At Balance Equine Therapies, our dedicated team brings a wealth of experience in equine-assisted therapy, counselling, and education. Each team member is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and enriching environment where clients can experience the healing power of horses.

As Managing Director of Balance Equine Therapies, Kristy oversees the day-to-day operations with a strong focus on participant safety, staff wellbeing, and ethical equine care. Drawing on her background in education, counselling, and equine science, she ensures all programs are thoughtfully structured, trauma-informed, and aligned with best practice. Kristy is deeply committed to the welfare of the horses, implementing regular assessments, rest periods, and positive handling methods. She actively supports her team through clear communication, collaborative planning, and ongoing professional development, fostering a workplace culture grounded in compassion, integrity, and evidence-based care.

Kohia Schofield – Therapeutic Equine Interactions Facilitator & Behaviour Support Practitioner

Bach. of Social Science (Psychology) | Master of Social Work (In Progress)

Kohia specialises in therapeutic interventions for children in out-of-home care (OOHC) and NDIS clients, using a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach. With a strong background in psychology and a passion for equine therapy, she focuses on the healing relationship between horses, clients, and practitioners.

With experience in behaviour support and social services, Kohia works closely with children and families to help build confidence, emotional regulation, and resilience. She believes that horses provide a unique opportunity for clients to feel seen, valued, and accepted, fostering personal growth and self-awareness in a supportive environment.

Renee O’Connor – Registered Counsellor, Play Therapist & Equine Assisted Psychotherapist

Grad. Cert. Play and Art Therapy | Diploma Counselling (M.A.C.A Level 2) | Equine Assisted Psychotherapy Institute Australia

Renee brings extensive experience working with children and adolescents in Family Mental Health Support and Post Separation Support. Her therapeutic approach is child-centred, strengths-based, and trauma-informed, incorporating play, creativity, nature, and animals into the therapy space.

Passionate about using horses as co-therapists, Renee helps clients develop emotional regulation, self-awareness, and connection in a safe and supportive environment. She believes that the presence of horses fosters mindfulness and provides a unique space for healing, self-expression, and personal growth.

Bethany plays an integral role in the Balance Equine Therapies team, bringing warmth, creativity, and clinical insight to her sessions and mentorship. With qualifications in counselling, community services, and training and assessment, she draws on a broad skillset to tailor each session to the individual’s goals and needs. Bethany takes a calm, relational approach, guiding participants through gentle equine interactions, art-based practices, and emotionally safe experiences that foster trust and confidence. In addition to her client work, she supports program development, helps shape staff training, and brings a collaborative energy that supports the wellbeing of both clients and colleagues. Her passion for therapeutic connection—between people, animals, and nature—is at the heart of everything she does.

Paige brings a calm, grounded presence to her work at Balance Equine Therapies, drawing on her extensive social work experience to support participants through complex emotional and behavioural challenges. With a background in Out-of-Home Care, child protection, disability services, and domestic violence response, she offers trauma-informed, person-centred support that is both compassionate and practical. Paige works closely with families, carers, and allied health teams to ensure continuity of care and meaningful outcomes. Her sessions combine the power of relational connection, equine-assisted interactions, and nature-based therapeutic frameworks to help clients build emotional regulation, self-trust, and resilience.