Therapy Horse Talk Podcast

In this episode Sharne chats with Cathy Williams, movement and expressive arts therapy facilitator, author and founder of Intuitive Self. Cathy uses movement, art and reflection to help people reconnect with their bodies and emotions. Together, they explore somatic therapy, the connection between body and mind, and how body awareness can support emotional wellbeing and therapeutic practice. For more info: https://www.intuitiveself.com.au/

Mental Health Student Placements
In this episode of Therapy Horse Talk, I’m joined by Sunny, a mental health student who has completed a placement within an equine-assisted therapy setting. Sunny shares her experience of stepping into this unique environment and what she has learned along the way.
What can mental health students learn from working alongside horses and experienced mental health practitioners? How does being immersed in this environment develop their understanding of therapeutic relationships, communication, client engagement, rapport building and microskill development?
We’ll talk about what it’s like to take academic knowledge into a real-world therapeutic setting, and the role equine therapy providers can play in supporting students to develop as confident, reflective and ethical mental health practitioners.
Because placements aren’t just about gaining experience — they’re about discovering how we want to work as mental health professionals.

In this episode, Sharne and Dani explore four research studies examining how equine-assisted therapies can support mental health and wellbeing. They discuss findings related to reduced PTSD symptoms, lower heart rates following interactions with horses, improved social skills, and how early-life adversity can affect the therapeutic connection between a client and therapist—with horses potentially acting as a bridge.
Sharne and Dani also discuss their own small research project, using pre- and post- session questionnaires with a select group of clients. Their aim is to explore whether equine-assisted therapy can reduce anxiety and increase clients’ confidence in connecting with others.

In this episode of Therapy Horse Talk, we’re joined by Kendall, a qualified counsellor and Equine Assisted Therapist, to explore the complex and deeply personal experience of grief.
Bringing together her professional knowledge and her own lived experience of significant loss following the death of a parent, Kendall offers thoughtful insights into grief, what meaningful support can look like, and the unique role horses can play in the healing process.
A gentle and important conversation about loss, connection, and finding a way forward with grief.

A podcast exploring equine assisted therapy and the meaningful ways horses can support neurodivergent individuals through connection, emotional safety, nervous system regulation, and authentic relationship.
With special guest, Danielle Martyr (Dani), who brings lived experience and professional wisdom working with neurodiverse clients.

Welcome to Therapy Horse Talk - where horses and healing come together. 
This podcast explores equine-assisted therapy, mental health and the real life journey of running a therapy business. Through honest reflections and stories, from both the paddock and clinic, you'll hear about connection, growth, and the quiet wisdom horses offer.
Whether you are curious about equine therapy or perhaps are already a therapist wishing to learn more, you have come to the right place.
Episode one of season 2 is an introduction back, after a long break from Season 1. Sharne discusses some personal hardships, adjustments and optimism for the future.