We are known as the Free Spirit Therapeutic Riding Association or “FSTRA” located in the Annapolis Valley, operating out of our host facility, Rohan Wood Stables. We are a registered charity and believe in providing opportunities and removing barriers for our community. Since our inception in 2012 where we ran a pilot program for 12 participants, we are now currently serving over 120 unique individuals on an annual basis through our traditional therapeutic riding and other programming options. 

We are an accredited centre through the Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association also known as “CanTRA” which is the only national governing body providing certifications, trainings and accreditations to centres like ours across Canada. We are currently the only accredited CanTRA centre in Nova Scotia. This means there are certain standards set by CanTRA, required hours for professional development on an annual basis, trainings and policies we must uphold not only to ensure the safety for our participants but to also implement best practices and maintain our accreditation.

We offer both traditional therapeutic riding lessons through our certified instructors as well as alternative programming for our local schools.

We exist to be one of the leaders of positive development and overall wellness through innovative and inclusive programming

Our values play a critical role through informing our daily programming, interactions and direction:

Community 

Fostering a safe space of community and engagement 

Relationships 

Supporting families and friendships through networking and engagement

Enrichment 

Transforming our community through education, physical literacy and mental wellness

Leaders 

Raising awareness around equine therapies and being recognized as a centre of excellence

Inclusivity 

Advocating for a place of acceptance, diversity and empathy 

To be a barrier free, family focused and forward thinking organization

Since our inception in 2012, it has become apparent for the need for inclusive and accessible programming for the Annapolis Valley. Our Board of Directors and staff are now in the process of re-writing our strategic plan to provide vision for the next 10 years in how we, as a registered charity, and the only certified Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association accredited centre in Nova Scotia can begin to address the need, fill the gaps and provide further support to our families and surrounding communities. This process has already begun as we have partnered with Clannad Counselling and Consulting in Kentville to offer Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, as well provide programming addressing systemic issues facing our youth today.

Rohan Wood Stables was established in 2005 as a business and is located in Aylesford Nova Scotia. They graciously rent us ring space and rent us horses (specially trained for therapeutic riding) to be used in our daily programming. With over 50 horses on property and 4 full time staff, there are multiple programs and opportunities to get involved. For more information about RWS’ programs, boarding, training horses, breeding and competitions, stop in and see the facility and meet the horses, or visit RWS’ website 

Our facility is accessible! Although the driveway is gravel, thanks to the Rick Hansen Barrier Buster Project, there is a paved sidewalk leading from the driveway into the barn (which is all paved) as well as into the indoor riding ring. Additionally, there is a barrier free public washroom thanks to the generous donation of an anonymous donor. The accessible washroom is attached to our office that has a wheelchair ramp into the building. Our riding ring is also equipped with a wheelchair ramp and a wheelchair lift to assist our clients in mounting and dismounting our equine heroes for those who need extra assistance.