Located northwest of Sydney in Arcadia, Shine Bright Equine Human Services is more than a horse-riding school.
Horses, according to owner Anne-Katrin Liebe, have a unique ability to reflect human emotion, making the animals an ideal candidate for therapy.
Using the horse’s capacity to detect subtle energy, body language, and mood in ways that traditional talk therapy sometimes cannot, Shine Bright offers equine-assisted therapy to children, adolescents, and adults dealing with trauma, anxiety, autism, grief, PTSD, and more.
‘People rely mainly on their intellect, whereas horses have highly sensitive observational skills and intuitive responses to their environment,’ says Anne-Katrin. ‘Equine assisted activities create connection, build trust and can boost a person’s self-esteem… people can physically release tension and stress.’
Anne-Katrin was born in a picturesque town East Germany. After training and competing in gymnastics and horse riding during her childhood, she studied Sports Science to become a Master Sports Scientist, completing a thesis in horse riding. Along the way, Anne-Katrin became a registered ACA counsellor.
For 15 years, Anne-Katrin has brought her passion for horse riding and counselling together with her two businesses, Shine Bright Equine Human and Counselling Services and International Boutique Riding School.
Private Equine Assisted Therapy programs run for 10 weeks, with a once a week 90-minute session. During, clients will meet with horses in the field, lead, touch, and groom, and participate in mindfulness experiences and led-mounted activities in a riding arena setting.
Anne-Katrin and Shine Bright have recently launched a new equine assisted service at schools and retirement villages. For those in the surrounding suburbs of Arcadia, children and village residents will have the opportunity to experience the benefits of interacting and connecting, and creating calming, lasting memories.
‘I have an interest in reaching more people of various ages, especially people in need of support who cannot attend sessions at Shine Bright in Arcadia,’ explains Anne-Katrin.
For more information, visit shinebrightequine.com.au
