Growth or healing through experience - participation, connection, movement & reflection.
What can I expect from an Equinnect EAT experience?
Equine-assisted therapy (EAT) is a therapeutic approach that incorporates interactions with horses into a structured plan. It is typically facilitated by a licensed mental health professional - just like at Equinnect.
The therapy session is designed to support emotional, psychological, developmental, and sometimes physical well-being.
Activities with the horse are chosen to align with your personal goals for growth, connection, mental health, well-being, or simply enjoyment. However, sessions often evolve naturally, guided by your innate wisdom and drive toward balance and well-being and the horse co-facilitator. This organic unfolding is part of the unique joy and discovery in EAT, which Equinnect fully supports. EAT has no right or wrong—only a focus on creating a safe, supportive well-being space.
The session occurs through playful, fun, or relaxing horse-connected activities at your pace.
All activities are on the ground; no riding or mounted activities occur.
No previous experience with horses is required.
You will also be trained to approach and safely move around a horse on the ground.
Activities can range from:
Grooming the horse
Moving around a horse safely and with confidence
Creative activities (problem-solving games, leading games, music or playing a musical instrument, art activities, etc.)
Leading, walking, or moving with the horse on or off a lead rope
Sitting nearby or in the surroundings of the horse
Guided or unguided body awareness exercises
Relaxation exercises
Play with objects that can be used safely with you and the horse.
You can ask us to stop, take a break, or rest at any time.
EAT can sometimes uncover unexpected emotions or thoughts, a natural part of growth and learning. It’s entirely okay if this happens—we are here to support you. With our professional background in mental health and counselling, your needs, safety and readiness will always guide our approach, ensuring a supportive and secure environment as you navigate your EAT and well-being experience.
What do I need to do on the day of my session?
Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your session starts to meet with Tanya, receive an orientation to the facilities, and review any required pre-session forms.
These forms include an indemnity waiver form (standard procedure for horse-related activities) and an intake assessment form. Tanya will send these forms to you before your session.
Allow approximately 1.5 hours for your first session to support introductions and orientation to facilities.
Come with an open mind, ready to try something new and explore without expectations or judgment—including the possibility of relaxing or having fun. If this feels a bit daunting, know that we’re here to support you every step of the way.
What to wear/bring?
Please wear enclosed shoes and clothes that are fitting (not loose like skirts, dresses or scarves) and appropriate for the weather (sun protection and/or wind/rain protection). Jeans or leggings are great. A secured hat for sun protection is ideal, and in preference to opaque sunglasses if possible.
Remember to bring a bottle of water for thirst. And be open and embrace that you may get a bit dirty!
Getting there
The session is at the horses’ home, Zia Park Equestrian Centre, Gidgegannup, in the heart of the Perth Hills. It is a 20-minute drive from Midland (or approx. 45-minute drive from Perth) to a beautiful bushland-surrounded naturescape.
Address: 8410 Stoneville Road, Gidgegannup, Western Australia.
Upon arrival, please meet me near the carpark.
Session times and fee.
Please contact Equinnect to discuss a time suitable for you and Burke, Mabel (or one of his fellow four-legged velvet friends).
With EAT, one session may be all you need to re-spark your sense of self, joy, connection, and well-being. However, more sessions are often required to address an issue or support mental health improvement and maintenance. With additional sessions, you also enhance attunement and connection with the horse, learning more about them and their personality, and yourself
EAT can also be a unique gift to consider for yourself or a loved one. In one session, you will learn and practice self care and basic emotional regulation and how to be around a horse safely.
Payment is required before the session to confirm your session. Sessions are $150.00.
Click on Book a Session (below) to book a session
We also welcome you to book ad-hoc sessions when you feel you need a well-being and self-compassion boost or a horse connection-boost.
For regular, ongoing sessions, please discuss this with Tanya. Based on your aspirations, an EAT well-being plan will be developed, and/or you can incorporate goals from the care plan developed with your healthcare team.
Cancellation of session.
Reschedule or 100% reimbursement of payment will be provided if the participant gives Equinnect at least 48 hours notice before the session starts.
If Equinnect is notified of a cancellation at least 5 hours (and 48 hours) before the session, a 50% payment reimbursement will be provided or reschedule offered with payment balance required.
Any sessions cancelled after this period (within five hours of your session) will be charged at the total rate of the session.
Please advise Tanya/Equinnect if you need to cancel as soon as possible, as this may enable another participant to book this time.
AND, if unexpected extenuating circumstances arise preventing your session, please contact Equinnect at 0427 383 696 to discuss your situation as soon as possible. For example, if unwell and have a medical certificate.
Let’s meet up in real life to learn and share through the beauty of the horse and the natural world.
If you are interested in arranging a session or are curious to learn more, we welcome you to message or call us on 0427 383 696. Best wishes, and we look forward to your contact, Tanya.