Business Details
18 Years
experience
Therapeutic Riding & Equine-Assisted Programs in Naugatuck, CT
Hidden Acres Farm was founded in 2008 with a vision to transform a historic family farm into a sanctuary for healing and personal growth. Over 17 years, we served thousands of individuals across Connecticut and neighboring states through equine-assisted therapy, fostering connections between people, nature, and horses. Our mission centered on creating a nurturing environment where participants could discover their potential, build confidence, and experience emotional and physical wellness. Led by experienced professionals, including certified instructors and PATH Intl.-accredited staff, we prioritized safety, inclusivity, and tailored care for all.Our programs, such as therapeutic riding and unmounted learning, addressed diverse needs, from mental wellness to physical therapy, while emphasizing the transformative power of the human-animal bond. Despite closing in 2025 due to rising operational costs, we remain proud of the profound impact our programs had on countless lives.
Services
Therapeutic Riding
Unmounted Learning
Specialty Programs
Mental Wellness
Physical Therapy
Confidence Building
Social Connection
Emotional Growth
Stress Relief
Skill Development
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We offer 100+ years of combined experience in equine-assisted therapy.
- Our team includes certified instructors and PATH Intl.-accredited professionals.
- We are a Premier Accredited PATH Intl. Center.
- We provide tailored programs for individual needs and abilities.
- Our programs emphasize veteran and caregiver-focused support.
Associations and certifications
- PATH Intl.
What people say
Transformative experience
Compassionate care
Healing power
Positive impact
Meaningful connections
Services
Therapeutic Riding
Therapeutic riding combines horseback riding with tailored techniques to enhance physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Certified instructors customize sessions to individual goals, fostering confidence, balance, and connection through equine interaction.
Unmounted Learning
Unmounted learning focuses on non-riding equine interactions to build trust, communication, and self-awareness. These hands-on activities promote emotional growth, confidence, and interpersonal skills through guided horse care and teamwork exercises.
Specialty Programs
Specialty programs integrate equine-assisted activities with personalized goals for individuals or groups. These sessions address unique needs, such as veteran support or disability-focused care, fostering holistic development and transformative experiences.
Mental Wellness
Mental wellness programs use equine therapy to reduce stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges. Participants develop coping strategies, self-esteem, and emotional resilience through structured interactions with horses in a serene natural setting.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy sessions leverage horse movement to improve strength, coordination, and mobility. Tailored exercises enhance motor skills and balance, providing a supportive environment for individuals with physical disabilities or rehabilitation needs.
People
Jeanna Pellino
Program Director, Instructor
Jeanna Pellino leads therapeutic programs with expertise in equine-assisted therapy, focusing on personalized care and transformative experiences for participants of all abilities.
Jill Oron
Development Director
Jill Oron oversees fundraising and community partnerships, ensuring Hidden Acres Farm's mission thrives through donor engagement and strategic growth initiatives.
Tre Kehoe
Equine Coordinator
Tre Kehoe manages equine care and training, ensuring horses are prepared to support therapeutic programs with safety and compassion.
Kelly Tanner
Program Coordinator, LCSW
Kelly Tanner coordinates programs and provides clinical oversight, integrating social work expertise to enhance participant emotional and mental health outcomes.
Nancy Moore
Barn Manager, Instructor
Nancy Moore manages barn operations and instructs sessions, combining equine expertise with therapeutic techniques to support participant growth and safety.
Questions
What is therapeutic riding?
Therapeutic riding uses horseback riding to improve physical strength, balance, and emotional well-being through personalized sessions with certified instructors.
Who can participate in therapeutic riding?
Children and adults with physical, developmental, or emotional challenges can join, with programs tailored to individual needs and abilities.
What are the benefits of equine-assisted therapy?
Benefits include enhanced mental wellness, physical therapy, confidence building, social connection, and stress relief through structured horse interactions.
How do I apply for a program?
Apply by contacting us directly or completing the application form on our website to begin your therapeutic journey.
What should I wear for a session?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes with a low heel for safety during equine activities.
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