A small program in Seal Rock is quietly changing the lives of people on the autism spectrum with calm, steady horses.
Founded by Marla Bowman, Reach For The Stars provides therapeutic horsemanship for people with autism and other physical and developmental needs. Funded by community-raised funds and donations, the program is based on a simple idea: connection, patience, and the right environment can help people grow in ways that feel organic and empowering.
Participants, many of whom are on the autism spectrum, range from young children to older adults. They attend weekly sessions that go far beyond horseback riding.
They groom and feed the horses, help care for the barn, and take part in structured but flexible activities. These routines can feel especially supportive for autistic individuals, offering a sense of predictability while gently encouraging new skills.
In this setting, progress often happens quietly. Participants build communication skills, emotional regulation, and physical coordination at their own pace. For some, even small steps like giving a simple command or making eye contact can be meaningful.
Horses serve a unique function in this process. Their calm, nonverbal nature may make them easier to relate to than people. This is true for some individuals on the spectrum. Horses don’t work the same way; they communicate with tone, movement, and energy — so a natural space where something feels like communication without overwhelming language works well for individuals with ASD.
Spending time around horses helps to calm anxiety and create a relaxed mindset. This can be especially advantageous for autistic people. It can be a grounding and centering experience as the repetitive rhythm of riding and the quiet force of the horse provide another space to exist in.
Building Confidence and Skills
Bowman, a certified therapeutic riding instructor with years of experience, created the program to eliminate barriers to care. Participants should not incur any out-of-pocket costs. The program is supported solely by donations, grants, and any available insurance, making it a resource for families who might otherwise have difficulty finding specialists.
Volunteers are a key part of the program, assisting with horse care and supporting participants during sessions. No special experience is required, just patience, kindness, and a willingness to learn. This sense of community helps create a welcoming and understanding environment.
The horses themselves are carefully chosen for their calm and steady temperaments. They help participants feel safe and supported. Activities include riding lessons, balance exercises, and ground-based work such as grooming and leading. Each activity is designed to build confidence, trust, and independence.
The impact can be profound. One young child on the autism spectrum, who had been nonverbal, began by making small sounds during sessions and eventually learned to say simple words to guide his horse. His therapists noticed increased motivation and progress, even bringing horse-related elements into their sessions.
Reach For The Stars provides something beyond therapy at its very core. It provides a place where autistic people can feel understood without feeling like they’re on the clock. Horses do not criticize, do not hurry. They answer consistently and calmly, giving participants the space to discover and expand in their own way.
There is also a simple lesson in every interaction. Horses are sensitive and aware. Approaching them with calm, steady energy builds trust. For many participants, this carries into everyday life, supporting confidence and connection with others. We post stories like this at Sacramento ABA Therapy because we know there are helpful approaches that can benefit autistic individuals.
Everyone is unique, and the most meaningful improvements happen in environments that feel safe, respectful, and engaging. If you or someone you love needs support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us — we offer compassionate, personalized care. We provide compassion and a commitment to quality every step of the way.
