What is Winsome?
We offer a variety of therapeutic equine programs for people with physical, emotional, and social challenges in a fun, safe, structured environment. Our instructors are Massachusetts Licensed Riding Instructors who have completed the rigorous process of acquiring their Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors (CTRI) licenses through PATH International. Licensed PATH instructors lead programs that are designed to build muscle-tone, self-esteem, and self-confidence that contribute to improved physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
To showcase distinctive learning elements incorporated at Winsome Riding Academy, we emphasize an individualized approach, tailoring our programs to meet the unique needs of each rider. Below are some features of our riding academy that we would like to highlight.
- Our year-round offerings prioritize not only the development of riding skills but also aim to instill a strong sense of responsibility in caring for our horses.
- We conduct our therapeutic riding programs in a state-of-the-art indoor arena, complemented by outdoor guided trail riding experiences in the Blue Hills Reservation.
- Situated adjacent to our arena, the barn serves as an integral part of our commitment to providing a conducive learning environment for riders.
- With the barn seamlessly integrated into our setup, we create an ideal space for riders to thrive in both their equestrian abilities and horsemanship, irrespective of external conditions
- We provide unmounted programs that introduces horse and students in a safe, structured, educational environment.
The Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.), is a federally-registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit that was formed in 1969 as the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association to promote equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAAT) for individuals with disabilities.
Our Staff
Amy is a highly skilled and experienced horse-riding instructor with an impressive track record of over 40 years of experience. Her passion for sharing the joy of horse riding began early and has shaped her entire career. With a diverse range of students, from beginners to those looking to improve their skills, her extensive experience as a certified trainer for over 30 years has equipped her with the skills needed to teach riders of all levels. Amy holds a certification from the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) International, qualifying her to provide therapeutic horseback riding. She has worked with the Boston Higashi School students for over 20 years providing riding lessons to children of all abilities. Beyond her instructional work, driven by her desire to share her passion for horses, Amy generously donates ponies from her equestrian center for church and inner-city community events. She is committed to helping others find their joy in horse riding!
Summary of Training:
· Certified Mass Instructor
· Licensed PATH Instructor
· Licensed USEF trainer
Andrew graduated from UMASS Amherst with a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering. Driven by his passion for pursuing a career in the therapeutic equine industry, he has transitioned from a skilled computer programmer to an operational manager at Winsome. With his background, he brings a valuable tech-savvy perspective to equestrian management, providing much-needed skills to implement technological solutions and optimize scheduling systems at Winsome. Andrew has been riding for several years, which adds a personal touch to his role as an Program Director. He has a profound understanding of therapeutic riders' needs, enabling him to connect with our riders and their families. When he’s not in the office, you may find him on the trails with his favorite horse Nash!
After dedicating 25 years to academia, Nicola is now generously volunteering her expertise to support our grant writing and fundraising endeavors at Winsome. She is driven to help people with disabilities and individuals with mental health challenges discover the therapeutic benefits of horse riding. With a fondness for equestrian pursuits since her youth, she relishes the memories of hunting and cross-country riding in her native Ireland. With her children grown, she's back in the saddle and enjoys going out on trail rides when time permits!
Katie completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Sciences & Disorders at the University of New Hampshire in 2011 and went to the University of Central Florida to complete her Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology. She worked as a speech-language pathologist in the medical field for 7 years. In 2020 Katie switched fields to work in the public school system as a preschool speech-language pathologist. Katie found her passion evaluating and treating speech and language difficulties related to Receptive and Expressive Language Delays, Apraxia, Down Syndrome and Other Chromosomal Abnormalities, Language-Based Learning Disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and Lack of Verbal Communication including implementation of both low and high-tech AAC devices. She uses a child-led and total communication approach including Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) high and low technology devices in order to make meaningful connections with children. Katie is working with Winsome Riding Academy on creating equine programs that incorporate Augmentative Alternative Communication into the curriculum for children with speech-language difficulties.
