Therapeutic Lessons

Dustin has been a therapeutic instructor for many years and enjoys coaching riders with a wide variety of challenges. He is certified by the Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association (CanTRA) and is therefore approved to bill the Autism Funding Unit as well as the At-Home Program’s School-Aged Extended Therapies.

The Draders have spent many years supporting individuals with diverse abilities. They have provided respite care for children and adults, and are currently home share providers through Access Resources. In the past, Dustin has worked as a Care Aide in a group home and also as a Behaviour Interventionist.

Instructor Josie is also CanTRA certified, and her calm and consistent manner translates well with students interested in learning about horses, regardless of their skill level. Josie has a solid 10+ year foundation in a variety of English and western disciplines and a particular strength in working with horses on the ground. She owns two mares and appreciates the chance to share with others the fulfillment that she has found in being with horses.

The El Centro approach to therapeutic lessons is to involve the individual as much as possible. Leading, grooming, tacking, and riding are all parts of a regular lesson. The time with the horse is tailored to the needs and abilities of each client.

Our program also boasts some of the best volunteers in the Okanagan! These dedicated and hard-working folks help to keep our riders safe, learning, and having fun.

Fill out our questionnaire to find out if our program is right for you or your loved one.