Be open to any possibility.

We use a strength-based, person-centred approach, using evidence-based counselling/psychological methods.

Our counselling and Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) practices are grounded in evidence-informed approaches. Our psychological approach is integrated and draws upon humanistic psychology as pioneered by Carl Rogers (1902–1987); compassion-focused therapy (CFT) and acceptance-commitment therapsy (ACT) - as extensions of cognitive behavioural therapy; attachment science informed by Bowlby and Ainsworth; Ecological Systems Theory (EST) developed by Bronfenbrenner (1917- 2005), the Social and Emotional Wellbeing Framework (SEWB) developed by Gee, Dudgeon, Schultz, Hart & Kelly (2014); existential therapy as a branch of the humanistic tradition (Rollo May (1909–1994), Viktor Frankl (1905–1997), and Irving Yalom (1931–2024)); and emotion-focused therapy (EFT) developed by Dr Sue Johnson (1997 - 2004).

We apply a range of integrative methods tailored to the individual and the setting, including nature therapy, mindfulness practices, polyvagal theory, play therapy, art therapy, existential exploration, and psychoeducation. Our use of metaphors, storytelling, and experiential activities helps clients not only understand but also feel how processes unfold. This holistic and personalised approach ensures that each person engages in a therapeutic experience that is meaningful, supportive, and responsive to their needs. To learn more about each modality, please visit the following resources:

Humanistic therapy = exploring what makes you unique, your relationships with the world, and achieving your unique human potential

Compassion-focused therapy = kindness + courage + (your) wisdom to change

ACT Acceptance and Commitment Therapy = helps you to accept difficult thoughts and emotions rather than resisting them. Like the changing weather, emotions come and go. ACT teaches flexibility, enabling individuals to focus on meaningful actions that align with their values. It offers practical strategies to navigate challenges such as social anxiety or workplace stress, fostering resilience and effective coping mechanisms.

Attachment science = Attachment theory and evolving research shows how the bonds we form with key people help us feel safe, supported, and connected throughout life.

Ecological Systems Theory = explains that our lives are shaped by layers of influence—like ripples in a pond or the layers of an onion—starting with close relationships such as family and friends, and extending outward to community, culture, and society.

Social and Emotional Wellbeing framework (SEWB) = The Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) framework recognises health as a holistic, interconnected balance of mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, and cultural wellbeing, shaped by family, community, and connection to Country.

Existential therapy = emphasises human freedom, responsibility, and the search for meaning, helping individuals confront existential concerns such as isolation, mortality, and choice to live more authentically.

Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) = is an evidence-based approach that focuses on emotions as the key to understanding and reshaping attachment patterns, helping individuals and couples create stronger, more secure emotional bonds in their relationships.

Polyvagal Theory = scientific biobehavioural theory of neural connection - the role of the nervous system and its response to internal and external cues/triggers - and our superpowers to regulate)

Equine-assisted learning = learning with a horse in real time to develop personal and professional life skills

We have helped people understand, manage, and improve their symptoms and quality of life associated with a range of conditions and life experiences including:

• anxiety

• depression

• post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• C-PTSD (Chronic post traumatic stress disorder)

• grief and loss

• bullying

• family domestic violence

• potential traumatic events (PTE)

• acquired brain injury

• dementia

• chronic pain

• and many others.

At Equinnect, we provide counselling in either the comfort of your home online or in nature, as well as equine-assisted learning.

Online Counselling. We are aware that evenings can often be a better time for us to have counselling to fit in with our busy lives. We have focused our practice on incorporating these times. If your best time is not available, we will do our best to accommodate you.

Counselling in Nature – sitting or walking amongst the beautiful Australian bushland.

o   You can choose your view of native trees and other flora amongst safe bush trails or observe horses safely in their large paddocks

o   We can sit in comfy camp chairs or walk and talk – you choose what works best and is most comfortable for you at the time.

o   Our nature-based ‘office’ is based on the property of Zia Park Equestrian Centre, Gidgegannup.

Counselling in Nature - with a horse - often called equine-assisted counselling (EAC), is a form of therapy where we work with you in the presence of horse. The horse is not ridden; instead, you learn to engage safely with the horse through observation, grooming, leading, or simply sharing space. Psychological approaches are integrated into the session as we collaboratively work towards your mental health or personal goals.

Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL), developed by HorseVision in 2002, is an experiential approach that uses interactions with horses to promote personal growth, social-emotional development, and learning. Guided by trained facilitators, activities such as grooming or leading horses help participants build self-awareness, communication, and emotional regulation skills. Being based at Zia Park Equestrian Centre, we get the opportunity to meet and interact with the local horse-loving community and develop our psychosocial skills further on the topic - often horses - we all love. EAL is used in therapeutic, educational, and corporate settings to address challenges like anxiety, team-building, and confidence-building.

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In these unique environments, we help clients navigate their struggles in life and facilitate personal growth, aiming to foster a safe, supportive space where individuals can reflect, practice, heal, and build resilience.

Our goal is to guide you in discovering new perspectives and inner calm as you move toward well-being, joy and contentment, and the quality of life you wish.

During your time with us, please do not stop or change any of your existing care or treatment, including prescribed medications. If you feel an improvement in symptoms, please consult your treating GP or team first.

We also welcome the opportunity to work and collaborate with your medical team - with your consent.

Counselling in nature and equine-assisted learning can open opportunities and (neuro-psychological) pathways to foster compassionate healing and well-being. We are happy to support you, your patients, or your clients’ well-being journey in part or as required.

If you need mental health support now, please contact your primary health care provider (GP) or one of these 24/7 services.

Lifeline | Beyond Blue | SANE | Kids Helpline | QLife (3pm to midnight) | 1800 Respect for Domestic Violence | Open Arms (Veterans and Family counselling) | 13Yarn | Suicide call back line