The Illawarra Women’s Trauma Recovery Centre is embracing the transformative power of nature by launching a groundbreaking equine-assisted learning program, Healing with Horses.
Designed for women who are experiencing or have previously experienced domestic, family and/or sexual violence, the new initiative will take place at Nest Equine and Nature Assisted Learning, a peaceful 90-acre property in Dunmore, where eight gentle horses (including a miniature horse) are ready to become guides on the journey toward recovery.
The eight-week program is grounded in The Horse Wisdom Program developed by the Equine Psychotherapy Institute, which uses therapeutic interaction with horses to help participants rebuild trust, set boundaries, and reconnect with themselves.
‘This is really exciting for us,’ Social and Creative Expression Coordinator, Alex Mlodziejewski said.
“We’ve partnered with Lauren Dawson who has eight horses and ponies – ranging from miniature to about 15 hands. She’s trained in equine-assisted learning and brings incredible experience to the program.”
The structured program focuses on relational healing and personal development through interaction with horses. Each week, participants will explore a theme such as leadership, boundaries, or emotional regulation – skills often disrupted or lost due to trauma.
“The first few weeks are about simply being around the horses. No touching, just learning how to exist in their space,” Alex explained.
“Horses are incredibly present. They’re herd animals and deeply tuned into co-regulation. Just by being with them, women can start to feel safe again in their own bodies.”
Alex added that the approach allows participants to build a relationship with the animals.
Unlike traditional horse-riding or animal interaction programs, the Healing with Horses program will emphasise consent and mutual engagement.
“In our sessions, if a horse doesn’t want to be approached or haltered, we honour that,” said Alex.
“The idea is to view horses as sentient beings with a choice in the relationship. It’s not about control; it’s about connection.”
This mutual respect fosters a safe environment where participants learn to listen to themselves, to others, and to the unspoken communication of body language.
For women who may feel hesitant or even frightened by the idea of being around large animals, the program offers a thoughtful progression.
“We have mini ponies too, which can help ease people into the experience,” Alex said.
“The entire process is slow, safe, and contained. There’s no expectation of past experience with horses.”
Healing with Horses is one of many groups and services at the Illawarra Women’s Trauma Recovery Centre. The Centre recently announced it had partnered with the Yoga Foundation to provide an eight-week trauma-sensitive class.
The Centre also provides a self-care group, mind, body and connection group, walking group and music group, among other services.
The Healing with Horses program will start on Tuesday, July 29 at 9.30am.
Contact us to register your interest on 4243 9800.
