Sport Psychology for Equestrians
What do we do in session? How can Sport Psychology help?
Well, I help equestrians discover more confidence, challenge perfectionism, develop a growth mindset and reconnect with why they ride in the first place.
Riding is psychologically unlike almost any other sport. You're not just managing your own mind, you're managing a living partnership with a horse who feels everything. Your anxiety goes down the reins. Your tension shows up in your horse's body. Riding is a conversation happening in real time between two nervous systems.
I'm also a rider so I truly understand feel. This is the only world I work in and I get it on a deep level.
I offer individual telehealth sessions for equestrian athletes in California and Oregon. Sessions are 50 minutes and are tailored entirely to you.
We don't just talk about what's wrong. We build instantly usable skills, the kind you can take directly to your next ride, the warm up ring, or the in-gate. Breath work that regulates your nervous system. Tools for the "what-ifs" that hijack your focus. And ways to have a more supportive inner voice versus a harsh and critical one.
My approach draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, somatic practice, and self-compassion.
What riders come to me for:
Fear after a fall: the kind that makes the thing that was safe and fun feel dangerous. The "what-ifs" that take over before you get on. The paralysis you feel when you do get on.
Performance anxiety and competition nerves: the spiral that starts the night before and doesn't let up. The warm up arena that feels like utter chaos (well, sometimes it is and not because of anxiety)
Negative self-talk and the inner critic: the voice that narrates every mistake. The self-doubt that follows you home and chips away at your mood.
Loss of confidence after a fall, accident, difficult ride or lesson or challenging show season.
Bouncing back and refocusing: from a bad test or a bad round.
Feeling disconnected from your horse: when the partnership that usually grounds you starts to feel fragile.
Imposter syndrome and managing pressure and expectations: your own, your trainer's, your family's, and the ones you're not sure where they came from.
Burnout: you work so you can ride and afford this sport, but then when do you have the time to get to the barn and not be exhausted.
Are you a trainer, rider, board member or local chapter member who would like to schedule a group clinic hosted at your very own barn? Let’s collaborate!
I offer clinics, workshops and presentation that can include both mounted sessions and group consultation with space for auditors. I collaborate with you to create personalized presentations and workshops ranging from 1 hour to half day interactive workshops and 1 or 2 day mounted clinics. Topics have included managing fear and anxiety in the saddle, building mental toughness/resilience, increasing confidence, managing the inner critic and perfectionism, and more.
Testimonials
Getting Started
We will begin with an initial 20 minute phone conversation free of charge. During the call we will discuss more about what you are looking for as well as have time for me to answer any questions that you have.
Fees and Insurance
My practice is private pay. Sessions are $250 for a 50 minute session and are comparable to other licensed sport psychologists in the Bay Area.
I can provide a monthly superbill for clients who wish to seek out-of-network reimbursement from their insurance provider. Please contact your insurer to understand your specific out-of-network benefits.
Have more questions about working together? Visit the FAQs page
Notice To Consumers: The Department of Consumer Affairs’ Board of Psychology receives and responds to questions and complaints regarding the practice of psychology. If you have questions or complaints you may contact the Board on the Internet at www.psychology.ca.gov, by e-mailing bopmail@dca.ca.gov, calling 1-866-503-3221 or writing to the following address: Board of Psychology 1625 North Market Blvd, Suite N-215 Sacramento, CA 95834
