Kristen Murray, MS, OTR/L, HPCS
Founder & Executive Director — Red Barn Nature's Way Foundation, Inc.
Owner & Operator — Red Barn Occupational Therapy, PLLC
Kristen Murray is a dedicated and visionary occupational therapist whose practice and nonprofit work are rooted in her lifelong connection to the natural world and the healing power of equine-assisted strategies. As one of only five Hippotherapy Clinical Specialists (HPCS®) in New York State, Kristen combines advanced clinical expertise, nature-based therapeutic philosophy, and entrepreneurial leadership to support people of all abilities. With a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy and full licensure as an OTR/L, Kristen brings extensive experience and a unique specialization to her work. Her HPCS credential certifies her as having advanced knowledge in the use of equine movement within therapy practice—certified by the American Hippotherapy Certification Board (AHCB)—indicating rigorous training, clinical reasoning, and evidence-based practice in hippotherapy. As owner of Red Barn Occupational Therapy, Kristen leads a clinical practice that integrates traditional occupational therapy with the modalities of nature, animals, and equine movement. Her nonprofit, Red Barn Nature's Way Foundation, Inc., furthers her mission to extend access to meaningful, nature-based services that promote independence and well-being for persons of all backgrounds and abilities.
Kristen's personal journey in the fields, forests, and on horseback has shaped her therapeutic vision. Growing up immersed in natural landscapes and equestrian life, she learned early the profound developmental and healing potential of the natural world: how movement, rhythm, sensory input, and connection to living creatures support growth, regulation, and meaningful occupation. Her clinical and nonprofit frameworks reflect this philosophy—with a focus on harnessing the rhythms and sensory-motor opportunities of equine movement, coupled with the context of the outdoors and nature, to engage clients, families, and communities in transformative work. Kristen's mission is to see therapy and nature converge so that clients don't just "receive treatment," but engage deeply in experiences that change how they move, feel, interact, and live. Whether in the clinic or under open skies beside horses, she guides individuals toward greater participation, self-expression, and independence. With the Red Barn Nature's Way Foundation, Kristen's vision extends beyond the therapy room to community initiatives, outdoor wellness programs, and opportunities for persons from diverse backgrounds and abilities to connect with nature, movement, and meaningful occupation.