working with horses, helping others, and being a part of our MTR family.