Programs & Sessions
Unbridled Paths offers equine-assisted therapeutic riding programs designed to support children and adults with special needs through connection, movement, confidence, and compassion. From therapeutic riding sessions and summer camps to community outreach programs and volunteer opportunities, our mission is to create meaningful experiences that positively impact lives throughout Palm Beach County.
Therapeutic Riding Sessions
Our therapeutic riding sessions are led by Nicole Messer, a PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor and are designed to support physical, emotional, cognitive, and social growth for children and adults with special needs. Through structured riding activities and meaningful interaction with horses, participants build confidence, balance, communication skills, independence, and connection in a safe and encouraging environment.
Unbridled Paths offers four therapeutic riding sessions throughout the year, serving families across Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, West Palm Beach, and surrounding Palm Beach County communities.
What is Therapeutic Riding?
A physical, cognitive, or emotional special need does not limit a person from interacting with horses. In fact, such interactions have proven to have major physical and emotional impacts.
Equine based therapy has been shown to improve the quality of life for those experiencing physical and developmental disabilities, as well as those experiencing delays in physical and intellectual development. These in-capacities can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. Our goal is that our equine assisted activities would help participants rehabilitate their mind and body while interacting and caring for the horses.
All of our classes are taught by PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding instructors. Which means we follow rigorous standards, credentials and constant continuing education as we strive to provide the best and most impactful equine assisted therapeutic riding, therapy and therapeutic activities.
Individuals of all ages who participate in Therapeutic Riding can experience physical and emotional rewards:
Riding a horse moves the rider’s body in a manner similar to a human gait, so riders with physical needs often show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength.
For individuals with emotional challenges, the unique relationship formed with the horse can lead to increased confidence, patience, and self-esteem.
Partnering with equines also provides recreational opportunities for individuals to enjoy the outdoors as well as take pleasure in the interaction with animals and other participants.
Physical Benefits
Improved balance, strength, range of motion
Improved coordination/motor skills, faster reflex
Improved respiration/circulation
Sensory integration
Psychological Benefits
Sense of well-being
Improved self-confidence
Improved risk-management abilities
Emotional control, self-discipline
Social Benefits
Friendship
Interaction with others, animals, nature
Development of respect for animals
Improved social skills (one-on-one/group)
Educational Benefits
Proven to increase remedial reading, math and science skills
Greater listening skills and focus
Sequencing, patterning, motor planning skills
Visual and spatial perception/differentiation
Improved eye-hand coordination
Summer Camp Programs
Our Summer Camp Programs provide children with a fun, hands-on farm experience centered around horses, nature, creativity, and confidence building. Campers enjoy activities such as horse grooming, riding demonstrations, gardening, arts and crafts, farm exploration, and interactive learning experiences designed to encourage teamwork, responsibility, and connection.
At Unbridled Paths, summer camp is more than just a camp experience it is an opportunity for children to build confidence, create friendships, explore the outdoors, and experience the joy and healing connection between horses and people in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Minis on the Move (Comming Soon)
Minis on the Move is a community outreach program created to bring joy, comfort, and meaningful connection through visits with miniature horses. This special program is designed to serve seniors, assisted living communities, hospice programs, and individuals who may benefit from the calming and emotional connection horses naturally provide.
Through gentle interaction, smiles, and shared moments, Minis on the Move helps create uplifting experiences that encourage emotional wellness, companionship, and community connection beyond the farm.
Private Lessons
Unbridled Paths also offers private riding lessons designed to provide individualized instruction in a supportive and encouraging environment. Private lessons allow riders to progress at their own pace while building confidence, horsemanship skills, balance, coordination, and connection with the horse through one-on-one guidance.
These sessions are ideal for riders who may benefit from personalized attention, flexible scheduling, or focused skill development while continuing to experience the emotional and physical benefits of equine-assisted activities.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers are an important part of the Unbridled Paths family and help make our programs possible. From side walkers and horse leaders to barn support and event volunteers, our volunteer team plays a meaningful role in creating a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment for riders and families.
Whether you have horse experience or simply a heart for helping others, volunteering at Unbridled Paths is a rewarding opportunity to build community, make a difference, and positively impact the lives of children and adults with special needs.
A Program You Can Trust
At Unbridled Paths, safety, compassion, and professionalism are at the heart of everything we do. Our equine-assisted therapeutic riding programs are led by PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors in a supportive, faith-based environment designed to help children and adults with special needs grow with confidence.
We proudly serve families throughout Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, West Palm Beach, and surrounding Palm Beach County communities. With trained volunteers, carefully selected therapy horses, and a commitment to creating meaningful experiences, Unbridled Paths provides a welcoming environment where riders and families feel supported, encouraged, and valued.
Testimonials
“When Shane first came to Unbridled Paths, he was afraid of animals. Even being near them felt overwhelming. But through patience, kindness, and the connection with his horse, we watched him grow in ways we never expected. His confidence has blossomed, and now he looks forward to coming every week. This program has been life-changing for our family.”
— Shane’s Family
Scholarships & Financial Assistance
Unbridled Paths is committed to making equine-assisted therapeutic riding accessible to families throughout Palm Beach County. Through scholarship opportunities, community support, Circle of Hope donations, and programs such as Step Up For Students, we work to help individuals with special needs participate in therapeutic riding regardless of financial circumstances.
Our goal is to ensure that no rider is left behind and that every rider has the opportunity to experience the confidence, connection, and healing benefits that horses can provide in a safe and supportive environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do riders need horse experience?
No previous horse experience is required. Our programs are designed to provide a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment for riders of all experience levels.
Who can participate in therapeutic riding sessions?
Unbridled Paths serves children and adults with special needs through equine-assisted therapeutic riding programs tailored to individual abilities and goals.
Are scholarships or financial assistance available?
Yes. Through Circle of Hope donations, community support, and programs such as Step Up For Students, scholarship opportunities may be available for qualifying families.
What should riders wear?
Participants should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes appropriate for outdoor farm activities.
Can family members watch lessons?
Yes. Families are welcome to observe and support riders during scheduled sessions.
How do I get started?
Simply complete the registration inquiry form below and a member of our team will contact you with additional information about scheduling, availability, and next steps.
Register for Fall Session 2026
Registration for Fall Session 2026 is now open. Unbridled Paths welcomes children and adults with special needs to participate in equine-assisted therapeutic riding programs designed to build confidence, connection, growth, and joy in a safe and encouraging environment.
Spaces are limited and sessions fill quickly. We invite families throughout Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, West Palm Beach, and surrounding Palm Beach County communities to complete the registration inquiry form below to learn more about upcoming sessions and availability.
What is Therapeutic Riding and what are the Benefits?
A physical, cognitive, or emotional special need does not limit a person from interacting with horses. In fact, such interactions have proven to have major physical and emotional impacts.
Equine based therapy has been shown to improve the quality of life for those experiencing physical and developmental disabilities, as well as those experiencing delays in physical and intellectual development. These in-capacities can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. Our goal is that our equine assisted activities would help participants rehabilitate their mind and body while interacting and caring for the horses.
All of our classes are taught by PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding instructors. Which means we follow rigorous standards, credentials and constant continuing education as we strive to provide the best and most impactful equine assisted therapeutic riding, therapy and therapeutic activities.
Individuals of all ages who participate in Therapeutic Riding can experience physical and emotional rewards:
Riding a horse moves the rider’s body in a manner similar to a human gait, so riders with physical needs often show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength.
For individuals with emotional challenges, the unique relationship formed with the horse can lead to increased confidence, patience, and self-esteem.
Partnering with equines also provides recreational opportunities for individuals to enjoy the outdoors as well as take pleasure in the interaction with animals and other participants.
Physical Benefits
Improved balance, strength, range of motion
Improved coordination/motor skills, faster reflex
Improved respiration/circulation
Sensory integration
Psychological Benefits
Sense of well-being
Improved self-confidence
Improved risk-management abilities
Emotional control, self-discipline
Social Benefits
Friendship
Interaction with others, animals, nature
Development of respect for animals
Improved social skills (one-on-one/group)
Educational Benefits
Proven to increase remedial reading, math and science skills
Greater listening skills and focus
Sequencing, patterning, motor planning skills
Visual and spatial perception/differentiation
Improved eye-hand coordination