189 East Hungerford Road
Tweed, ON K0K 3J0

613-970-1226
araequuseal@gmail.com

Having spent most of her childhood on the south coast of Newfoundland, Susan’s life began with challenges beyond what many people can begin to imagine.  She has had to rise above illness, oppression, trauma and near-death experiences in order to find her place in the world, experiences that destined her to inspire, guide and impart wisdom to all those she meets. She personifies hope, courage, and compassion and has channelled her energy into helping others find their way.  

Susan brings a diverse mix of academic, athletic and life experiences. Her professional career began as a Phys. Ed teacher but was interrupted by illness after a few short years. After moving to Ontario in search of answers that would help her heal, she completed her master’s in kinesiology. She began playing an active and meaningful role in community advocacy, was featured in several documentary films and courageously lent her voice as a public speaker, activities that she continues to this day.  In 2002, Susan was awarded the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal for her role in raising awareness of mental health, eating disorders, abuse and violence against women and children.

She has always been passionate about non-conventional approaches to mental health and wellness. Animals have been a part of her life since childhood so not surprisingly, mindfulness and connecting with the spirit of nature were her lifeline. Her introduction to horses was at a rescue where she met a traumatized mare who had just given birth and was very protective over her foal. Susan felt quite privileged that the mare was not threatened by her presence, and felt a deep connection to another being with whom she realized a common understanding. 

The next time Susan came close to a horse was years later, in 2016 when she was gifted an equine healing experience. After spending a weekend retreat with the herd, Susan had achieved more enlightenment from horses than she had from years of conventional therapy. She was drawn towards the power, spirit and wisdom of these majestic beings and set out to discover how she could partner with them to help others. In 2020, she purchased a farm with her partner and in 2021, brought home her Clydesdale, Gus and Standardbred, Thunder. They were later joined by her donkey, Joey in 2023. Susan is also a certified EAL Facilitator along with her partner who is qualifying as a psychotherapist in order to join her at Ara Equus. Together they share their farm with 9 parrots, her King German Shepherd Jasmine, and their cat Woody, the proud master of the barn. 

At Ara Equus, as a certified FEEL® practitioner, Susan offers private individual and small group sessions inviting you to try a new way to restore your inner power, reclaim your authentic self, discover your path to emotional freedom and connect with the undeniable spirit of horses. Additionally, she offers equine-assisted learning opportunities to help people build resilience and enhance their experiences at work, school and in their community.