I used to clean stables for a couple that has a therapeutic riding program. I also used to help with the kids when they came to ride and it is just a big joy to see how these kid's (mostly authistic) bonded with the horse and the horse with them. There was a child that eventually started walking after attending the program and it did't walk before ever.
There are pictures and stories on the web side: www.cmstarriders.com
check it out.