About Therapeutic Riding of Tuscaloosa
Our mission is to help each individual become the best they can be through interaction with specially trained horses and instructors. It can be summarized in one sentence, “Changing lives, Bit by Bit.”
We serve physically, academically and mentally challenged children and adults as well as non-challenged individuals and their families. We are the first facility in Alabama to be certified by Stable Moments, a program designed to assist foster and adopted children deal with childhood trauma, and the only one in Alabama with a licensed psychologist on staff.
Our Programs
We provide a range of services including
- horseback riding lessons
- a special therapeutic program for combat veterans dealing with PTSD
- therapeutic horseback riding
- competition showing
- equine assisted therapy
- Stable Moments certified intervention for foster and adopted children and their families and children who have experienced trauma
Therapeutic Riding of Tuscaloosa
Where do I start?
Each applicant for services completes an online form telling us about the client and what the goals are. We then schedule an intake session where we get detailed information about the client, the family, and explain our programs.
In the beginning
After the intake session we match the client to a horse and treatment team and schedule regular sessions that are tailored to address your concerns. Most clients start with individual sessions as there is a lot to do and a lot to learn. We find that the one on one attention is important at this stage. Most clients receive an individual mentor who is involved in each session. We create a treatment plan that uses color coded activities to help reach the goal.
As you progress
Many clients need social skills and interactions with a supportive peer group. For those clients that would benefit from this approach, we move the client to a peer group when it becomes appropriate. This decision is based on several factors, all of which are carefully discussed before any changes are made. Regular feedback is provided on progress toward goals and setting new goals. We also ask for regular feedback from you as to how you feel you are progressing.
Parent support
While the client is engaging in the equine assisted work, our psychologist meets with the parents/caregivers to talk about their stressors and come up with effective strategies to address issues at home. These are closely coordinated with the team members who are working with the client/horse so that parents can continue working on the issues at home. Most of our parents really enjoy this time to discuss their own challenges in a supportive environment.
Family involvement
Being with the client for one hour a week won't produce much change. So our team involves various family members in the process, helping families adjust successfully to change. We are also available to coordinate with teachers and other health care providers
Who can benefit
We have treatment programs for individuals learning to live with various physical challenges such as CP. We also have programs for neurocognitive issues such as ADD, ADHD, ASD, learning disabilities and emotional issues, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. We have special programs available to assist youngsters who need to develop critical life skills and those who have been through trauma. We monitor your progress with regular assessments to make sure we are on target and are providing the help you need.
What does it cost?
Dr. Malone is a licensed psychologist, she can work with you and your insurance. Riding lessons, or equine assisted therapies not involving individual psychotherapy are typically not covered by insurance, but we will work with you to afford them. Contact us for the costs of those services.