About Us

Meet Dr. Sara Gruenwald

I graduated with my Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Columbia University in 2003. After attending my first course in Hippotherapy/Equine-Assisted Therapy in 2007, I was so inspired by what I saw and learned that I founded Goodstone Therapy, Inc. to offer this incredible treatment approach to my own patients. My approach combines evidence-based physical therapy with the unique therapeutic benefits of equine movement, tailored to each individual’s needs. In 2020, I expanded my services to include in-home therapy sessions as well.

In 2020 I began to offer home-based services due to a significant need for such services during COVID. Once restrictions were lifted, I continued to offer home-based physical therapy as I noted an improvement in functional carry-over with services in the patient’s home environment and directly with primary caregivers.

Goodstone Therapy, Inc. and Sara Gruenwald have expanded their offerings to include specialty services in recent months- due to noting a need in the community for not only rehabilitation but also wellness services- to optimize a person’s health and well-being outside of a medical model. These services include In-home personal training, In-Home Massage therapy, Wellness Therapeutic riding, and therapeutic grooming. 

Dr. Gruenwald is one of a handful of physical therapists in the NJ area who utilize the treatment strategy of hippotherapy in her clinical practice. She is one of only a few Board Certified Hippotherapy Clinical Specialists in the area as well.

Meet Dr. Sara Gruenwald

I graduated with my Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Columbia University in 2003. After attending my first course in Hippotherapy/Equine-Assisted Therapy in 2007, I was so inspired by what I saw and learned that I founded Goodstone Therapy, Inc. to offer this incredible treatment approach to my own patients. My approach combines evidence-based physical therapy with the unique therapeutic benefits of equine movement, tailored to each individual’s needs. In 2020, I expanded my services to include in-home therapy sessions as well.

In 2020 I began to offer home-based services due to a significant need for such services during COVID. Once restrictions were lifted, I continued to offer home-based physical therapy as I noted an improvement in functional carry-over with services in the patient’s home environment and directly with primary caregivers.

Goodstone Therapy, Inc. and Sara Gruenwald have expanded their offerings to include specialty services in recent months- due to noting a need in the community for not only rehabilitation but also wellness services- to optimize a person’s health and well-being outside of a medical model. These services include In-home personal training, In-Home Massage therapy, Wellness Therapeutic riding, and therapeutic grooming. 

Dr. Gruenwald is one of a handful of physical therapists in the NJ area who utilize the treatment strategy of hippotherapy in her clinical practice. She is one of only a few Board Certified Hippotherapy Clinical Specialists in the area as well.

Raz (Pictured in Teal)

Raz is a 20 year old Grade mare who was previously a barrel racer. Raz is thrilled to be a part of the treatment team at Goodstone Therapy and prefers the slower, quieter life of a therapy horse. Raz was brought on board in 2021. She is a very good girl and stands patiently waiting for treats or love, or both!

Remi (In purple)

Remi is a 12 year old pony mare. We don’t know too much of her previous life- she’s been a little hush hush about it, but she has made progress as a therapy pony in her four years with Goodstone Therapy. She has become a star in our program and is always ready for love and attention- and of course, treats

Get In Touch

Ready to Begin the Journey?

We’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re a parent seeking therapy or a professional looking to refer a client, let’s connect.

Phone Number:

+1 (973) 752-6093

Email:

sara_gruenwald@yahoo.com

By appointment

Monday through Saturday

What People Say

At the heart of our mission is the belief that healing and growth happen best through connection, movement, and trust. Every session is more than therapy — it’s a step toward greater independence, confidence, and joy.

We’ve had the privilege of walking alongside incredible individuals and families, each with their own unique story. Whether it’s a child building strength and balance, or a family being able to bring their child to a therapy that the child actually enjoys and looks forward to thanks to the healing presence of the horses. The transformations we witness are truly inspiring.

Our clients and their loved ones have generously shared their experiences with us, and their words speak to the power of hippotherapy — not just as a clinical tool, but as a deeply personal and empowering journey. We’re honored to be a part of that journey.

I am an occupational therapist with 27 years of experience in rehab, so when I say that Sara is amazing, you can take my word for it. Her skills as a Doctor of Physical Therapy are not only excellent, but also, she is a kind and compassionate human being. Sara was able to pinpoint the source and nature of my problem before getting the results of my X-ray and MRI. I highly recommend her.
Lisa
Working with Sara and her team has been a truly transformative experience. Their unique approach using hippotherapy has helped my daughter Amelia make incredible progress in her gait and stability when walking. The combination of expert therapy and the healing connection with the horse has built confidence, strength, and joy. We are so grateful for the care, patience, and skill Sara brings to every session.
I attribute this type of skilled PT as to why Amelia is walking today(with guidance ) as I was told that Amelia would never walk. Well, we proved them all wrong!
Kristin Hannon
We have had the privilege of working with Sara since our son was 3. Now 19, he has grown into a confident, self-aware young man. Her guidance through equine-assisted therapy has been a key part of that journey.
Sara has been a constant, steady presence in our lives, a true source of support, healing, and growth. We are eternally grateful for the lasting impact she has had on our son and our family.
Heartfelt thanks. The Miller family
“Hippotherapy with Sara has helped my son with his core strength, posture, and breathing. It has positively impacted his hips. He has been working with her for over a decade.”
Anonymous