Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding (CATR) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing quality Equine Assisted Services to the community.  Meta Carter and Eileen McGuffie, both accomplished equestrians, founded CATR in 1991. That year, CATR also gained the title of "Premier Accredited Center" through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) We are proud to have maintained our premier accredited status consistently since 1992.

CATR's program began with three students, a volunteer instructor, a few volunteers, and two wonderful horses.  Over several years, CATR operated out of barns in West Ashley, at Rosebank Farms, at Seabrook Equestrian Center, and at Brickhouse Equestrian Center.

In 2004, CATR purchased Brickhouse Equestrian Center and had 12 acres on Johns Island to call home!  In 2009, we greatly expanded our property by acquiring 31 surrounding acres through the Charleston County Green Belt program.

CATR students represent a wide range of ages and abilities, with each student working toward individualized goals throughout their sessions. Instructors develop lesson plans that provide step-by-step skill building to progress toward these goals. Areas of focus often include improving communication, building strength, developing social and emotional regulation, increasing focus, and enhancing sensory integration.

Through learning about horses, caring for them, practicing safe interactions, and riding, students develop and strengthen these important skills. The progress made during weekly lessons extends far beyond the barn, helping students build confidence, independence, and life skills that carry into their everyday lives.

Horses are incredible partners, teachers, and motivators, making each lesson an opportunity for growth and achievement!

Today, CATR employs eight PATH International certified instructors that work together with 150 volunteers to serve over 160 children and adults with disabilities each year.