It’s a deep-dive session (about 90 minutes) where we look at your horse’s history, environment, management, training, and behaviour. Then we create a clear, tailored plan to address it.

Everything from bucking, bolting, rearing, and biting to float loading issues, separation anxiety, ground handling problems, and more. If your horse is showing signs of stress, resistance, or unpredictability, I can help.

Sometimes, but not always.

Most riding coaches are trained to teach riding skills, not to assess complex behavioural issues. Problem behaviours often have deeper causes, like pain, fear, confusion, or environmental stress - and those require a different skillset.

I hold a Master of Science in Equine Science and have worked at internationally recognised institutions such as dr. Andrew McLean’s Australian Equine Behaviour Centre, where I deepened my understanding of horse learning, welfare, and behaviour. I draw on evidence-based methods, not guesswork or tradition, to get to the root of what’s going on.

I’m happy to work alongside your regular coach, however if your horse is showing unsafe or confusing behaviour, a specialist behaviour consult is often the best next step.

I use science-based, horse-friendly methods grounded in equitation science and learning theory. This includes:

• Positive reinforcement where appropriate

• Clear, low-conflict communication

• Understanding stress responses, not punishing them

• Teaching both horses and humans with empathy and clarity

My goal is always to support the horse’s welfare, reduce confusion or fear, and help you build a more trusting, functional relationship.

No, I don’t use natural horsemanship techniques.

While I value trust and clear communication, I don’t use join-up, flag work, or rope pressure. These methods can trigger the flight response and rely on outdated dominance ideas.

Instead, I use evidence-based training grounded in learning theory and equitation science, so your horse learns in ways that make real sense to them, without fear or confusion.

Yes, I use positive reinforcement, including food rewards and clicker-style markers, when it's the right fit for the horse and the situation.

Positive reinforcement is a key part of science-based training. That said, not every horse responds best to food or marking alone. In some cases, negative reinforcement (like releasing light pressure) or combined reinforcement may be more effective, especially when used thoughtfully and ethically.

My approach is flexible, evidence-based, and always tailored to the horse in front of me. The goal is low-stress, clear communication that supports learning and the horse’s emotional wellbeing.

Not formally, but I do strongly recommend ruling out pain or health issues before treating something as a behaviour problem. I may ask questions about your horse’s health history or suggest a vet check if physical discomfort seems likely.

Sometimes, yes. Especially if the issue is environmental or training-related. More complex behaviours often need follow-up support or additional sessions to resolve fully.

That depends on your horse, the behaviour, and how consistent we can be with the new plan. Some changes happen immediately, others take time, especially if the behaviour has become a pattern.

Yes! I offer video-based consults for clients outside my travel area. You’ll send video clips of the behaviour, and we’ll meet via Google Meet to go through an assessment, discuss changes, and build a plan together.

You’ll receive:

• A written management and/or training plan

• Clear next steps

• Follow-up support via email, phone, or WhatsApp for 1 month

You’re welcome to book follow-up sessions, in person or online, to track progress, troubleshoot challenges, and keep moving forward.

Yes, but only once your horse is ready.

You’re welcome to move into riding or groundwork coaching after the behavioural issue has been addressed and your horse is safe to handle in a coaching setting.

This transition can happen when:

• Your horse no longer shows unsafe or extreme behaviour (e.g. bucking, bolting, rearing, biting)

• You feel confident handling them during a lesson

• The issue has been resolved or is being safely managed

• I believe coaching is now appropriate and productive for both of you

Until then, further behaviour support may be required. My priority is always safety - for you, your horse, and anyone involved in your sessions.

I’ll guide you through the process and let you know when we’re ready to shift from behaviour consults to coaching.