Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy

Equestrian Facility in Gretna, Nebraska

5(1 reviews)
(402) 359-883010130 S 222nd St, Gretna, NE 68028View on Yelp
Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy - equestrian in Gretna, NE

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5
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About Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy

Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy is located in Gretna, Nebraska, a growing community in Sarpy County southwest of Omaha. With a perfect 5.0 rating, this academy combines horseback riding with occupational therapy and animal assisted therapy, making it one of the most specialized equestrian providers in the region. Therapeutic riding programs serve individuals with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges, and the Gretna area's close proximity to Omaha gives many families convenient access to these services. This isn't a recreational riding barn. It's a place where horses are part of a structured, therapeutic process.

Services

Horseback Riding
Occupational Therapy
Animal Assisted Therapy

Services & Process

The academy's horseback riding program is integrated with therapeutic goals, meaning sessions are designed around each participant's specific needs rather than a general riding curriculum. Occupational therapy through equine activities helps clients work on motor skills, coordination, balance, and sensory processing in a way that traditional clinic settings often can't replicate. Animal assisted therapy uses the human-animal bond to support emotional regulation, social skills, and mental wellness. Each service is delivered by trained staff who understand both horsemanship and therapeutic practice, making the combination genuinely effective.

Service Area

Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy serves Gretna and the surrounding Sarpy County communities, including Papillion, Bellevue, and La Vista. Families from Omaha and the broader metro area regularly travel to Gretna for these specialized services. The academy's unique therapeutic focus draws clients from across eastern Nebraska who can't find equivalent programs closer to home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is therapeutic riding appropriate for?
Therapeutic riding can benefit individuals with a wide range of conditions, including autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, PTSD, Down syndrome, and various physical disabilities. An intake assessment helps determine if the program is a good fit for a specific individual.
Do participants need any riding experience to enroll?
No riding experience is required. Therapeutic riding programs are designed to be accessible to individuals who have never been near a horse before. Safety and comfort are the first priorities.
What is the difference between therapeutic riding and recreational riding?
Therapeutic riding is goal-directed and overseen by certified instructors and therapists who use the horse's movement to address specific physical, cognitive, or emotional outcomes. Recreational riding focuses on enjoyment and skill development without a clinical framework.
Is animal assisted therapy different from the riding program?
Yes, animal assisted therapy may involve interacting with horses on the ground rather than riding, focusing on the relationship between the person and the animal to support therapeutic goals. The two services complement each other but serve different purposes.
How do I get a referral or start the enrollment process?
You can call the academy at (402) 359-8830 to start the conversation. Some participants come through a referral from a physician, therapist, or school, while others reach out directly as families seeking services.
Does insurance cover therapeutic riding or equine occupational therapy?
Coverage varies by plan and provider. Some insurance companies reimburse equine-assisted occupational therapy when it's prescribed by a qualified therapist. It's worth checking with your insurance provider and asking the academy what documentation they can provide.

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