Frequently Asked Questions

Tell me more about Equine assisted learning

Equine assisted learning is harnessing the magnificence of the horse and their capacity to help humans heal. Horses are beautiful, intelligent, sensitive and strong animals. In this work we look at the horse as a teacher, offering horse wisdom that we can incorporate into our modern lives. Being in their presence, in a therapeutic setting can elicit strong feelings and responses with many people. Often, unconscious feelings and needs within us become apparent, which becomes available for therapeutic attention and processing. Calm and healthy horses can provide an emotional and sensory environment that is conducive to calmness and the development of trust. They model authenticity, embodied presence and help co-regulate our nervous system. Horses have an innate ability to work with our hearts, therefore increasing our capacity for love. Often, they can help people move through emotional blockages, that many years of traditional therapies have not been able to do.

There is no ridden component to this work at Heart of the Horse

What do I need to bring?

Our session is outdoors so please bring a jacket, a sunhat if hot and shoes that are enclosed. A water bottle is often needed as well in the warmer months. Long pants are ideal as we will be in rural paddocks. If you or your child become a regular client I would love you to source some boots to keep you or your child’s feet as protected as possible around the horses. If you are travelling from further afield the weather here can be several degrees different in relatively short distances. It is a great idea to dress in layers or have access to extra jackets etc.

What payment types do you accept?

I love cash but also bank transfers are possible along with a square tap card facility.

Do I need horse experience to participate?

You don't require any horse experience to participate. I will have the space set as safe as possible and have very quiet horses, however we are around big animals that respond to their environment quickly if something changes. I do require a waiver form to be signed and brought with you.

What are your cancellation fees?

Cancellation fee schedule. My individual sessions book out several weeks in advance, especially the Saturday time slots as they are in high demand. If there is a cancellation on the day the full fee is to be paid, as many people have most likely been turned away from that time slot. If the cancellation is within 24hours, you will be required to pay 50% if I cannot fill the spot from a waitlist. If you are a first time client for a Saturday session a non refundable deposit of $50 is required to secure your session.

How do I get the best out of my session?

If and where possible it is very nourishing to plan for quiet time after your session. The deep energy work that can occur with the horses can be very profound. So if you have time please enjoy the region and maybe pack a picnic, take a walk, do some journalling, lie on a picnic rug on the earth or maybe even do some art. Be quiet, still and receptive to the healing power that can occur after these experiences with the herd. There are gorgeous botanical gardens in Malmsbury and a great bakery. Our neighbours at Zig Zag winery also offer a cellar door with a beautiful deck overlooking the rolling hills of the region.

Terms and Conditions at Heart of the Horse

Please read these terms and conditions carefully before using the services provided by Heart of the Horse. By accessing and using our website or participating in our services, you agree to be bound by the following terms and conditions:

1. Services and Consultations:
a. Heart of the Horse offers Equine Assisted Learning, healing sessions, coaching sessions, group events and retreats.
b. Our services are not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns or conditions.

2. Client Responsibilities:
a. Clients must take full responsibility for themselves whilst on the property and interacting with the animals on site

They are to stay aware in the present moment and adjust as required whilst in the presence of horses

b. Clients are responsible for disclosing any concerns that may impact either individual or group sessions
c. Clients must follow the instructions, guidelines, and recommendations provided by our practitioners to ensure a safe and effective experience.

3. Payment and Cancellations:
a. Payment for services must be made as per the pricing and payment terms agreed upon.
b. We may require a deposit or advance payment to secure bookings.
c. Cancellations or rescheduling of appointments must be done within the specified timeframe.

Cancellation fee schedule. My individual sessions book out several weeks in advance, especially the weekend time slots as they are in high demand. If there is a cancellation on the day the full fee is to be paid, as many people have most likely been turned away from that time slot. If the cancellation is within 24hours, you will be required to pay 50% if I cannot fill the spot from a waitlist. If you are a first time client for a weekend session a non refundable deposit of $50 is required to secure your session.

4. Confidentiality:
a. We maintain strict confidentiality of client information, including personal and medical details, as outlined in our Privacy Policy.
b. Clients are expected to respect the privacy and confidentiality of other clients they may encounter during their visit or participation in our services. This is a very important aspect when participating in group activities.

5. Intellectual Property:
a. All content, materials, and intellectual property displayed on our website, including text, images, logos, and trademarks, are the property of Heart of the Horse or its licensors and are protected by copyright laws.
b. Clients are prohibited from reproducing, distributing, or using our intellectual property without prior written consent.

6. Limitation of Liability:
a. Heart of the Horse and its practitioners shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from the use of our services or reliance on the information provided.
b. Clients participate in our services at their own risk and will be asked to sign a liability waiver form before interacting with the horses.

7. Governing Law and Jurisdiction:
These terms and conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Victoria. Any disputes arising out of or in connection with these terms shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Victoria.

Please ensure that you carefully review and understand these terms and conditions before engaging with our services. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us immediately.

Privacy Policy at Heart of the Horse

At Heart of the Horse, we are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring the security of your personal information. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal data when you use our services or interact with our website. Please read this policy carefully to understand our practices regarding your personal information.

1. Information Collection:

1.1 Personal Information:

We may collect personal information directly from you, such as your name, contact information (including email address, phone number, and mailing address), and payment details when you make an appointment, register for our services, or communicate with us through our website or other channels.

1.2 Non-Personal Information:

We may also collect non-personal information about your interactions with our website and services. This may include data such as your IP address, browser type, device information, and usage patterns.

2.1 Providing Services:

We use the personal information you provide to deliver our services to you. This includes scheduling appointments, managing your treatment plans, and communicating with you about your progress or any changes to our services.

2.2 Communication:

We may use your personal information to send you important updates, newsletters, marketing materials, or other information related to our services. You can opt out of receiving these communications at any time by following the unsubscribe instructions provided in the emails or contacting us directly.

2.3 Improving Our Services:

We may analyse non-personal information to improve our website, services, and overall customer experience. This may involve using cookies or similar technologies to track and understand user preferences, trends, and interactions.

2.4 Legal Compliance:

We may use or disclose your personal information to comply with applicable laws, regulations, legal processes, or enforceable government requests.

3. Information Sharing:

3.1 Third-Party Service Providers:

We may share your personal information with trusted third-party service providers who assist us in delivering our services, such as hosting providers, payment processors, or IT support. These service providers are contractually bound to protect your personal information and are prohibited from using it for any other purpose.

3.2 Legal Requirements:

We may disclose your personal information if required by law or in response to a valid legal request, such as a court order or government investigation.

3.3 Business Transfers:

In the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale of our business assets, your personal information may be transferred as part of the transaction. We will notify you via email or prominent notice on our website if such a transfer occurs, and your personal information will continue to be subject to this Privacy Policy.

4. Data Security:

We employ reasonable physical, technical, and administrative measures to protect your personal information from unauthorised access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. However, no method of data transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure. Therefore, while we strive to use commercially acceptable means to protect your personal information, we cannot guarantee its absolute security.

5. Your Choices:

5.1 Access and Correction:

You have the right to access, correct, or update your personal information. If you wish to do so, please contact us using the contact information provided at the end of this policy.

5.2 Opt-Out:

You can opt out of receiving marketing communications from us by following the unsubscribe instructions provided in the emails or by contacting us directly.

5.3 Cookies:

Most web browsers are set to accept cookies by default. You can adjust your browser settings to refuse cookies or to alert you when cookies are being sent. However, please note that some features of our website may not function properly without cookies.

By using our website and services, you acknowledge that you have read and understood our privacy policy. If you have any questions or concerns about our privacy practices, please contact us at [contact information]