A Unique Equestrian Experience
Discover the transformative power of our therapeutic riding program, where inclusivity takes center stage. Our weekly riding lessons unfold in a vibrant, integrated community environment, welcoming students of all abilities with open arms. Every lesson is a personalized journey, meticulously crafted to cater to the unique needs of each participant.
Therapeutic Riding
Jodie has first-hand (pardon the pun) knowledge of riding and caring for a horse while being physically limited to the use of one hand. She has combined this experience with her training as a therapeutic riding instructor to provide success and confidence to her students.
Jodie works with and learns from a network of other amputee riders (both upper and lower extremities) to bring back insight on their successes and ideas to her riders.
Thanks to innovations like her own adaptive reins that enable her to ride like a two handed rider students can benefit from properly aligned posture and strengthened core muscles for better posture and balance everyday.
Riding lessons are conducted on a one-on-one basis only. This allows Jodie the opportunity to design a lesson plan with your goals in mind. Each lesson is strategically planned, incorporating all the specific client needs - from learning horse care to riding with a timeframe and budget in mind.
Ground programs are available for those who want the healing benefits of horses but who may not be ready to ride a horse. The ground program enables a person to gain confidence and learn about horses while enabling them to form a bond and connection.
Enrollment Process
Lessons are scheduled by appointment only. Please follow the links / steps below to book an appointment. If you have any questions you can contact Jodie O’Connell-Ponkos at (518) 610-4408 or destinysridetherapeutic@gmail.com.
Participants must complete all necessary paperwork prior to the first lesson.
Why Choose Therapeutic Equestrian Activities?
A horse’s keen abilities matched with your temperament and emotions allows you to:
Discover & learn the therapeutic benefits of horses and horseback riding.
Develop effective communication and establish a relationship between you, the rider, and the horse.
Come to recognize patterns of behaviors that help or hinder your desired results.
Provide an opportunity for insight into your feelings, stresses, and body images that can be associated with physical and emotional challenges.
At our heart, we prioritize inclusivity by carefully selecting horses and equipment that match the individual requirements of every rider. This ensures that each participant is set up for success and empowered to thrive. Join us in creating a space where everyone, regardless of ability, can experience the joy and benefits of therapeutic riding. Embrace the difference, embark on the journey, and ride towards a brighter, inclusive future with us.
What you will gain from this program?
Through this equine assisted experience you will:
A sense of empowerment that supports you to move forward into your life with confidence.
Receive an individualized evaluation & assessment to clarify your goals and activity level.
Learn to groom, tack and ride, based on individual goals and riding experience.
Learn to overcome fears and physical frustrations.
Gain new insights on how to work with your existing strengths & develop skills to support your goals.
What do people say about the program?
" Our daughter Marissa was diagnosed late in life on the Autism Spectrum and with a Sensory Disorder. She loves two things in life and that is dancing and riding…
She was already dancing but my husband and I knew we needed to find a horseback riding program that she could feel comfortable and grow in. I received some information about Jodie Ponkos and the Therapeutic Riding Program she offers. I spoke with my husband and we agreed to give it a try. I made arrangements for a few lessons and my husband and I haven't regretted our decision. Jodie has taught Marissa that everyone has something different about them and that is okay. In the 2+ years she has been riding my husband and I have seen small but significant changes in her confidence, she shrinks a little less when you touch her, and she smiles a little bit more. We believe that is all in part to Jodie. What Jodie teaches her in the riding ring translates to the real world. Marissa is slowly learning that she can sit up straight and stand proud for who she is no matter how different she may be. "
- Charles and Stacy Stokes
"Every lesson with Jodie I accomplish big things and improve my riding skills…
Jodie's attention to detail and tailored lesson plans are the best! Jodie is my favorite riding instructor because I learn something new at every lesson."
- Roxy Wu (age 12) Rider
"I've had the pleasure of working with Jodie as a rider and a parent. She is patient, kind, and thoughtful.
She's an amazing teacher and even more amazing human being. She adapts to different skills, personalities, and physical challenges of each rider. My daughter has had many different riding instructors, and Jodie is her favorite because she really learns technique with Jodie. Everyone should have the opportunity to work with such an amazing and inspiring teacher.
My daughter says “I only want to ride with Jodie”. She says the other lessons can be fun, but she prefers that Jodie pushes her and she really learns from her."
- Rachel Passaretti-Wu (Rider and Parent)
"My impulsive, energetic, walks to the beat of his own drum 5 YO son, went for his very first lesson today with Jodi…
Prior to the lesson, she took the time to really get to know about my son, his behaviors and even me. When we got to the lesson, Jodi had calming, therapeutic music playing and was amazing with re-directing, as my son likes to ask a million questions. She focused on safety first, and that gave me a piece of mind! Mid lesson, you'd think Jax had been riding for months! We will continue to do lessons with, Jodi at Destiny's Ride for sure! Jodi is inspirational!!"
- Krissy Kos (Parent)
"The impact resulting from my participation in Destiny’s Ride therapeutic program cannot be overstated…
Beyond providing basic riding instruction — which should not be discounted and would be of tangible value on its own — are the unanticipated benefits that Jodi and her team instill in riders. Jodi’s program has given me a greater sense of purpose, boosted my confidence, fostered responsibility, promoted connection to animals, their wellbeing and environmental surroundings, and invoked an overall sense of connection. I look forward to continuing my involvement in Destiny’s Ride in the years ahead.”
- B Schaffer (Rider)
"We came to Destiny’s Ride about three years ago, seeking something that could help our daughter, who has a rare chromosome disorder affecting her balance, strength, and cognitive function…
When she first started with Jodie, she had very low muscle tone and was non-verbal. She required two side-walkers just to stay safely on the horse and could only be led around.
Today, she rides independently — with full control of the horse.
The transformation we’ve seen over these three years is nothing short of remarkable. With Jodie’s patient guidance and the support of the Destiny’s Ride program, our daughter has found her voice and gained significant strength and confidence. Beyond just riding, she’s learning real-life skills by helping care for the horses — grooming, cleaning, and even learning responsibility through the daily tasks that come with it.
Destiny’s Ride doesn’t just focus on the physical — they work on the whole person. The growth we've seen in our daughter is more than we ever imagined. We are beyond grateful for what this program has given her — independence, confidence, strength, and joy. There truly are no words big enough to express our appreciation.”