Back Bay Therapeutic Riding Club
Healing Through Horses
Empowering body, mind, and spirit through the power of the horse.
Our Mission
“It all began with a dream - and the gift of a mustang and a home where miracles could happen.”
Back Bay TRC is dedicated to providing therapeutic riding lessons, Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL), and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy & Therapy (EAPT), along with other horse-based activities designed to nurture the body, mind, and spirit of individuals with physical and mental special needs. Our mission is grounded in offering a forever home to our herd of rescued, donated, or abandoned horses. Over the past 20 years, we’ve built hundreds of transformative relationships between horses, students, and volunteers - each one a miracle in motion.
Why Our Work Matters
In today’s world, it’s more important than ever for young people to be part of something real - something that connects them to life, nature, and purpose. At BBTRC, teens and children learn responsibility, compassion, and confidence through hands-on interaction with horses and individuals with special needs. Instead of spending hours on social media, they experience true connection - building relationships that heal loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Our barn has become a place of hope, belonging, and healing for all who enter.
Be part of the miracle. Help us change lives - one ride at a time.
About Us
We are a 501 (c) 3, non-profit organization and a proud member of PATH, Intl., the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship. Our specialized staff consists of certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors and Equine Specialists in Mental Health & Learning (EAGALA certified). The Back Bay Therapeutic Riding Club is committed to the special needs community of Newport Beach as a resource and an inspiration. Our trained volunteers and dedicated staff are committed to challenging each rider as they strive to achieve their individual goals. BBTRC has worked with over 1,000 volunteers, served 600+ individuals with special needs, and hosted many OT students for their first fieldwork experiences. The center has rescued numerous horses and many other animals, all living long and happy lives through love and care.
Therapeutic riding strengthens the mind, body, and spirit.
Therapeutic riding provides physical, cognitive and psychological benefits that help to improve balance, joint mobility, coordination, muscle tone, posture, socialization and communication.
The Students
We address various disabilities, both mental and physical, with each rider's needs being approached on an individual basis.
The Volunteers
There are numerous volunteer opportunities available. Equine knowledge is a plus yet no prior experience is necessary.
