My work with horses is informed by years of study, hands-on experience, and ongoing learning across equine bodywork, complementary modalities, and holistic health education. Rather than following a single system, my approach integrates multiple lineages while remaining responsive to each horse as an individual.

This page reflects the foundational learning that supports my hands-on practice.

My relationship with bodywork began with early massage studies in 1987 and deepened through formal massage education beginning in 2000. When I began massage school, my original goal was to become an equine massage therapist. During this time, I also took horseback riding lessons to deepen my understanding of movement, balance, and the horse–human partnership. My interest in equine bodywork emerged during this same period and has continued to evolve through years of study and hands-on practice with horses.

My primary equine education focuses on hands-on assessment, gentle manual techniques, and supporting the horse’s comfort, mobility, and overall well-being.

• Equine massage therapy
• Equine myofascial and soft-tissue techniques
• Performance and therapeutic bodywork principles
• Observation-based assessment and session pacing
   

These studies inform how I listen to the body, work with subtle responses, and support balance without force.

• Acupressure-informed techniques
• Meridian and energetic pathway awareness
• Manual lymphatic-style approaches
• Integrative Eastern/Western bodywork concepts
   

In addition to bodywork, my background includes work within equine-assisted learning and therapeutic environments. This experience deepened my understanding of horse behavior, communication, and emotional presence.

• Equine-assisted learning facilitation
• Therapeutic and lesson-horse environments
• Trauma-aware and horse-centered interaction models
   

My equine work is supported by over two decades of experience in human massage therapy and education, informing my understanding of anatomy, movement, and ethical touch.

• Certified massage therapy background
• Massage instruction and mentorship
• Holistic health education
• Client-centered and trauma-informed care principles
   

I value learning as an ongoing process and continue to study with respected teachers and institutes in equine bodywork, holistic health, and integrative practices.

Specific institutes and teachers are acknowledged with respect for their individual lineages and contributions to the field.

Training provides a foundation, but each session is guided by the horse in front of me. Techniques are adapted, combined, or set aside as needed, always prioritizing the horse’s comfort, consent, and response.

No two horses — and no two sessions — are the same.

Training and education listed reflect professional study and experience and are not intended as veterinary diagnosis or treatment.