Sport Psychology for Equestrian Athletes

 Whether you're a seasoned competitor or just starting out, the mental side of equestrian sport can be just as challenging as the physical. As a registered Psychologist and active competitor in cutting horse events, I understand firsthand the unique pressures riders face—because I’ve lived them.

Equestrian athletes juggle complex physical skills, emotional regulation, and a deep connection with their horses. Performance anxiety, fear of failure, loss of confidence, and mental blocks can all interfere with your ability to ride at your best. Sport psychology helps you develop the mental tools to overcome these challenges and unlock your full potential.

I’m not just a Psychologist—I’m also a rider. I’ve competed across a range of equine disciplines including dressage, show jumping, eventing, and now cutting horses, where I’ve found my competitive stride. My journey has included overcoming significant performance anxiety and self-doubt. Through sport psychology techniques, I transformed my mindset and now compete with confidence and clarity.

This lived experience allows me to connect deeply with my clients. I understand the emotional highs and lows, the pressure of competition, and the unique relationship between horse and rider. My goal is to help you build the same mental strength and resilience that changed my own riding career.

As a Psychologist with extensive experience supporting children, teens, and adults, I can offer clients of all ages the expertise required to help them develop the mental skills needed to perform at their best. Through evidence-based strategies, I empower riders to overcome challenges, achieve their goals, and unlock their full potential—both in and out of the arena.

Individual Consultations
Tailored one-on-one sessions for riders who want to:

• Manage competition nerves and anxiety
• Improve focus and mental clarity
• Build confidence and self-belief
• Recover from setbacks or injuries
• Strengthen rider-horse communication
• Set and achieve meaningful goals
• Learn strategies to quickly and effectively learn new skills

 Workshops, and Clinics

For clubs or teams looking to elevate their group’s performance, custom workshops and clinics offer a tailored approach to mental skills development and practical riding applications.  Whether the focus is on team building, overcoming competition nerves, or mastering advanced riding strategies, each session is crafted to provide valuable, relevant tools and techniques. These workshops are suitable for all disciplines and can be scheduled at times and locations that best fit the group’s availability.

Group Sessions

Gather a small group of friends and take part in a Group Session designed to help you build essential mental skills for riding and competition. These sessions create a supportive and interactive environment where participants work together to strengthen their confidence, learn strategies to manage performance anxiety, and develop a positive mindset. Sessions focus on practical exercises and open discussions, enabling each rider to apply psychological tools to real-world riding scenarios. The intimate format encourages sharing experiences and learning from one another, making the process both effective and enjoyable.

Contact Deena to find out more:

• Competitive riders at all levels
• Recreational riders seeking more enjoyment and confidence
• Young riders navigating pressure and expectations
• Coaches and parents supporting equestrian athletes

 If you're ready to take your mental game to the next level, I’d love to support you. Whether you're struggling with nerves or striving for peak performance, sport psychology can make a powerful difference.  Contact me today to find out how I can help you achieve your goals.