The Edmonton Therapeutic Riding Association is dedicated to enriching lives by fostering meaningful connections between people and horses through compassionate, evidence-based animal-assisted therapy.

Our programs provide compassionate, evidence-informed support for individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including physical and developmental disabilities, PTSD, mental health disorders, neurodivergence, chronic and terminal illness, experiences of abuse, and those from marginalized communities. In addition we work alongside Indigenous communities, integrating animal-assisted therapy with culturally grounded approaches to healing.

We thoughtfully incorporate both horses and miniature horses into our sessions, allowing us to tailor each experience to the participant’s comfort level, goals, and therapeutic needs.

Animal-assisted therapy is a powerful, relationship-based approach that promotes healing through safe, guided interactions with animals. Horses, in particular, are highly attuned to human emotions and respond authentically to nonverbal cues. This makes them exceptional partners in therapy, helping participants build self-awareness, emotional regulation, and trust.

For individuals who have experienced trauma, horses provide immediate, honest feedback without judgment. This creates a unique opportunity to rebuild trust, establish healthy boundaries, and practice safe relational skills. For neurodivergent participants, equine interactions can support sensory processing, focus, and self-regulation in a calming, natural environment.

Beyond clinical outcomes, equine-assisted therapy offers something equally important: connection. The bond formed between participant and animal often becomes a bridge to deeper healing, increased hope, and renewed confidence in one’s ability to navigate life’s challenges.

Our program is grounded in respect, safety, and individualized care, ensuring each participant’s experience is empowering, meaningful, and transformative.

Through safe, inclusive, and supportive equine experiences, we aim to inspire hope, restore dignity, and strengthen the bond between humans, animals, and community.