A Special Needs San Miguel de Allende Surprise: Equinoterapia SMA – Equine Therapy SMA

By Pauline Kiely

I was first introduced to Jean at an equestrian horse show in Los López. When she learned that my husband and I were interested in horses, she graciously invited us to visit her facility, EquinoTerapia SMA, at Rancho Ortega, conveniently located near La Luciérnaga, a few kilometers beyond MAC Hospital. What an afternoon well spent as this tranquil setting turned out to be sincerely heartwarming.

It all starts with a spark — an idea that develops into a dream and, after effort, perseverance, a little luck, eventually forms a reality. Jean Gerber, author of Traveling Without Reservations, found herself unexpectedly raising her teenage granddaughter in San Miguel de Allende. Grateful for the opportunity and precious time together, Jean felt a calling to bring horses and children together in a meaningful way. She hoped to create something positive for both her family and the community. Having an affinity with horses most of her life, Jean began brainstorming this nonprofit organization to establish Equinoterapia Sma, A.c. in 2023 — “Small Steps, Big Strides.”

Jean says, “At our ranch, we’re giving horses another job. It’s a win-win — we rescue horses that help rescue people.”

Depending on their age and individual needs, some children ride on the therapy horses while being supported by the certified equine therapist. Others can ride independently as the therapist walks alongside, introducing games, movement activities, and sensory interaction. In most sessions, children ride bareback using a soft pad, allowing them to better experience the warmth, rhythm, and movement of the horse. Each session includes three trained volunteers: one leading the horse and two side walkers supporting the child on either side. Then suddenly it happens — perhaps five minutes into the session — everyone seems to breathe deeper, relax, connect and simply be present in the moment.

This transformative center currently provides equine therapy services to approximately 40 children each week, with many more families hoping to participate as the program grows.  Jean says, “It’s wonderful for us having high school students coming out to volunteer after school.”

Elvis, Napoleon, Silver and Rambo are the therapy horse’s names, and much like the children they work with, each horse has its own unique personality and spirit. Horses and humans have interacted for more than six thousand years. Over time, horses have learned to pay close attention to subtle movements, emotions, and energy. These cognitively complex and highly sensitive animals respond honestly and instinctively to the people around them.

Because horses are prey animals, they are naturally intuitive and highly aware of their surroundings. Therapy horses are especially attuned to human emotions and energy. They detect a human heartbeat from as far as ten feet away. Horses are calming, their rhythmic movement and nonverbal connection can help create a deeply grounding experience for many individuals.   

Through riding and interaction, many children develop improved balance, coordination, posture, confidence, communication skills, and emotional regulation. Parents frequently share that the equine therapy sessions give their children something meaningful to look forward to each week.

Children with autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, anxiety, PTSD, sensory challenges, and social-emotional difficulties are sincerely content while riding the therapy horses. It is such a wonderful experience to witness the natural joy.

Founder and President Jean Gerber is grateful for the leadership team currently supporting this organization: Vice President Jim Kraus, Executive Director Wenda Puzzo, Treasurer Alan Rodriguez, Michael Koen of Niños con Autismo, Clinical and Strategic Advisor Constance Sheehan, Board Member Hope Boland, Program Director and Certified Equine Therapist Lizeth Martinez Montañez, Ranch Manager and Vaquero Gabo Ortega, and an extraordinary group of more than 60 volunteers.

EquinoTerapia SMA deeply appreciates support generated through successful fundraising events and is also grateful for its community partnerships and support from families in San Miguel de Patronato Pro Niños, and the Scholarship Volunteer Program with Instituto Sanmiguelense.

EquinoTerapia SMA at Rancho Ortega is an oasis. This peaceful shaded ranch, located just minutes from La Luciérnaga, offers a place of hope, and connection. Jean and her remarkable team continue to work towards their 2026 goals.

Whether you visit to experience the healing power of horses, volunteer, donate, sponsor a child, or support a therapy horse, know that your generosity brings therapeutic dignity and optimism to children and families who need it most.

For more information, visit www.EquinoTerapiaSMA.org

info@EquinoTerapiaSMA.org +52 415 117 3895