Business Details
35 Years
experience
Equine-Assisted Therapy Programs in Boones Mill, VA
Healing Strides of VA has dedicated over three decades to transforming lives through equine-assisted therapies. Established in 1991, we operate on 28 acres featuring state-of-the-art facilities including enclosed and outdoor arenas, specialized therapy spaces, and horse housing. As the only PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center in the Roanoke Valley, our team includes certified therapeutic riding instructors, licensed mental health professionals, and equine specialists.We offer tailored programs for individuals with physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges, veterans, and corporate groups seeking team-building experiences. Our unique approach emphasizes the horse-human connection, fostering resilience and personal growth. With a 30-year track record of measurable outcomes, we combine clinical expertise with compassionate care to serve our community year-round.
Services
Therapeutic Riding
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
Veterans Program
Hippotherapy
Leadership Coaching
Field Trips
Riding Club
Equine Assisted Learning
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of experience in equine-assisted therapies since 1991
- PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center with certified instructors
- Licensed therapists and equine specialists on staff
- Specialized programs for veterans with PTSD and trauma
- Proven outcomes in speech, motor skills, and emotional development
Associations and certifications
- Professional Association of Therapeutic Riding Intl (PATH)
What people say
Progress in speech
Confidence boost
Veteran mental health support
Improved motor skills
Calmer demeanor
Services
Therapeutic Riding
Our PATH-certified instructors guide riders with physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges through structured horseback riding sessions. The rhythmic motion improves core strength, balance, and coordination while building confidence. Participants develop communication skills through horse-human interactions, with measurable progress in motor skills and emotional regulation documented over 30 years of service.
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
Licensed therapists collaborate with equine specialists to address trauma, PTSD, and mental health challenges. Clients engage in ground-based activities with horses to develop coping strategies and emotional awareness. The program follows the ARCH model for veterans and uses Brief Strategic Family Therapy for youth, with documented success in reducing anxiety and improving family dynamics through non-verbal communication.
Veterans Program
Free-of-charge program for veterans addressing PTSD, trauma, and civilian transition challenges. Combines horsemanship training with mental health counseling using the ARCH model. Participants develop leadership skills through drill teams and ground-based activities, with testimonials highlighting reduced symptoms and renewed purpose through structured interactions with therapy horses.
Hippotherapy
Occupational and physical therapists use horseback riding to improve motor function and sensory processing. The horse's movement provides controlled sensory input that enhances core stability and coordination. Children with conditions like Cerebellar Hypoplasia show measurable gains in speech, balance, and fine motor skills, with documented cases of improved independence in daily activities after structured therapy sessions.
Leadership Coaching
Corporate teams develop leadership skills through equine-facilitated exercises that mirror herd dynamics. Participants learn conflict resolution and communication strategies by observing horse behavior patterns. The program tailors experiences to organizational goals, with measurable outcomes in team cohesion and problem-solving skills demonstrated through customized corporate workshops and leadership retreats.
People
Carol Young
CEO
Carol leads Healing Strides with 30+ years of nonprofit management experience. She oversees strategic operations and community partnerships, ensuring program quality and organizational growth.
Daniel Brooks
Clinical Director of MHEC
Daniel directs mental health programs with LCSW credentials and PATH certification. He specializes in trauma-informed care and supervises clinical staff for therapeutic effectiveness.
Margaret Cornwell
Collegiate Coach | CTRI
Margaret coaches equestrian teams and riding clubs with advanced PATH certification. She trains riders from beginners to national competition levels while managing collegiate partnerships.
Betsy Osborne
Director of Programs
Betsy oversees program development and implementation. With expertise in equine-assisted learning, she ensures all services meet PATH accreditation standards and community needs.
Ashley Arney
Director of Development
Ashley manages fundraising and community relations. She secures grants and builds partnerships to sustain and expand therapeutic programs for diverse populations.
Questions
What equine-assisted services do you offer?
We provide therapeutic riding, hippotherapy, equine-assisted psychotherapy, veterans' programs, leadership coaching, and field trips for educational groups.
Are services available for veterans?
Yes, our free veterans' program addresses PTSD and transition challenges using the ARCH model with both mounted and ground-based equine activities.
How can I schedule a facility tour?
Contact us at (540) 334-5825 to arrange a tour of our 28-acre facility, including arenas, therapy spaces, and horse housing.
Do you accept donations?
Yes, we rely on donations to maintain programs. Visit our website to contribute or learn about sponsorship opportunities.
What age groups do programs serve?
Our services range from children aged 6+ to adults, including specialized programs for veterans and corporate teams.
