iReach offers equine therapy at Murray Bridge Riding Club
“It's about fun, relaxation and finding time for yourself, something many women don’t do enough of."
This story was contributed by Suzanne Lawson-Mackenzie.
A unique equine therapy program in the Murraylands is offering women a chance to pause, connect and restore their mental wellbeing through working with horses.
The program, held at the Murray Bridge Riding Club, is designed to help participants understand and connect with ponies, offering an uplifting and healing experience.
Diana Gibbs of the Equine Assisted Practitioner Association’s Clinic Horse Therapy, and one of the lead facilitators of the iReach Murraylands equine program, said it wasn't your typical therapy session.
“It's about fun, relaxation and finding time for yourself, something many women don’t do enough of,” she said.
"Women juggle a lot, and this program gives them the chance to step back, reconnect, and realize how important it is to take time out for their mental health.
“The equine therapy program consists of two sessions, and is guided by a team of
skilled psychologists, counsellors, experienced horsewomen and volunteers.”
Participants spend time with ponies, learning to understand, groom, and manage them with respect, while also building skills that can improve mental clarity and emotional wellbeing.
"There’s so much research backing the benefits of horse therapy," Ms Gibbs said.
"When people connect with these animals, something special happens.
"They find calm, focus, and insight that’s often surprising.”
Eight women attended the last iReach session, enjoying the laughter, connection, and learning that comes from spending time with the ponies.
According to Ms Gibbs, the program was different from traditional equine-assisted therapy.
"Here, the focus is more on connection—with yourself, others, and the horses," she said.
"It’s about building insight into your life and seeing where you can make changes for the better.
"We teach boundaries, and participants leave with a sense of calm and renewed clarity."
Over the past four years, similar programs have proven highly successful, with many participants reporting life-changing experiences.
"I’ve seen individuals gain the courage to connect with others, take small risks, and slowly transform their lives," Ms Gibbs said.
"Sometimes the smallest changes lead to the biggest breakthroughs."
She envisioned a future where equine therapy became more widely available, perhaps even in specialised centers that could cater to those seeking a deeper connection through working with horses.
"This type of therapy isn’t limited to NDIS-funded programs," she said.
"It has a broader application in helping people connect with themselves and others and it’s something I hope will continue to grow in the future."
For now, the focus is on supporting participants through the current sessions, with plans to offer additional programs in the coming months.
The program is funded under primary mental health care via Country SA PHN and is open to women seeking a fun, different, and therapeutic experience.
So, what are you waiting for?
Take a step toward better mental health and well-being with a Murraylands equine therapy program.
Whether you’ve worked with ponies before or it’s your first time, you’ll leave feeling more connected, calmer, and ready to take on the world!
The next two-part session is planned soon, and places are limited.
- Register: all iReach Murray Bridge on 8531 1303.
- Get help: Talk to your GP; find a local service that suits you at murraymallee.servicesdirectory.org.au; call Lifeline on 13 11 14; or, in an emergency, call 000.
