What year did you begin your relationship at High Horses? I started as a volunteer in August 2019 and joined the staff in May 2021.

How did you become involved with High Horses?  Volunteering as a UVM student, completing my senior capstone project

What is your educational background? Undergraduate degree in Exercise and Movement Science from UVM ; In Progress Graduate Degree in Occupational Therapy from Maria College of Albany

What are your credentials related to equine-assisted services? Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor

What impact do you see with equine-assisted services? The biggest impact I see with equine-assisted services is the emotional impact horses have on everyone around them. Horses have a way about them that helps those around them slow down, feel grounded, and regulate the nervous system. I have also seen drastic improvements in confidence and self-esteem with all my clients after they spend time working with horses. 

Did you grow up around horses? Do you currently have horses? I have been riding since I was 5, got my first pony when I was 8, and currently have one horse, a 23-year-old TB/Clyd cross named Dakota, who I have had since I was 12. 

Where did you grow up?  I grew up in Bennington, VT.

What are some of your favorite non-horse or therapy-related hobbies? Skiing/Snowboarding/Reading

If a horse from High Horses could speak, who are they and what would they say? Mac would be Sleepy from Snow White, and he would say he’d love to just rest his eyes while being groomed.