Rider FAQ's

Questions about programs at CTRC? We have provided answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. Can't find the answer you are looking for? Contact us at 303-652-9131 for more information.

Q: How does one become a rider in CTRC’s Therapeutic Riding or Hippotherapy program?

The following procedure is used to bring new participants into our programs:

• A Participation Packet is either mailed, emailed or downloaded from our website. The packet includes an application, a consent & release form, a medical form and information about our program.

• Once the Participation Packet is completed and returned to us, we will call you to schedule an evaluation.

• Upon completion of an evaluation and once CTRC determines our ability to safely accommodate the participant, the participant is able to register for upcoming sessions.  

Q. What does it cost to participate?

CTRC operates on a session by session basis. We offer four sessions of Therapeutic Riding and Hippotherapy a year. Sessions can vary in length from 8 to 10 weeks, depending on the time of year. We offer classes Monday – Saturday with varying times.

New Participant Evaluation
The initial evaluation consists of an onsite office visit assessment and a brief introduction to the horse, as well as a mounted riding portion if deemed necessary by the Program Coordinator. All intake forms including CTRC’s medical form and an evaluation are required before a participant is able to register for lessons.
Fee: $45
Time: 45 minutes

Therapeutic Riding
This is the core of our program and combines a participant’s therapeutic, life and horsemanship goals. Groups, usually consisting of 3 to 5 riders, are based on age and ability.
Fee: $350 per 10-week session
Time: 1 hour

Private Therapeutic Riding Lessons
Private lessons offer opportunities to work one on one with an instructor to refine riding skills as well as therapeutic goals; private lessons are sometimes best for those who have difficulty in groups.
Fee: $425 per 10-week session
Time: 30 minutes

Hippotherapy /Therapist Assisted Services
Licensed and certified therapists use the horse as a therapy tool to assist clients in reaching therapeutic goals. This nontraditional therapy is highly motivating.
CTRC Fee: $350 per 10-week session.
Therapists charge an additional $45 /per lesson, paid directly to the therapist.
Time: 30 minutes

Q: Will insurance cover Therapeutic Riding fees? What about Hippotherapy fees?

A great place to start is by talking directly with your healthcare provider as to whether or not your insurance offers reimbursement. Generally, insurance will not cover the fee for therapeutic riding. Hippotherapy may be reimbursed as a percentage since treatment codes used for hippotherapy are PT,OT or SPL. Flexible Spending Accounts, often offered through employers, typically will pay for therapeutic riding and hippotherapy.

**Please note that CTRC will not bill to insurance companies directly, however, any paperwork you need to file a claim will be provided to you.

Q. What’s the difference between Therapeutic Riding and Hippotherapy?

While both activities engage a horse’s dynamic movement to stimulate physical, mental, and emotional growth, each is unique.

Therapeutic Riding at CTRC is taught by a NARHA Certified Instructor, conducted in a group or private setting, and is structured around teaching the riders to control their horse through activities that encourage the development of cognitive, physical and social skills. Group classes are organized according to age, type of disability and level of riding skill.

Hippotherapy is instructed by a licensed speech and language therapist, physical therapist, or occupational therapist , is registered with the American Hippotherapy Association (AHA) and is also a NARHA Certified Instructor. Each rider works one-on-one with the therapist allowing for intensive therapy directed specifically at the rider’s individual needs and goals.

Q. If I want to visit CTRC do I need to make an appointment?

YES!. We do prefer that a site-visit is scheduled. Scheduling a site-visit allows us to arrange one of our staff members to be available to escort you safely around the property and answer all of your questions. We do require all visitors to check in at the main office so if you are just stopping by please check in with us.