Welcome
“The mission of LeCheval Stable is to educate the community about therapeutic horseback riding, provide counseling and equine-facilitated support services for the purposes of recreation,exercise, sport and rehabilitative therapy in an inclusive setting.”
Therapeutic riding instruction is provided by certified instructors through Professional Association Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) International. Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) is provided by licensed, national board certified and credentialed exceptional needs specialist.
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is scheduled by appointment. Lead therapist is Edward Pecukonis, Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clincial LCSW-C, Ph.D. Team is supported by Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning.
Private appointments available by calling (410) 493-1530, (410) 977-7989 or emailing the stable at marya@lechevalstable.org.
LeCheval Stable, a 501 (c) (3) non profit organization, provides an opportunity for individuals and families to explore the equestrian experience. Riders ages 5 to adult learn basic standards necessary for safe riding. Lessons are geared to the strengths and needs of the rider after an initial evaluation. Horsemanship, skill progression and equitation are taught using the guidelines of the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA), Maryland 4H Horsemanship Program, and standards of Professional Association for Therapeutic Horsemanship International. Beginning and intermediate riders work towards independence to build equestrian knowledge to support the ongoing process of skill progression. Riders learn to use the natural aids of voice, seat, hands and legs to influence and communicate with their horse.
"My life with horses began when I was seven, so I have been riding for 33 years. My ability to face my physical and emotional challenges developed as I learned to ride horses. Riding horses teaches me good lessons about life. I have learned to have a positive attitude, courage, and to keep on going when I come to an obstacle in my path. Learning about communication with horses is what I love most about learning at LeCheval Stable, and that really helps me with everything in life. At LeCheval Stable, I learned to communicate with a horse in a round pen - how to ask a horse to walk or trot without reins or being in the saddle, only with my voice and pointing. When I ride there, I feel so relaxed and confident about how I can ride. Horses are amazing animals, and they always teach and give me so much."
- Christine R. 2025
"LeCheval is a fantastic stable! It is well suited for all types and ages of riders. It is great for those who may have physical or cognitive challenges. I have experienced outstanding assistance with Marya and the staff at LeCheval. There were many times I didn't want to ride the horse due to fear so Marya let me learn about the miniature horses and how to care for horses. She would have me sit on the horse , relax and breathe. In the long run, her doing this allowed me to better understand bonding with a horse. When I was ready to ride the horse again, I was unbalanced and was able to have side walkers and a head walker. Marya graciously provided support for me. She constantly had riders and staff build meaningful relationships and share hobbies and riding advice. As a result of all of her work, the once fearful experience of riding has turned into my favorite activity and I constantly look forward to it."
- Elka S. 2025
"I like the idea that therapeutic horseback riding is a holistic therapy touching on physical, mental, emotional and even a spiritual level."
- Sue Hart, PATH Instructor in Training
"Over the past 6 1/2 years we have seen our son, Daniel, go from barely holding himself up on a horse, to now grasping the reins himself and not wanting to get off. His posture, stamina and performance have all improved. Arzu and I are truly amazed when we look at Daniel today from where he started and cannot thank you enough. We are very lucky to have Marya in our lives and not only as an instructor, but as a family friend as well. You go above and beyond with your guidance and answering any questions we ask to sitting in our IEP meetings. LeCheval Stable is like a second home to Daniel you can just see the joy in his face . He truly loves it there.
Thank you again for the tireless work everyone does with all the children and adults who come there as we certainly couldn't imagines our lives without you (Ms. Marya) and Le Cheval Stable in it. I also want to give a shout out to Mr. Edward Pecukonis for taking care of the place as well as helping out with Daniel...truly two amazing individuals."
- Parents, Dennis and Arzu Kirkland