Business Details
20 Years
experience
Therapeutic Riding Programs for All Abilities
One Step Closer Therapeutic Horsemanship is an award-winning, Premier Accredited adaptive horseback riding program dedicated to helping participants achieve their full physical, emotional, and spiritual potential. Founded in 2006, we specialize in equine-assisted therapy for individuals with disabilities and U.S. Military Veterans, offering personalized lesson plans tailored to each rider's developmental goals. Our PATH International certified instructors lead sessions year-round, focusing on improving flexibility, balance, muscle strength, and social skills. The program serves hundreds of participants annually, supported by a team of trained volunteers and a herd of therapy horses. Our approach combines natural horsemanship techniques with therapeutic riding to foster trust, leadership, and emotional growth.We maintain partnerships with local communities and organizations to ensure accessibility through partial scholarships and affordable tuition. Recognized as the 2020 Non-Profit of the Year by the Morgan Hill Chamber of Commerce, we prioritize safety, professionalism, and measurable outcomes. Our facility in Morgan Hill, CA, provides a welcoming environment where participants experience transformative relationships with horses. Testimonials highlight significant improvements in confidence, focus, and physical coordination among riders. We remain committed to expanding our impact while upholding the highest standards of care and service.
Services
Adaptive Riding Program
Equine-Assisted Therapy
Veterans Program
School Readiness Program
G.R.I.T. Womens Group
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We are Premier Accredited by PATH International with certified instructors.
- Our program serves participants with diverse disabilities, including autism and cerebral palsy.
- We offer personalized lesson plans tailored to individual developmental goals.
- Recognized as 2020 Non-Profit of the Year by Morgan Hill Chamber of Commerce.
- Our therapy horses and natural horsemanship techniques foster emotional growth.
Associations and certifications
- PATH International
What people say
Increased happiness
Improved social development
Miracle progress
Stronger body awareness
Positive focus
Services
Adaptive Riding Program
Personalized horseback riding lessons for individuals with disabilities. Sessions improve physical strength, balance, and emotional well-being through structured equine interactions. PATH-certified instructors design weekly 1-hour lessons tailored to individual goals.
Equine-Assisted Therapy
Structured equine interactions addressing physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges. Activities develop communication skills, trust, and leadership through natural horsemanship techniques. Targets conditions like autism, cerebral palsy, and PTSD in veterans.
Veterans Program
Specialized therapy sessions for U.S. Military Veterans. Combines riding and horsemanship to address trauma recovery, emotional regulation, and social reintegration. $750 covers a 10-week session for participating veterans.
School Readiness Program
Early intervention program using equine activities to develop motor skills and social readiness. Focuses on coordination, confidence, and structured learning environments for children with developmental delays.
G.R.I.T. Womens Group
Equine-facilitated program building resilience and leadership skills for women. Activities emphasize emotional fitness, communication, and overcoming challenges through horse partnerships.
Questions
What therapeutic services do you offer?
We provide adaptive riding and equine-assisted therapy for individuals with disabilities and veterans.
How do I enroll in the program?
Download the Rider/Parent Handbook, complete forms, and contact us to schedule a meeting.
Are volunteer opportunities available?
Yes! We offer diverse volunteer roles with required training and minimum 20-hour commitments.
What funding options exist?
Partial scholarships available; 80% of operating costs covered by donations and fundraising.
How are therapy sessions structured?
Weekly 1-hour lessons in individual or small groups, organized into seasonal 10-week sessions.
Videos
Reviews (4)
David Crockett
Jul 30, 2021
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Was learning to volunteer and help vets with P.T.S.D. here. Mark and Landa are great people and their riding therapy program for children with learning disabilities is magnificent. On Fridays they cater to the vets. Horses are just about the most therapeutic animals there are.
Andrew Ulanowski
Nov 29, 2019
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Kind and compassionate staff and volunteers combined with equine therapy allows for growth and development. I really enjoy being there and only wish I could go more often.
Michael Glantz
Jul 15, 2019
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I have witnessed a positive transformation and improvement in those participating in the program. Landa and Mark Keirstead are devoted to serving!
Lilian Leung
Sep 24, 2018
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Great place for my son. He has been riding at One Step Closer for over a decade. One of the most caring people I know. The volunteers are superb!
