Human Staff
Nicole DeBel
Founder & Instructor
Nicole starting riding and working with horses at the age of seven and followed that passion to college where she earned her bachelor’s degree in animal science, a minor in therapeutic horsemanship education, and a Master’s degree in animal science with a focus on equine gut health from the University of Connecticut. Nicole interned at a therapeutic riding center as part of her minor where she discovered the positive impact horses can make on others’ lives and she earned her PATH International instructor certification in 2018. Since then, she has taught riders of all ages and abilities, as well as managed equine care at other therapeutic riding facilities. In her spare time, Nicole enjoys reading a good book, outdoor adventures with her horse Flame and dog Sunny, and spending time with family and friends.
Amy Pruner
Founder & Instructor
Amy started riding at the age of 7 and followed her passion to UConn where she earned a bachelor's degree in animal science with a focus in equine business, and a minor in therapeutic horsemanship education. Working as a barn manager and riding instructor after college Amy built her knowledge of training horses, teaching, and horse care. Since then, Amy has earned her english and western riding instructor certification through the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA), and has become a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI) through PATH International. Amy spends most of her free time with her 26 year old Morgan Blu, riding and pampering him. Outside of riding Amy enjoys creating art, reading, playing board games, relaxing at the beach, and spending time with friends and family.
Bradley DeBel, CPA
Finance Manager
Brad has over a decade of accounting experience with the majority in public accounting with a focus in tax. Brad graduated from Montclair State University with both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Accounting in 2019 and 2021. He recently obtained a CPA license in the state of New Jersey, alongside an IRS Enrolled Agency certificate. Outside of the office you can find Brad alongside his wife Nicole pampering Flame and going for rides in the ring.
Why is being a PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor Important?
What is PATH International?
PATH Intl is the governing organization that oversees the Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI) process, certifies instructors, accredits therapeutic riding centers, provides research and continuing education, and creates and enforces standards that all participating individuals must uphold to ensure the safety and wellbeing of equines, clients and staff in the industry.
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​Why a PATH Certified Instructor?
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Safety
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CPR/AED/First Aid certified
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Trained in emergency procedures
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Trained in the safest methods/best practices
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Knowledge of contraindications/limitations/adaptations involved with different disabilities
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Select the safest, most appropriate horse for the job
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Equine Experience
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Knowledge of horses and their care
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Keep up to date on equine practices through required continuing education hours
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Maintain professional connections and have access to up to date resources in the equine industry
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Disability Education​
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Have extensive knowledge of various disabilities and experience with a wide range of abilities
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Knowledge of what activities help each student and why
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Keep up to date on disability education through continuing education hours
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Maintain professional connections/resources within the special education industry
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