EATA NSW students from Cohort 18 will now enter the field as equine-assisted mental health practitioners after completing their final student-led community clinic last week.
From October 20 to 23, students facilitated equine-assisted therapy sessions with community clinic clients and led a two-day day retreat.
EATA practitioner Camilla Mowbray said Cohort 18’s last clinic was a wonderful experience, with the students receiving great feedback from the clients.
“It culminated in two very different day retreats – a beautiful way to complete 19-months of intensive, immersive learning.”
The five students, who were studying EATA’s Counselling course, specialising in equine-assisted mental health, first began their journey with EATA in May 2024.
They came from a range of different professional backgrounds, including mental health nursing, geo-psychology, equestrian coaching, early childhood education, equine veterinary nursing and neuro-affirming education and care.
Camilla said the diverse experience each student brought to their studies with EATA, enriched the learning community and deepened collective insight.
“Regardless of prior experience, students arrived curious and open-minded about new ways to relate to horses that honour their agency and promote attunement.
For some, this has meant a profound shift – a deepening of understanding and respect for the herd.
They’ve also gained confidence through evidence-based learning in ethical horse handling, risk management and supporting others to interact safely and respectfully with horses.
Each student has developed into a well-rounded, empathic counsellor with specialised skills in equine-assisted counselling, psychotherapy and animal-assisted therapy.”
Camila said a standout highlight of the course had been witnessing each student’s growth in self-awareness, confidence and professional identity – and the genuine care and support they’ve shown for one another along the way.
“Every workshop I teach, and every time I undertake professional development myself, I’m reminded why I love being part of the EATA family.
This is truly world-class training – it prepares emerging equine-assisted therapists to step confidently into professional roles, whether in private practice or as part of multidisciplinary teams.
I hope our graduates recognise the lifelong value of being part of the EATA community and continue to trust their intuition, professionalism, and innate wisdom.
My wish is that they carry forward both the skills and the spirit of this work – grounded, compassionate and connected to the land, the horses and the people they serve.”
FINAL LAP: EATA’s Cohort 18 from NSW have completed their Counselling course, specialising in equine-assisted mental health. From left, Lauren Lairn, Kate Fitzgibbon, Richard Loudon, Ashleigh Weston and Katie Tasker.