Who We Are



Susan McNutt, OT

Susan McNutt has been a pediatric occupational therapist since 1987.  In the past she has been a therapist in both the school and hospital settings, however she began building her private practice in 1990, working with Rosemary White initially while learning the basics of maintaining her own clinic.  She specializes in providing sensory integrative therapy and neurodevelopmental treatment, utilizing many different techniques including therapeutic horseback riding (Hippotherapy) and therapeutic listening programs.  She is interested in working with the family and the child as a whole so that home programs, behavioral programs, nutrition, and team work are all important parts of her therapy. 

Cherie Wipf, COTA

Cherie has been providing care as an occupational therapist assistant since 2016, and has been working at Pediatric NDT & SI Therapy Services since September, 2023. She spent her childhood caring for foster children with varying neurological abilities; when she was introduced to occupational therapy while caring for her terminally ill mother, she knew she'd found her calling. Graduating from PIMA Medical Institute in 2016, she spent the last 7 years providing critical care to adults post traumatic event; she is well-versed in all aspects of occupational therapy, placing an emphasis on safety, mobility/strengthening, emotional recognition/regulation, and providing coping strategies and environmental adaptations to maximize independence. Her dream has always been to work with children again, and she's excited to continue growing as a therapist here at Warm Rain Ranch.

Kiote

Kiote is an Appaloosa gelding. Used primarily by Susan, Chloe and Daniel. Kiote is a trustworthy horse with a big personality. Our tallest horse, he is great for teaching emotional awareness and helping his riders to find their strength and courage.

Gaylin

Gaylin is a paint gelding. Gaylin’s kind heart and loving personality bring out the best in his riders. Eager to please, he listens and carries his riders on their path to success! Gaylin’s favorite things include giving kisses, and his best friend Rowan.

Rowan

Rowan is an Appaloosa gelding who has endless patience and love for his kids. His small, athletic build encourages strength and his bright personality bonds him tightly with the kids who love him. Rowan’s favorite things include going for trail rides and making goofy faces to ask for treats.

Soren

Soren is an Appaloosa gelding. He can always get a smile with his fun, spirited personality. Soren is an able and willing partner, who will happily take his riders wherever they want to go. His favorite things include playing in the water and over-ripe pears.

The therapeutic animals we have as mentors for children include not only the horses but cats, goats, ducks, chickens, and doves. They all provide various roles in facilitating motor skills, self esteem, regulation, social skills, and communication.

Therapeutic Animals