“My aim is to create a supportive and engaging environment where horses enhance learning and therapeutic experiences for participants”- Kristy

Kristy is the owner of Balance Equine Therapies who has combined her love of horses with her passion for teaching. Kristy’s love of horses started at the tender age of 6 when she was part of the Berrima District Pony Club throughout her primary school years. Kristy has spent many years in the fashion industry working in Sydney as a graphic designer stemming from her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree (Photography). Horses came back into Kristy’s life 15 years ago when she moved back to the Southern Highlands, and it’s clear they will be a part of her life forever. Competing in Eventing and Carriage driving for many years led Kristy to successfully completing her Equestrian Australian riding coach certification in 2018. Kristy has been running a busy riding school on the NSW South Coast for the past 3 years and is excited to be adding equine therapies to the services offered. Kristy is a secondary teacher (Agriculture, Visual Arts, and Design and Technology) and is currently completing a Bachelor of Equine Science at Charles Sturt University.

“I want to help participants build a trusting and therapeutic relationship between the horse and themselves, and in turn improve their capacity to learn new skills and improve their overall wellbeing”- Nikki

Nikki brings a wealth of experience to Balance Equine Therapies as a Social Worker of 8 years in both government and private enterprise. Nikki’s background is in Out of Home Care, Child Protection, and Disabilities with a focus on assessment, intervention, and trauma-informed care. Nikki grew up in the country town of Dubbo where she was a competitive rider for many years. Nikki has competed successfully in many disciplines including pony club, showing, and Eventing, which led to a love of showjumping. Nikki has trained and campaigned both her own and clients’ horses in showjumping and is currently bringing on her thoroughbred ‘Louie’ as a competitive showjumping prospect. Nikki is excited to have her passion for Social Work and love of horses coming together to help participants heal, learn new skills and grow.