Our Mission
Young Hearts Therapeutic Riding is dedicated to providing individualized therapy for riders of all ages and abilities through powerful equine connections.
Welcome to Young Hearts Therapeutic Riding
Young Hearts Therapeutic Riding is a place where individuals of all ages and abilities can work to strengthen their physical, emotional, cognitive, and social skills through connection with horses.
We are certified for riders with special needs, but offer classes, activities, and events for fully independent riders as well. We currently serve dozens of clients from the local area and have a staff of multiple full-time therapy horses and trained volunteers.
What We Do
We meet our clients where they are!
Our services include:
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Personalized lessons in private or group settings
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Instruction on riding skills and horsemanship
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Ground work including haltering, grooming, tacking, and feeding
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Educational games and activities
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Assistance from trained volunteers
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All-day events and camps for riders and their families
In partnership with Circle Creek Therapy, we also offer:
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Speech Therapy on horseback
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Occupational Therapy on horseback
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Physical Therapy on horseback
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Behavorial Health on horseback
After you have printed and completed the forms, please email to schedule the initial evaluation. This evaluation is a 20-30 minute session where you will meet the instructor, visit the facilities, and discuss additional goals. Lessons can not be scheduled until after the initial evaluation has been completed and all paperwork is returned in hard copy.
Our Facility
We are located on 5 acres in beautiful Lake Tapps, Washington. Our facility has both indoor and outdoor arenas with stalls, paddocks and pastures for our horses. All lessons are led by a certified instructor from the PATH program. (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship)
“As a parent of a special needs kid, let me tell you that it is such a joy and relief to work with Kristin. She treats our child with such love and compassion and she always makes her feel welcome. It’s an added bonus that she’s able to incorporate speech therapy services with equine therapy services to suit our child’s ever-changing needs. We feel so fortunate to be included in this fun and friendly all-inclusive program.”
- Gina, Young Hearts Parent
"Our daughter has been riding with Kristin for four years. It has been amazing to see her grow in confidence and strength on such a large animal. Kristin provides a safe place for Mary to learn, explore, and expand her skills, both on and off the horse."
- Andrea, Young Hearts Parent
“ When Charlotte first started riding, she would not hold herself up on the horse, so Kristin had to ride behind her. Over many sessions, she slowly became more comfortable due to the kind horses and helpful volunteers. There have been leaps and bounds for her throughout these years from increasing her language, gaining strength and balance, and overall independence. She looks forward to coming to see Kristin and the horses.”
- Karen, Young Hearts Parent
Our Vision
Young Hearts, in partnership with our community, empowers individuals’ physical, emotional, cognitive, social, and overall communication skills through connections between horses and humans.
We effectively serve our diverse community by providing opportunities for social engagement, friendship, outdoor experiences, and creative activities in a safe and supportive environment.