Amy gets some help mounting her pony before a lesson at Cornerstone Equitherapy in Napa. (Photo by Elizabeth Warnimont)

A unique equine therapy program for people with special needs has grown significantly since its move from American Canyon a few years ago. In its new space, beautifully situated among active vineyards just off the Napa/Vallejo Highway, Cornerstone Assisted Riding & Equitherapy (CARE) now offers more space and facilities better suited for the horses and the therapy programs.
Students with special physical, social or emotional needs benefit from participation in the program, offered in 10-week sessions throughout the year. Individuals with autism, down syndrome, cerebral palsy and other sensatory and developmental disorders can benefit. Past success stories include clients with extremely limited mobility who have improved their physical abilities dramatically just by the muscle and balance training required to ride the horses; teens with social and emotional struggles who have improved their relationships and performance at school; and those with limited motor skills who have improved hand-eye coordination and balance just by communicating physically with the animals.
“We help our students achieve not only physical strength, but also self assurance, increased willingness to communicate and an overall better quality of life,” says Executive Director Sharon Comisso. “A physical, cognitive or emotional special need does not limit an individual from interacting with equines,” Programs may include ground work, grooming, therapeutic ride and other equine-assisted activities that have proven physical and emotional benefits including improved balance and posture, flexibility, circulation and breathing, patience, and social skills.
CARE has been in operations since 1985. It is an entirely volunteer organization with 501 C3 status. The center and instructors are PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) International Certified. Participants and their families can be confident that trained and qualified professionals deliver safe and effective Equine Assisted Activities and Therapy (EAAT) sessions.
No experience is required in order to get involved, as a student or a volunteer. To learn more, or to schedule an assessment appointment, contact CARE at 1-888-922-7366. Information is also available on the website at carebayarea.org.

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