Under the supervision of instructor Jennifer Handy, Navy Seaman Jeff Shaffer swings the lead rope in the yo-yo game at Rainbow Therapeutic Riding Center in Haymarket, Virginia. The game is one of seven designed to build a relationship between horse and rider, and is the first activity of each session. After the removal of a brain tumor affected his speech and his ability to walk, Schaffer began therapy.

Marine Sgt. David Lainez enjoys spending time with the horses at the center.

Marine Sgt. David Lainez talks to Amigo while walking around the arena. He established a relationship with the horse over many visits to the center. Lainez says he relies on that bond as he works through post-traumatic stress disorder and other injuries suffered in an explosion during his time in Afghanistan.

Army Spc. Rex Tharp, left, and Army Pfc. DeShawn Kittrell ride their horses in the ring during a session.

Army Pfc. DeShawn Kittrell dismounts King Atlas after a horse therapy riding session at the Rainbow Riding Center in Haymarket, Virginia. Kittrell lost his leg in September 2011 after stepping on an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan.

Larry Shane, left, and Army Spc. Arael Lopez share their military experiences as they walk toward the riding arena. Shane is a veteran volunteering at the Rainbow Riding Center assisting military members like Lopez at the equestrian therapeutic riding center.

Pete Sowa, left, and wife Meryl jog alongside Spc. Arael Lopez of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, as rides Cappuccino. Lopez was involved in a firefight in Afghanistan, where he sustained multiple injuries to his left side.

Volunteer Susan Roberts, left, assists Army Lt. Col. Cheryl Caves of St. Petersburg, Florida as she places a saddle pad on King Atlas. Caves was caught in the blast of an improvised explosive device ten years ago in Tikrit, Iraq. She continues treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder and a traumatic brain injury.

Instructor Kat Rader assists Air Force Staff Sgt. Brian Williams place the foot of his prosthetic leg in a stirrup prior to a ride.

Instructor Megan McGerrigle leads the group along the trail. Volunteers accompany riders as a safety precaution.