​Looking back, I can see how every experience has led me to where I am today. My journey with the healing power of horses began when I was a child. I was fortunate to ride and care for horses from a young age, and when old enough I was able to support children, young people, and adults with disabilities in horse riding, and from that moment, horses have had such a positive influence on my life. I’ve had the honour of connecting with some incredibly special horses who have not only guided me but also challenged and supported my personal and professional growth. More recently, I’ve been lucky to partner with MacGyver, and together we volunteered for two years with Denmark Horsepower, where we shared MacGyver’s natural gifts with others who may not have otherwise had the chance to experience the magic of horses.

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My deep love for animals led me to complete a Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, which opened the door for me to work as a registered Veterinary Nurse. It was an incredibly rewarding experience. Beyond my nursing duties, I was so grateful for the opportunity to help stray and rescued dogs heal, both physically and emotionally. Watching them transform into happy, healthy companions and find loving forever homes with people and families who needed them just as much was truly heart-warming.  

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In 2006, life took me in a different direction and led me to work in human services. I immediately fell in love with the field and spent the next 17 years working alongside children and young people in foster care, their families, and foster carers. I am forever grateful to those who shared their stories with me and to the amazing professionals who helped me grow. My passion for helping others continued to grow, leading me to complete a Bachelor of Social Work through Edith Cowan University. Now I’m incredibly proud to be registered with the Australian Association of Social Workers.

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Like many of us, I’ve experienced life’s ups and downs, and I’ve been so fortunate to have a strong support system. Along with my wonderful human family, my dog Micky was an absolute champion for me. His wisdom helped me find a calm, peaceful way of being. It was Micky who guided me to pursue Animal-Assisted Therapy, leading me to complete a Clinical Course through Therapy Dogs Australia. It wasn't long after completing this course that I met Fonzi. He was just 9 weeks old when we met, and now, he’s grown into an amazing therapy dog, benefiting from everything I’ve learned over the years. Fonzi is both a valued member of my family, and a reliable co-facilitator in our therapy sessions. 

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Fonzi and I officially graduated as a Therapy Dog Team in 2024, and I’m so proud of all we’ve accomplished together. I even got the chance to share our story on the Therapy Dogs Australia podcast, season 3, episode 11. I also graduated as an Equine Assisted Wellbeing Practitioner from the Equine Assisted Wellbeing Institute in October 2024, and I’m excited to incorporate these skills into my work.

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Currently, I’m fortunate to work in a mental health and parenting service, providing therapeutic care to individuals and families. It’s a role that allows me to blend my skills and passion for helping others, and it’s also been a wonderful way to continue developing my practice as a social worker. I’ve particularly enjoyed growing my expertise in Play Therapy and Parenting Support, and it’s been incredible to see the positive impact it has on children and families.

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All of these experiences have come together to bring me to this moment, where I’m so excited to offer therapy services through Peaceful Paddocks Wellness Services. I feel incredibly honoured to work with both the people and animals who are part of this journey, and am deeply committed to respecting, protecting, and celebrating them. I am so grateful for the beautiful environment I get to work in, and I can’t wait to meet you soon!