BCTRA seeks to enhance the lives of horses and people with disabilities by supporting EAS professionals to employ the best therapeutic practices of equine-assisted services. Our members are at the heart of our organization as they provide services in therapeutic riding, para-equestrian, and equine-based mental health, learning and wellness services.
Who We Serve
Our members are Equine Assisted Service providers who have a powerful impact in our communities when partnering with horses.
In 2017 BCTRA conducted a small survey of 24 past membership and were surprized to learn that there was a wide range of activities happening as organizations and individuals partnered with horses for the benefit of others. We counted 155 certified professionals working in therapeutic riding centres around the province and more than 750 volunteers supporting that work. We learned that just over 1,100 riders were receiving the benefits of working with 126 horses in therapeutic, para-equestrian and equine facilitated wellness program.
Because of our findings, our Board of Directors has defined three pillars on which to base our future activities.
- Therapeutic Riding and Hippotherapy
- Para-Equestrian Development
- Equine Assisted Learning, Mental Health or Wellness (EAL-EAP-EFW)
We encourage our members to obtain certification as well as plan for continuing education whether they are instructors, coaches or practitioners. We want all those involved in all horse-partnered professions to work within their scope of practice and adhere to best practices and safe delivery of services for all participants. To find out more about different service areas please contact our committee reps:
Karen Tanchak
Therapeutic Riding and Hippotherapy Committee
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Ashley Sudds
Para-Equestrian Development Committee
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Sharolyn Wandzura
EAL-EAP-EFW Committee
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