Genean Beetson found solace and comfort in horses throughout her childhood, while growing up in a low socioeconomic area near a rural property where she cared for her horses.
The therapeutic bond she shared with her horses helped her navigate childhood trauma and exposure to domestic violence – long before she understood the science behind equine-assisted co-regulation.
Despite challenges early on in life, Genean went on to pursue a successful corporate career in the funeral industry.
But, after 20 years in a corporate role she felt compelled to pursue a new direction.
Genean said she had considered studying equine-assisted therapy for several years, but living in Sydney made access to quality programs challenging.
“When Equine Assisted Therapy Australia (EATA) launched a cohort in New South Wales in 2021, I seized the opportunity to follow my passion for healing through horses.
Initially, I explored shorter and less expensive courses but ultimately chose EATA for its professional framework and comprehensive approach.”
Genean said the decision to leave her established career was daunting, especially as she was completing a formal qualification in Human Resources Management.
However, after finishing her HR studies, she enrolled in EATA’s 2022 Counselling course, specialising in Equine Assisted Mental Health, in Galston, NSW.
“I managed to complete the course while maintaining fulltime employment, by utilizing my accrued leave.
The EATA environment was welcoming and supportive and provided me with the strength to embrace change and transition to a healthier work environment.”
Since graduating in 2023, Genean has been actively running her business Hooves for Hope, from two semi-rural locations on either side of the Hawkesbury River, northwest of Sydney.
She has experienced rapid growth of her practice, which has enabled her to employ additional staff and allowed her to focus on client care.
She has collaborated with disability services and programs for veterans and first responders.
Genean also secured government funding to facilitate youth groups aimed at encouraging young people to engage with horses and reduce screen time.
One notable achievement was organising a youth group visit to Parliament House in Sydney, supported by local MP Robyn Preston, Shadow Minister for Mental Health and Veterans.
To meet increasing demand, Genean is now transitioning her business from a sole trader to a company structure.
She said she finds her work most rewarding when supporting young people who have been socially isolated since the Covid pandemic.
“I have witnessed remarkable transformations with clients building confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills and ultimately seeking more from life.
It has been a life-changing experience for me; it doesn’t feel like work at all – I am grateful to be part of this wonderful profession.”
