Equestrian Psychology
As a horse enthusiast, an avid competitor in the showjumping circuit and a fully registered Clinical Psychologist I hold skills and knowledge to help riders with any performance related challenges they are experiencing. My background into horses started a very young age and my competition journey began on my ponies at the age of 12. Although riding horses was always my passion, I also had a strong interest in the human mind and helping others. I chose to pursue my interest in psychology and completed my BSc and MSc, whilst also gaining invaluable experience working as an Assistant Psychologist in mental health wards and prisons. I went onto to complete my Clinical Psychology Doctorate at Hertfordshire University. During this time I continued to gain knowledge and therapy skills through working across a variety of settings, including working with children and young people using a modality called Equine Assisted Therapy. Fast forward to now, I am pursing my riding career alongside continuing to fulfill my passion of helping others achieve their goals with their four legged partner.
Why do equestrians need psychology? Because equestrian sports are one of the toughest around. Not only do we need to consider our mindset, but we need to also consider cultivating a meanigful relationship with another living being. Under the unique pressures of the equestrian world, it is important for riders to look after their mental wellbeing, as much as they look after their horse.
“One goal, one dream, one team”
BSc, MSc & Dclin
How can I help?
Anxiety
Confidence
Performance
Motivation
Working through accidents, falls and fear
Competing as part of team
Amongst other equestrian related challenges
My Services
All the below options include a free 15 minute phone consulatation and an initial full assessment to understand how I may be able to help before regular sessions commence.
1:1 in Person Sessions
1:1 in person sessions happen at my private office in Hertfordshire. This confidential and warming space allows us to discuss challenges and action plans together. Sometimes, I may ask if we could do something at your stables with your horse (if local to me).
1:1 virtual sessions
Not local? No problem. I also offer virtual sessions for those who still want to access support but can’t make it in person.
Group sessions
Are you riding as part of a team? Are you managing a team or group of riders? Or would it feel important for those helping you, like instructors, to understand how best to continue to support? We can organise both virtual and in person sessions.
The approach
I work using a mixture of different therapy modalities in order to help support cognitive, emotional and physiological aspects of our human body. I do this through a mixture of talking, story telling and creative elements such as music or art. We focus on things such as:
Goal Setting.
Understanding the function of emotions and the neuroscience behind what goes on in our brains and bodies.
Emotional regulation skills.
Challenging cognitive thinking processes.
Exploring physiological sensations and our bodies to ensure we learn to understand the concious and much as the subconcious.
Positive mental preperation before competions or events.
FAQs
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Absolutely! Virtual sessions can always be arranged for wherever you are!
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Your riding trainer is there to teach you the practicalities of how to ride. They may not always have the knowledge or understanding to support you with performance or other mental challenges you are facing!
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Yes, many of our clients that have come to train with us at HRB have also accessed my psychological support with their riding. If you choose to train with us, I work closely with Daniel in order to help your training goals.
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This is an ever evolving conversation, and something we will regularly review throughout our time working together. I do suggest the first four or five sessions happen regularly, i.e. once per week. We can then work together to decide the frequency of sessions.
Due to my training I am also qualifed Clinical Psychologist, registered with the HCPC to support those struggling with traditional theraputic approaches. Please do contact me on the form below to enquire about other theraputic services I offer.