Aloha, I’m Robbi Nanni.
I am a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) certified riding instructor dedicated to providing life-changing lessons to students with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities. My journey with horses began long before I reached the shores of the Big Island, rooted in a deep love for the equine spirit and a belief in their unique ability to heal.
I earned my AAS in Equine Science from SUNY Morrisville and have spent years competing in both the hunter and dressage disciplines. In 2015, I founded a highly successful therapeutic riding program at Horses for a Change in Esopus, NY. When I moved to Hawaii, I recognized a significant need for these services within our local community. While establishing myself in the Big Island's equine community has been both amazing and challenging, it has led to the flourishing program we have today.
At Aloha Therapeutic Horsemanship, I am honored to work with a diverse spectrum of riders, including those navigating autism, stroke recovery, Down’s syndrome, Soto’s syndrome, DDX3X, cerebral palsy, and anxiety. It is my greatest joy to witness our students increase their confidence and strength through the rhythmic movement and bond of the horse.
To ensure a comfortable start for every new student, I typically begin with a meet and greet at one of our beautiful stable locations in Waikoloa or Kailua-Kona.
This allows us to connect in person, introduce you to our gentle equine partners, and discuss how we can best support your unique journey.
My Approach
At Aloha Therapeutic Horsemanship, my approach is centered on the unique needs and goals of each individual rider. I believe that the bond between a horse and a human is a sacred partnership that fosters physical healing and emotional growth.
My method combines technical equine science with a compassionate, "Aloha-first" perspective:
Rider-Focused Therapy
Every lesson is tailored to the specific physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges of the student.
Building Confidence
Beyond physical milestones, my approach focuses on inspiring courage and self-reliance. By learning to lead and communicate with a horse, students develop tools to manage anxiety and navigate life’s hurdles.
The Power of Rhythm
I utilize the horse’s natural, rhythmic gait to help riders improve core strength, balance, and coordination.
Safety & Trust:
Creating a secure, supportive environment is the foundation of my work. Before we begin our journey together, I typically host a meet and greet at our Waikoloa or Holualoa stables to ensure every student and family feels at home within our program.