Kathy PelletierKathy Pelletier

Executive Director
Email Kathy

 

 

 

 


Brian Funke593ce0b-7de9-4ddb-a337-426dc51a06e8

Director of Clinical Operations 
Email Brian

 

 

 

 

 


Lily Darling 85228112-6422-4292-8bba-ba473e0dfdb2

Director of Development
Email Lily

 

 

 

 


Brenda Adamson25D_14B_2676095_802526907_4

Medical Billing Manager
Email Brenda

 


Breinne LasleyBreinne

Billing Coordinator
Email Breinne

 

 

 

 

 


Katie StratmanDSC_8358

Development Manager
Email Katie

 


Amelia Brewers6b8da25a-496a-477e-bbf6-c1a53ca37beb

Marketing & Communications Manager
Email Amelia


Ivy Polley 1541519e-058f-41b9-8cff-c62a1a09e351

Front Office Manager
Email Ivy

 

 

 


Luna Castaño3E_3E4_2676095_976879073_5

Volunteer Coordinator & Development Assistant
Email Luna

 

 

 

 


Maian Matthewsc3b71352-8897-41eb-8b9c-de78353d6b5e

Patient Service, Programs, and Development Coordinator
Email Maian

Sophie SchaferA3_227_2676095_801913043_4 (1)

Equine Program Manager 
Email Sophie

 

 

    

 


Gail Ganey38F_6A_2676095_1057856589_5

Lead Horse Handler


Janessa SnethenJanessa

Horse Handler

 

 


Caroline Anderson355_2E0_2676095_626546382_4

Horse Handler

 

 

 


Sylvanna Thompson a67f1607-2b6a-4ac8-ac96-40ff12b4309a

Horse Handler

 

 

 

 

 


Caitlin Maddox 7dfe1c3c-a97f-4ee5-990c-e1486cb44cd3

Horse Handler


Stephanie Kurganov 4034fa96-1213-433f-9fbd-08aff5db87fe

Horse Handler

 

 

 

 


Sam Grams 1de95dd4-785e-4216-935f-093b998ba72c

Horse Handler

 

 

 

 

 

 


Christy Knowlin Christy

Horse Handler


2026 Horse Handlers (not pictured):
Erin Sheets
Madeline Henley
Ellie Pruitt
Anica Isch
Lea Johnson
Kendra Schroeder
Noelle Geisler
Jaelynn Wall
Lorelei Escobedo (Weekend Staff) 
Taylor Kline (Weekend Staff)

Learn more about becoming a Horse Handler
 

Charis Greiwe, OTR/LCharis

Occupational Therapist
Email Charis

Charis is a dedicated occupational therapist who graduated from the University of Southern Indiana in May 2022 with a bachelor's degree in psychology, focusing on development across the lifespan. She went on to earn her master's in occupational therapy from Milligan University in December 2024.

Charis has a strong passion for working with children in a variety of settings, bringing her expertise in both psychology and occupational therapy to make a meaningful impact on their development and well-being. When not at work, she enjoys reading books, spending time with friends, and going on walks.


Alex Helmick, OTR2E5_2D4_2676095_128681553_5

Pediatric Therapy Team Lead
Email Alex 

Alex graduated in 2015 from the University of Illinois with a bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Health and received her Master's of Science in Occupational Therapy at Indiana State University in 2017. She has worked in pediatrics for about four years and spent years years in a skilled nursing facility. Alex's focus in pediatrics is connecting with the kiddos and their families to make "work" look like play. She has received additional training in SOS Feeding as well as Pediatric Massage. 

Alex is originally from Illinois and grew up in a big University of Illinois family since her dad, brother, and herself all went to school there. During grad school, she adopted her first pet, a Pittie named Sloan. And after graduating, she rewarded herself with another rescue, a Dachshund named Winston. When she is not working, you can find Alex relaxing with her pups, working out, or traveling with friends and family. 
 
Alex loves that, at TherAplay, her love for animals and pediatrics combine. A fun fact about Alex is that she has a goal of running 10 half marathons and is half-way there! 

Courtney Walter, OTR/L b12700d3-7630-444b-8e6e-92667f1c57be

Occupational Therapist
Email Courtney

Courtney is a child-led and family-centered occupational therapist who builds therapy around each child's unique strengths and interests to create meaningful expereinces that support participation in everyday life. She is passionate about supporting children and families through individualized, engaging, and collaborative care that promotes independdence and meaningful participation in daily activities. 

Courtney graduated from Purdue University in 2022 with a bachelor's degree in Health and Kinesiology and a minor in Human Development and Family Studies. She earned her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Indiana State University in 2024. She has experience working in pediatrics as a First Steps early intervention provider and pediatric outpatient experience with a focus on feeding. Additionally, she is certified in pediatric massage and has completed training in the SOS Approach to Feeding.

Courtney has always had a love for horses and as a child, eagerly sought out opportunites to spend time around them. Combining her passion for horses with her drive for increasing children's independence and participation has made working in hippotherapy especially meaningful.

Outside of work, Courtney enjoys golfing, swimming, taking walks on the Monon, and spending time fishing.


Amanda Quinlivan, MS, OTR Amanda 3

Occupational Therapist 
Email Amanda

Amanda is a dynamic and compassionate occupational therapist who brings energy and enthusiasm to her practice. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in Spanish from Indiana University in 2018. Following two years of experience as a rehabilitation technician at St. Vincent Hospital, she pursued her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at Indiana State University, graduating in 2022.

Amanda’s passion for working with children and her lifelong love of horses came together while volunteering at TherAplay—an experience that solidified her path in pediatric hippotherapy. Today, she is proud to help foster meaningful, empowering connections between children and horses as part of the TherAplay team.

Outside of work, Amanda enjoys staying active at the gym, horseback riding, hiking, and spending quality time with friends and family.

Mara Gattozzi, PT, DPT5e718ceb-39d8-4516-9d98-4ecd3f67fed1

Physical Therapist 
Email Mara

Mara graduated from the University of Evansville in 2015 with a bachelors in Exercise Science. She continued at the University of Evansville to obtain her doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2017. 

Mara has 9 years of experience in the hospital setting where she developed skills in clinical reasoning, adaptability, and interdisciplinary collaboration. She has a passion for working with individuals with high medical complexities. Mara has several years of volunteer experience as a side walker and loves utilizing the horses as part of therapy. 

In her free time Mara enjoys hanging out with her husband and daughter, reading, and exercising. 


Sam Laslie, PT, DPTe745d9b1-854e-42cd-80a3-89b11a509075

Physical Therapist
Email Sam

Sam graduated from Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) with their bachelors in kinesiology in 2020 and went on to get their doctorate in physical therapy from Bellarmine University in 2023. Their capstone project in PT school focused on developing a novel tool to differentiate rock climbing skill level. Sam was invited to present their research findings both at the national level in San Diago and international level in Switzerland.

Since graduation Sam has worked in the pediatric outpatient setting. Sam is excited to help each child reach their unique goals. With a passion for creating fun and engaging therapy sessions, Sam ensures that every child enjoys their journey towards improved mobility, strength, and overall well-being.

Sam loves Children’s TherAplay because of the wide variety of opportunities to work towards goals. Whether that be on the horse, in the barn, at the playground, or one of the many clinic spaces.

Outside of work you can find Sam either outside rock climbing or at the studio turning chunks of clay into something functional.

Claire Edwards, M.S., CCC-SLP c0a7680a-5556-4f47-8aa9-f28ad1cc7233

Speech-Language Pathologist
Email Claire

Originally from Zionsville IN, Claire attended Butler University and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders while competing as a Division I golfer. After graduation, Claire moved to the East Coast where she attended Boston University and received a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. During her time in Boston, she had the opportunity to intern and work in a variety of settings including the Boston public schools, private practices, world-renowned hospitals.

Before joining Children's TherAplay, Claire worked in a practice setting evaluating and treating children and young adults across a variety of areas including articulation, social communication, AAC, expressive language, receptive language, and cognition. Over the past 2 years, Claire has primarily worked with children with complex developmental and genetic conditions and is passionate about creating effective, client-centered communication through both verbal language and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).

Fun Fact: Claire volunteered as a sidewalker at Children’s TherAplay during the COVID-19 pandemic where she fell in love with the joy and calmness that hippotherapy brings to children. Outside of work, Claire enjoys spending time with family, friends, and pups. She loves traveling, hiking, and playing golf or pickleball.


Karina Tomlin, MS, CCC-SLP 36C_19B_2676095_361990010_4

Pediatric Therapy Services Manager
Email Karina

Karina graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science in Spanish and Communication Sciences and Disorders. Karina then received a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Texas Christian University.

Karina has experience within a variety of settings including outpatient clinical care, home health, inpatient, and academic settings. She is passionate about alternative and augmentative communication and has experience in the areas of speech and language, feeding and swallowing, cognition and executive function, fluency, voice, literacy, as well as social pragmatics.

Karina loves that Children's TherAplay's environment provides the opportunity to explore, have fun, and be creative within therapy.

Outside of TherAplay, Karina enjoys being outdoors, spending time with her husband and pups, as well as lifting and fitness.

 


Emily Ribblett, MA, CCC-SLP16E_363_2676095_690980145_4

Speech-Language Pathologist 
Email Emily

Emily is originally from Westfield, IN, and earned both a Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, with a minor in Interpersonal Relations, and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Ball State University.

Before joining Children's TherAplay, Emily spent three years working in an elementary school in Maryland, serving students from preschool through fifth grade, including those in specialized autism programs. She provided evaluations and therapy for a range of areas, including articulation, fluency, social communication, AAC, expressive language, receptive language, and cognition.

Emily is passionate about supporting children’s growth as they achieve their goals and is dedicated to the transformative impact of hippotherapy and collaborative care at Children's TherAplay.

Outside of TherAplay, Emily enjoys traveling, hiking, and boating with friends and family.  She also enjoys DIY projects and gardening. Her pet rabbit, Roxie, proudly serves as the top gardening supervisor and expert produce critic.


Jenny Wurth, MA, CCC-SLP 9e8e6fdd-520d-4446-80d1-11c377e68ce1

Speech-Language Pathologist who specializes in working with Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children
Email Jenny

Jenny graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Speech and Hearing Sciences and a Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology from the Ohio State University. She has a Certificate in Educating Deaf Students with Disabilities from Gallaudet University. 

Before joining Children's TherAplay, Jenny spent eight years as a speech-language pathologist in Deaf education. She worked for four years at the Indiana School for the Deaf in Indianapolis and four years at the Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center in Washington DC. She is fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) and trained in See the Sound Visual Phonics. Jenny has experience working with both hearing and deaf/hard of hearing students ages 1 to 21 in the areas of articulation, listening, receptive and expressive language, social pragmatics, executive functioning, literacy, and alternative and augmentative communication (AAC). 

Jenny loves TherAplay's unique environment to support each child's speech and language needs while integrating hippotherapy as a tool to reach their goals. This can be done in the barn, clinic, gym, or playground! 

Outside of work, Jenny enjoys spending time with her husband and their dog George. She loves traveling, hiking, reading, and watching college football.


BarbieBarbie 1

Barbie is funded by Hayden Haddad Bishop in honor of Lilian & Kinley

18-year-old pony
Joined Children's TherAplay: November 2024

Barbie's small size and unique blue eyes make her a favorite for many kiddos! 

 


Beau
2026_7108

Beau is funded by Indiana Thermal Solutions
Beau's stall is generously funded by Tom & Debbie Shine and Mark & Janet Nelson

19-year-old large pony

Joined Children's TherAplay: November 2022

Beau is social, sweet, and cuddly. He has an athletic build that is the perfect size for kiddos ready to move up from our smallest ponies and transition to using the mounting block for a more independent mount. 


Chipper Chipper 4

Chipper is funded by The Gerald & Adele Kraft Foundation

17-year-old Quarter Horse
Joined Children's TherAplay: May 2025

Chipper previously showed in the Quarter Horse circuit (and did very well)! Everyone that meets him comments on how friendly and gentle he is. Chipper has a high wither which offers a narrow base of support for the kiddos - something that is often requested but not many of our horses can offer!


CocoDSC_7151

Coco and her stall are funded by Leslie Ackerman

9-year-old Pony of the Americas
Joined Children's TherAplay: July 2025

Coco loves humans and horses, and her favorite thing is making friends. She is also blind in one eye, but it doesn’t slow her down one bit!
Coco is a very calm, steady ride; but can be quite high movement as well! This makes her such a special pony as she can meet many different rider needs.


Ella 2026_7205

Ella and her stall are both funded by Leslie Ackerman.

17-year-old Welsh Pony 
Joined Children's TherAplay: March 2022

Ella used to be a lesson horse at Lucky Farms next door, so she gets to live by many of her old friends!
Ella has a lower movement and is very rhythmic and versatile, making her a great fit for any of our littlest kiddos!


Giuseppe ChildrensTheraplayOct2021-18

Giuseppe is funded by Tom & Kelly - supporting the horses who inspire us everyday

23-year-old Paint Horse, Thoroughbred, and Mustang Horse 

Joined Children's TherAplay: August 2021

Giuseppe is a former eventer and hunter/jumper. He is an absolute sweetheart and loves working with our kiddos! He is a great horse for our bigger kids who need higher movement within their sessions. He is a gentle giant and has an extremely easygoing temperment. 


JadeJade 3

Jade is funded by Jana and Tim Wiley, Kathy Wiley Smith, Dillon Wiley and Alexandra Brooks, & The Richardson Family
Jade's stall is funded by Copper Creek Canyon

26-year-old Pintaloosa
Joined Children's TherAplay: November 2024

Jade has already proven herself to be one of the quietest, most reliable members of the herd! Her narrow stature makes her a great mount for kiddo's who are working on their balance. 


KiraDSC_6992

Kira is funded by Hank & Jayma Meyers in honor of Rylee & Coen Bauer

20-year-old Percheron Cross
Joined Children's TherAplay: July 2025

Before TherAplay, Kira has mainly showed in Dressage, but also been trained in novice level cross country, and hunter/jumper.
Kira is an exceptionally calm and gentle horse in the arena. She loves working with kids, and it shows!


Luna TheraplayPonyPortraits_Nov2022_Print-22

Luna is funded by Copper Creek Canyon. 
Luna's stall is funded through Mudsock Fest.

28-year-old Percheron 

Joined Children's TherAplay: April 2022

Luna was rescued by one of our own handlers! She is a great horse for our kiddos who need a medium to high movement within their sessions. She is a very steady horse to get our kiddos used to this type of movement, and she is always very attentive to what our handlers ask of her. 


OdinDSC_7042

Odin is funded by Barb Bixler in honor of Evelyn & Isadora Dock
Odin's Stall is funded by Mudsock Fest

12-year-old Fjord
Joined Children's TherAplay: February 2026

Odin is a perfect size because he’s short enough for therapists to reach easily, but has a short, strong back that helps him carry some heavier riders!


Peanut & BananaPeanut and Banana 4 

Peanut & Banana are funded by Ilene & Karl Smith, and Michael & Karen Schankerman

Peanut is a 23-year-old Miniature Horse and Banana is a 20-year-old Minature Horse
Joined Children's TherAplay: March 2023

Peanut and Banana are a bonded pair! They have been together their entire lives and have been therapy ponies for a long time. These horses are not for riding, instead they are used for our Theraputic Animal Assisted Groundwork (TAAG) sessions. Kiddos utilize Peanut and Banana to practice grooming, feeding, leading, and other groundwork activities. 


WillowWillow 4

Willow is funded by the SOL Foundation

16-year-old Welsh Pony
Joined Children's TherAplay: November 2023 

Willow has a low-back mid size horse with AP/Lateral movement. He is generally a low-movement horse. 

 


Zella Zella 3

Zella and her stall are both generously funded by The Phil and Sharen Myers Living Trust in honor of Ally, Livy, Luke, and Kenzy. 

19-year-old Paint Horse 
Joined Children's TherAplay: September 2024

Zella was used for trail riding before coming here. We are excited about her size, her wide base of support, and slow rhythmic movement.

  • Administrative Team

    Kathy PelletierKathy Pelletier

    Executive Director
    Email Kathy

     

     

     

     


    Brian Funke593ce0b-7de9-4ddb-a337-426dc51a06e8

    Director of Clinical Operations 
    Email Brian

     

     

     

     

     


    Lily Darling 85228112-6422-4292-8bba-ba473e0dfdb2

    Director of Development
    Email Lily

     

     

     

     


    Brenda Adamson25D_14B_2676095_802526907_4

    Medical Billing Manager
    Email Brenda

     


    Breinne LasleyBreinne

    Billing Coordinator
    Email Breinne

     

     

     

     

     


    Katie StratmanDSC_8358

    Development Manager
    Email Katie

     


    Amelia Brewers6b8da25a-496a-477e-bbf6-c1a53ca37beb

    Marketing & Communications Manager
    Email Amelia


    Ivy Polley 1541519e-058f-41b9-8cff-c62a1a09e351

    Front Office Manager
    Email Ivy

     

     

     


    Luna Castaño3E_3E4_2676095_976879073_5

    Volunteer Coordinator & Development Assistant
    Email Luna

     

     

     

     


    Maian Matthewsc3b71352-8897-41eb-8b9c-de78353d6b5e

    Patient Service, Programs, and Development Coordinator
    Email Maian

  • Barn Team

    Sophie SchaferA3_227_2676095_801913043_4 (1)

    Equine Program Manager 
    Email Sophie

     

     

        

     


    Gail Ganey38F_6A_2676095_1057856589_5

    Lead Horse Handler


    Janessa SnethenJanessa

    Horse Handler

     

     


    Caroline Anderson355_2E0_2676095_626546382_4

    Horse Handler

     

     

     


    Sylvanna Thompson a67f1607-2b6a-4ac8-ac96-40ff12b4309a

    Horse Handler

     

     

     

     

     


    Caitlin Maddox 7dfe1c3c-a97f-4ee5-990c-e1486cb44cd3

    Horse Handler


    Stephanie Kurganov 4034fa96-1213-433f-9fbd-08aff5db87fe

    Horse Handler

     

     

     

     


    Sam Grams 1de95dd4-785e-4216-935f-093b998ba72c

    Horse Handler

     

     

     

     

     

     


    Christy Knowlin Christy

    Horse Handler


    2026 Horse Handlers (not pictured):
    Erin Sheets
    Madeline Henley
    Ellie Pruitt
    Anica Isch
    Lea Johnson
    Kendra Schroeder
    Noelle Geisler
    Jaelynn Wall
    Lorelei Escobedo (Weekend Staff) 
    Taylor Kline (Weekend Staff)

    Learn more about becoming a Horse Handler
     

  • Occupational Therapy Team

    Charis Greiwe, OTR/LCharis

    Occupational Therapist
    Email Charis

    Charis is a dedicated occupational therapist who graduated from the University of Southern Indiana in May 2022 with a bachelor's degree in psychology, focusing on development across the lifespan. She went on to earn her master's in occupational therapy from Milligan University in December 2024.

    Charis has a strong passion for working with children in a variety of settings, bringing her expertise in both psychology and occupational therapy to make a meaningful impact on their development and well-being. When not at work, she enjoys reading books, spending time with friends, and going on walks.


    Alex Helmick, OTR2E5_2D4_2676095_128681553_5

    Pediatric Therapy Team Lead
    Email Alex 

    Alex graduated in 2015 from the University of Illinois with a bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Health and received her Master's of Science in Occupational Therapy at Indiana State University in 2017. She has worked in pediatrics for about four years and spent years years in a skilled nursing facility. Alex's focus in pediatrics is connecting with the kiddos and their families to make "work" look like play. She has received additional training in SOS Feeding as well as Pediatric Massage. 

    Alex is originally from Illinois and grew up in a big University of Illinois family since her dad, brother, and herself all went to school there. During grad school, she adopted her first pet, a Pittie named Sloan. And after graduating, she rewarded herself with another rescue, a Dachshund named Winston. When she is not working, you can find Alex relaxing with her pups, working out, or traveling with friends and family. 
     
    Alex loves that, at TherAplay, her love for animals and pediatrics combine. A fun fact about Alex is that she has a goal of running 10 half marathons and is half-way there! 

    Courtney Walter, OTR/L b12700d3-7630-444b-8e6e-92667f1c57be

    Occupational Therapist
    Email Courtney

    Courtney is a child-led and family-centered occupational therapist who builds therapy around each child's unique strengths and interests to create meaningful expereinces that support participation in everyday life. She is passionate about supporting children and families through individualized, engaging, and collaborative care that promotes independdence and meaningful participation in daily activities. 

    Courtney graduated from Purdue University in 2022 with a bachelor's degree in Health and Kinesiology and a minor in Human Development and Family Studies. She earned her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Indiana State University in 2024. She has experience working in pediatrics as a First Steps early intervention provider and pediatric outpatient experience with a focus on feeding. Additionally, she is certified in pediatric massage and has completed training in the SOS Approach to Feeding.

    Courtney has always had a love for horses and as a child, eagerly sought out opportunites to spend time around them. Combining her passion for horses with her drive for increasing children's independence and participation has made working in hippotherapy especially meaningful.

    Outside of work, Courtney enjoys golfing, swimming, taking walks on the Monon, and spending time fishing.


    Amanda Quinlivan, MS, OTR Amanda 3

    Occupational Therapist 
    Email Amanda

    Amanda is a dynamic and compassionate occupational therapist who brings energy and enthusiasm to her practice. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in Spanish from Indiana University in 2018. Following two years of experience as a rehabilitation technician at St. Vincent Hospital, she pursued her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at Indiana State University, graduating in 2022.

    Amanda’s passion for working with children and her lifelong love of horses came together while volunteering at TherAplay—an experience that solidified her path in pediatric hippotherapy. Today, she is proud to help foster meaningful, empowering connections between children and horses as part of the TherAplay team.

    Outside of work, Amanda enjoys staying active at the gym, horseback riding, hiking, and spending quality time with friends and family.

  • Physical Therapy Team

    Mara Gattozzi, PT, DPT5e718ceb-39d8-4516-9d98-4ecd3f67fed1

    Physical Therapist 
    Email Mara

    Mara graduated from the University of Evansville in 2015 with a bachelors in Exercise Science. She continued at the University of Evansville to obtain her doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2017. 

    Mara has 9 years of experience in the hospital setting where she developed skills in clinical reasoning, adaptability, and interdisciplinary collaboration. She has a passion for working with individuals with high medical complexities. Mara has several years of volunteer experience as a side walker and loves utilizing the horses as part of therapy. 

    In her free time Mara enjoys hanging out with her husband and daughter, reading, and exercising. 


    Sam Laslie, PT, DPTe745d9b1-854e-42cd-80a3-89b11a509075

    Physical Therapist
    Email Sam

    Sam graduated from Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) with their bachelors in kinesiology in 2020 and went on to get their doctorate in physical therapy from Bellarmine University in 2023. Their capstone project in PT school focused on developing a novel tool to differentiate rock climbing skill level. Sam was invited to present their research findings both at the national level in San Diago and international level in Switzerland.

    Since graduation Sam has worked in the pediatric outpatient setting. Sam is excited to help each child reach their unique goals. With a passion for creating fun and engaging therapy sessions, Sam ensures that every child enjoys their journey towards improved mobility, strength, and overall well-being.

    Sam loves Children’s TherAplay because of the wide variety of opportunities to work towards goals. Whether that be on the horse, in the barn, at the playground, or one of the many clinic spaces.

    Outside of work you can find Sam either outside rock climbing or at the studio turning chunks of clay into something functional.

  • Speech Therapy Team

    Claire Edwards, M.S., CCC-SLP c0a7680a-5556-4f47-8aa9-f28ad1cc7233

    Speech-Language Pathologist
    Email Claire

    Originally from Zionsville IN, Claire attended Butler University and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders while competing as a Division I golfer. After graduation, Claire moved to the East Coast where she attended Boston University and received a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. During her time in Boston, she had the opportunity to intern and work in a variety of settings including the Boston public schools, private practices, world-renowned hospitals.

    Before joining Children's TherAplay, Claire worked in a practice setting evaluating and treating children and young adults across a variety of areas including articulation, social communication, AAC, expressive language, receptive language, and cognition. Over the past 2 years, Claire has primarily worked with children with complex developmental and genetic conditions and is passionate about creating effective, client-centered communication through both verbal language and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).

    Fun Fact: Claire volunteered as a sidewalker at Children’s TherAplay during the COVID-19 pandemic where she fell in love with the joy and calmness that hippotherapy brings to children. Outside of work, Claire enjoys spending time with family, friends, and pups. She loves traveling, hiking, and playing golf or pickleball.


    Karina Tomlin, MS, CCC-SLP 36C_19B_2676095_361990010_4

    Pediatric Therapy Services Manager
    Email Karina

    Karina graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science in Spanish and Communication Sciences and Disorders. Karina then received a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Texas Christian University.

    Karina has experience within a variety of settings including outpatient clinical care, home health, inpatient, and academic settings. She is passionate about alternative and augmentative communication and has experience in the areas of speech and language, feeding and swallowing, cognition and executive function, fluency, voice, literacy, as well as social pragmatics.

    Karina loves that Children's TherAplay's environment provides the opportunity to explore, have fun, and be creative within therapy.

    Outside of TherAplay, Karina enjoys being outdoors, spending time with her husband and pups, as well as lifting and fitness.

     


    Emily Ribblett, MA, CCC-SLP16E_363_2676095_690980145_4

    Speech-Language Pathologist 
    Email Emily

    Emily is originally from Westfield, IN, and earned both a Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, with a minor in Interpersonal Relations, and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Ball State University.

    Before joining Children's TherAplay, Emily spent three years working in an elementary school in Maryland, serving students from preschool through fifth grade, including those in specialized autism programs. She provided evaluations and therapy for a range of areas, including articulation, fluency, social communication, AAC, expressive language, receptive language, and cognition.

    Emily is passionate about supporting children’s growth as they achieve their goals and is dedicated to the transformative impact of hippotherapy and collaborative care at Children's TherAplay.

    Outside of TherAplay, Emily enjoys traveling, hiking, and boating with friends and family.  She also enjoys DIY projects and gardening. Her pet rabbit, Roxie, proudly serves as the top gardening supervisor and expert produce critic.


    Jenny Wurth, MA, CCC-SLP 9e8e6fdd-520d-4446-80d1-11c377e68ce1

    Speech-Language Pathologist who specializes in working with Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children
    Email Jenny

    Jenny graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Speech and Hearing Sciences and a Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology from the Ohio State University. She has a Certificate in Educating Deaf Students with Disabilities from Gallaudet University. 

    Before joining Children's TherAplay, Jenny spent eight years as a speech-language pathologist in Deaf education. She worked for four years at the Indiana School for the Deaf in Indianapolis and four years at the Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center in Washington DC. She is fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) and trained in See the Sound Visual Phonics. Jenny has experience working with both hearing and deaf/hard of hearing students ages 1 to 21 in the areas of articulation, listening, receptive and expressive language, social pragmatics, executive functioning, literacy, and alternative and augmentative communication (AAC). 

    Jenny loves TherAplay's unique environment to support each child's speech and language needs while integrating hippotherapy as a tool to reach their goals. This can be done in the barn, clinic, gym, or playground! 

    Outside of work, Jenny enjoys spending time with her husband and their dog George. She loves traveling, hiking, reading, and watching college football.


  • Horse Team

    BarbieBarbie 1

    Barbie is funded by Hayden Haddad Bishop in honor of Lilian & Kinley

    18-year-old pony
    Joined Children's TherAplay: November 2024

    Barbie's small size and unique blue eyes make her a favorite for many kiddos! 

     


    Beau
    2026_7108

    Beau is funded by Indiana Thermal Solutions
    Beau's stall is generously funded by Tom & Debbie Shine and Mark & Janet Nelson

    19-year-old large pony

    Joined Children's TherAplay: November 2022

    Beau is social, sweet, and cuddly. He has an athletic build that is the perfect size for kiddos ready to move up from our smallest ponies and transition to using the mounting block for a more independent mount. 


    Chipper Chipper 4

    Chipper is funded by The Gerald & Adele Kraft Foundation

    17-year-old Quarter Horse
    Joined Children's TherAplay: May 2025

    Chipper previously showed in the Quarter Horse circuit (and did very well)! Everyone that meets him comments on how friendly and gentle he is. Chipper has a high wither which offers a narrow base of support for the kiddos - something that is often requested but not many of our horses can offer!


    CocoDSC_7151

    Coco and her stall are funded by Leslie Ackerman

    9-year-old Pony of the Americas
    Joined Children's TherAplay: July 2025

    Coco loves humans and horses, and her favorite thing is making friends. She is also blind in one eye, but it doesn’t slow her down one bit!
    Coco is a very calm, steady ride; but can be quite high movement as well! This makes her such a special pony as she can meet many different rider needs.


    Ella 2026_7205

    Ella and her stall are both funded by Leslie Ackerman.

    17-year-old Welsh Pony 
    Joined Children's TherAplay: March 2022

    Ella used to be a lesson horse at Lucky Farms next door, so she gets to live by many of her old friends!
    Ella has a lower movement and is very rhythmic and versatile, making her a great fit for any of our littlest kiddos!


    Giuseppe ChildrensTheraplayOct2021-18

    Giuseppe is funded by Tom & Kelly - supporting the horses who inspire us everyday

    23-year-old Paint Horse, Thoroughbred, and Mustang Horse 

    Joined Children's TherAplay: August 2021

    Giuseppe is a former eventer and hunter/jumper. He is an absolute sweetheart and loves working with our kiddos! He is a great horse for our bigger kids who need higher movement within their sessions. He is a gentle giant and has an extremely easygoing temperment. 


    JadeJade 3

    Jade is funded by Jana and Tim Wiley, Kathy Wiley Smith, Dillon Wiley and Alexandra Brooks, & The Richardson Family
    Jade's stall is funded by Copper Creek Canyon

    26-year-old Pintaloosa
    Joined Children's TherAplay: November 2024

    Jade has already proven herself to be one of the quietest, most reliable members of the herd! Her narrow stature makes her a great mount for kiddo's who are working on their balance. 


    KiraDSC_6992

    Kira is funded by Hank & Jayma Meyers in honor of Rylee & Coen Bauer

    20-year-old Percheron Cross
    Joined Children's TherAplay: July 2025

    Before TherAplay, Kira has mainly showed in Dressage, but also been trained in novice level cross country, and hunter/jumper.
    Kira is an exceptionally calm and gentle horse in the arena. She loves working with kids, and it shows!


    Luna TheraplayPonyPortraits_Nov2022_Print-22

    Luna is funded by Copper Creek Canyon. 
    Luna's stall is funded through Mudsock Fest.

    28-year-old Percheron 

    Joined Children's TherAplay: April 2022

    Luna was rescued by one of our own handlers! She is a great horse for our kiddos who need a medium to high movement within their sessions. She is a very steady horse to get our kiddos used to this type of movement, and she is always very attentive to what our handlers ask of her. 


    OdinDSC_7042

    Odin is funded by Barb Bixler in honor of Evelyn & Isadora Dock
    Odin's Stall is funded by Mudsock Fest

    12-year-old Fjord
    Joined Children's TherAplay: February 2026

    Odin is a perfect size because he’s short enough for therapists to reach easily, but has a short, strong back that helps him carry some heavier riders!


    Peanut & BananaPeanut and Banana 4 

    Peanut & Banana are funded by Ilene & Karl Smith, and Michael & Karen Schankerman

    Peanut is a 23-year-old Miniature Horse and Banana is a 20-year-old Minature Horse
    Joined Children's TherAplay: March 2023

    Peanut and Banana are a bonded pair! They have been together their entire lives and have been therapy ponies for a long time. These horses are not for riding, instead they are used for our Theraputic Animal Assisted Groundwork (TAAG) sessions. Kiddos utilize Peanut and Banana to practice grooming, feeding, leading, and other groundwork activities. 


    WillowWillow 4

    Willow is funded by the SOL Foundation

    16-year-old Welsh Pony
    Joined Children's TherAplay: November 2023 

    Willow has a low-back mid size horse with AP/Lateral movement. He is generally a low-movement horse. 

     


    Zella Zella 3

    Zella and her stall are both generously funded by The Phil and Sharen Myers Living Trust in honor of Ally, Livy, Luke, and Kenzy. 

    19-year-old Paint Horse 
    Joined Children's TherAplay: September 2024

    Zella was used for trail riding before coming here. We are excited about her size, her wide base of support, and slow rhythmic movement.

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