Mindful Humanship

Some horses do more than read the room; they take the energy and go with it, as if they are expert therapists themselves.

Mindful Humanship: The Knowingness of Horses

Humans are explorers by nature, embarking on life journeys that often lead through darkness and uncertainty. By comparison, horses, who for centuries have been alongside us, are never lost. Because of this, when horses join a person in their journey the horses help them navigate the distance between head and heart.

We call our work equine co-facilitated therapy.

Some horses do more than read the room; they take the energy and go with it, as if they are expert therapists themselves. As experienced facilitators, dedicated to the field of equine therapy, we support clients in making their own unique meaning of the powerful language of the horse. When we witness horses doing seemingly magical things we, as therapists, are not passive in the process; we are vital co-facilitators who maintain the human boundaries of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual safety during sessions.

In this book we have powerful conversations about the horse/human relationship and our unique and evolving perspective on mental health. We invite you to the barn to encounter the knowingness of horses.

  • The universal desire for connection will never be automated. In fact, we are neurobiologically wired for connection; however, when we have been hurt or even traumatized by another human, healing that hurt with people can sometimes be difficult. This timely and deeply necessary book where these brilliant authors unfold the safety in the healing process of equine therapy is the work we need in the world. You will find in these thoughtful pages, a way back to each other that equine work can afford us is unique and critical, now more than ever.

    Jody Carrington, PhD
    Psychologist | Founder of Carrington & Co

  • This book is like sitting in a room observing the conversation between two incredible partners and experts. It speaks to the profound nature of horse-human interactions and builds deep connection to nature and human nature. It not only discusses deep therapeutic principles, but incorporates stories of healing, insight, and restoration (something so many of us need). Thanks Amy and Angie!

    Michelle Neustaedter
    Counselling Therapist/Psychotherapist, Founder of Michelle Neustaedter Counselling 

  • This book is a beautiful expression of the genuine, comforting and safe spaces that Amy and Angie always cultivate with their work. What a magnificent tribute to the healing power of horses! What these women do is truly magical and I’m honoured to have worked with them in the past and experienced their magic first-hand.

    Amber Craig
    Chair, Board of Directors
    Breaking Free Foundation

  • It takes a special kind of person to work with both horses and people and bring out the best in them. Angie and Amy’s continued commitment to growth in horsemanship alongside their ongoing development in the field of mental health, gives them a powerful ability to hold space while noticing the nuanced opportunities for healing and growth in others. They also maintain the humility to continue doing their own work when a horse challenges them. Offering compassion, understanding, and support, here you will find a safe place for growth and transformation.

    Josh Nichol, Relational Horsemanship
    A Horseman’s Pursuit