Path of the Horse - Psychotherapy & Counselling

Path of the Horse - Psychotherapy & Counselling Psychotherapy & Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy. Military Veterans. NDIS, general public. All seeking better mental health. Trentham VIC Horses helping us heal.
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Psychotherapy, Counselling and Equine Assisted Learning and Psychotherapy. At the Path of the Horse we aim to assist people of all ages and from all walks of life who seek better mental health and well-being. Our work is a powerful, effective and empathetic approach that assists our clients make positive change. We help people become more self-aware about themselves which will enable them to make clearer choices about their lives. Through bringing about ‘awareness’, we work on ways to help heal, manage, build resilience, enjoy better relationships, and maintain better mental health. We welcome people just the way they are along with all their feelings and emotions. We proudly support Australian Defense Force (ADF) members both serving and veterans along with their families. We assist many from all walks of life better manage conditions such as PTSD, anxiety and depression. We help young people discover coping mechanisms and assist them to understand their feelings and make aware choices. We work with people with Autism, those battling addictions, self-harm, grief and many other conditions. We work with many wonderful NDIS participants of all ages from 3 to 88 to work on and achieve their goals. Why Horses

Horses model some wonderful behaviors for us to follow when we learn to listen and walk their path. Horses live in a constant state of awareness that has enabled them to survive for millions of years. They always notice what is happening in their environment, what is happening with their feelings and their bodies. Horses have an amazing ability to release stress and a truly unique capacity to share their empathy with humans. They never judge, they are completely honest and are our much-loved assistants in the healing process. They are great listeners too. No previous horse experience is required, just an open mind and a willingness to encounter a new way of allowing yourself to feel. You may be invited to meet the whole herd, take time groom one, participate in controlled lead work, perhaps a mounted experience or just share space with one of the herd that you feel drawn to. What we do

We offer general Psychotherapy and Counselling and Also Equine Psychotherapy and learning. Our clients are invited to take part in safe activities with the horses and then if they wish, process their experience, feelings and thoughts. Many of the experiences people have with our herd relates readily to life situations and can offer the opportunity to explore how we are in our relationships with others or how we are coping with life’s challenges. We will also demonstrate techniques that help people be calm and regain control. We focus entirely on supporting individuals and their needs in private sessions. We also assist various organisations to build stronger relationships through improved understanding, communication, and leadership. Maintaining our clients physical and emotional safety and that of our herd is our priority always. We also offer extended programs which are a comprehensive and will take individuals or groups through Awareness, Boundaries, Feelings, Thoughts and Facing Challenges. We are not a riding school or trail riding business. Who We Are

The Path of the Horse is a Registered Charity with the Australian Charities and Not for Profits Commission. All proceeds to the Charity to support our clients, horses and operations. Dean Mighell is the Founder, Director and certified Clinical Counsellor and Gestalt Psychotherapist and a member of the Psychotherapists and Counsellors Federation of Australia. Dean is a national award winning Equine Assisted Learning and Psychotherapy practitioner and has also done trauma training and is currently studying at the Gestalt Institute of Australia. Our Board is made up of volunteer Directors committed to the Charity and good governance. We are greatly assisted by a dedicated group of Volunteers, Veterans and locals. Where we are located

The Path of the Horse operates very near the township of Trentham in Victoria’s Central Highlands an hour’s drive north of Melbourne along the Calder or Western Highways. We are surrounded by the beautiful Wombat State Forest and in a “Special Protection Zone” that supports conservation of our wildlife and habitat. To find us, drive 1.7kms from the center of Trentham along Cosmo Rd towards Blackwood then turn right on to Domino Rd (signposted on your left) and head west, our gate is 1.9kms on the right and clearly signed. Contact Us

Call Dean Mighell on 0418354362 for further information or look us up on Facebook @ The Path of the Horse. www.pathofthehorse.com.au

Please Support Us

We are a self-funded Charity. Ensuring we have trained, happy and healthy horses and maintaining the property we lease is a time consuming and expensive proposition and we need all the help we can get. If you can assist us with a donation to help us support our clients, sponsor a horse, provide horse feed or improve our facilities please contact us. All support is greatly appreciated.

What Our Clients Say ..."It's a place I can go to relax and forget about the reality of depression that haunts me on a d...
27/01/2026

What Our Clients Say ...

"It's a place I can go to relax and forget about the reality of depression that haunts me on a daily basis.
Wandering around with the horses and being one with them brings me back to myself.
It's as if they actually know how much you are suffering and comfort you as you brush your hand against their body.
It's a very relaxing and calming experience.”

Not knowing what to expect can feel uncomfortable, especially when you’re trying something new.From the moment you arriv...
22/01/2026

Not knowing what to expect can feel uncomfortable, especially when you’re trying something new.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll be warmly welcomed just as you are.

We take time to gently walk you through what to expect, so you can feel informed, supported and at ease before anything begins.

When you arrive, you can expect:
• To be warmly welcomed just as you are
• Large undercover arenas to keep you comfortable during all types of weather
• Peaceful and natural surroundings
• Well-established, comfortable indoor facilities with tea and coffee-making facilities
• Wheelchair accessible bathroom and toilet facilities
• Beautiful horses and wonderful kelpies who share the space with us
• Highly qualified, caring and empathetic clinicians who walk alongside you

We are not a riding school or trail-riding business.

Ready to take the first step?
Get in touch to ask questions, learn more, or book when you’re ready.

Contact Dean on 0418 354 362 or Kerryn on 0431 763 203

Ever wondered what it’s like to simply be with horses? We also offer Non-Therapy Sessions – Getting to Know Horses Relat...
20/01/2026

Ever wondered what it’s like to simply be with horses?

We also offer Non-Therapy Sessions – Getting to Know Horses Relationally.
A calm, welcoming experience for individuals, couples, families, and small groups.

There’s no therapy involved and no pressure to “do” anything.
Just unhurried time, shared space, and the freedom to connect at a pace that feels safe and comfortable for you.

These sessions gently invite you to learn and experience “the way of the horse” (how horses communicate, relate, and experience the world) while spending quiet, meaningful time with our herd.

Come as you are. Spend time with our horses. Simply connect and enjoy their company.

It’s gentle.
It’s grounded.
It’s relational.
It's connection, the Path of the Horse way.

To enquire or book your session, contact Dean on 0418 354 362

January School Holiday Programs — Limited Spots AvailableSchool holidays are the perfect time to pause, reset, and build...
17/01/2026

January School Holiday Programs — Limited Spots Available

School holidays are the perfect time to pause, reset, and build skills that last, while supported by gentle horses, nature, and experienced practitioners.

Primary School Holiday Program (Ages 7–12 years)
Our Primary School Program gives children the chance to:
• Team up with gentle horses
• Build confidence and social skills
• Play, explore, and connect in nature
A supportive, engaging space where children can grow, learn, and have fun outdoors.

Secondary School Holiday Program (Ages 13–15 years)
Designed especially for teenagers, this program offers opportunities to:
• Learn about body language, boundaries, emotional regulation, and mindfulness
• Learn horse safety with hands-on grooming and leading
• Relax, recharge, and reset in a calm, natural environment

Program Details
Dates: Tuesday 20th OR Tuesday 27th January 2026
Primary School Holiday Program Time: 9.30 am to 12 pm
Secondary School Holiday Program Time: 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Location: Trentham, Victoria
Cost: $100 per session

Bookings are essential as places are limited.
Secure your child’s or teenager’s place today.

Kerryn Mitchell: 0431 763 203
Email: kerryn@pathofthehorse.com.au

11/01/2026

At Animal Therapies Ltd, we often hear animal-assisted therapy described as an alternative therapy. It’s time to correct that misconception.

Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is a clinical modality, not an alternative treatment.

When delivered appropriately, AAT is provided by registered health professionals — such as psychologists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, counsellors and other health practitioners — who integrate an animal into their therapeutic practice within their professional scope, regulatory standards, and ethical frameworks.

The animal is not the therapist.
The animal is not the treatment.

The animal is a therapeutic support, intentionally and carefully incorporated by a qualified clinician to support evidence-informed goals such as:
• emotional regulation
• trauma recovery
• engagement and motivation
• functional skill development
• therapeutic rapport and safety

Like other recognised modalities, animal-assisted therapy:
✔ is goal-directed
✔ is professionally accountable
✔ requires clinical reasoning and risk management
✔ must meet both human and animal welfare standards

When we understand animal-assisted therapy as a modality, we protect clients, practitioners, animals — and the integrity of the work itself.

29/12/2025
27/12/2025

They said horses don’t understand words.
But no one ever explained how this one understood truth.

The old mare had a cloudy left eye, scarred from years of hard work and harder humans. Yet when you stood in front of her, she looked straight through you — not with fear, not with hope, but with knowing.

Children could run and shout around her. She never flinched.
But when someone came carrying anger, impatience, or cruelty in their chest… her eye would harden. She would step away. Always.

A man once asked a trainer, “Why doesn’t she like me?”
The trainer answered quietly, “She does. She just sees you.”

Because a horse’s eye doesn’t judge your face.
It reads your soul.

And sometimes, that truth is harder to face than silence.
👁️✨

25/12/2025
We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our clients, supporters and friends for their support throughout the ye...
23/12/2025

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our clients, supporters and friends for their support throughout the year.

Kerryn returns from leave on 18 January, 2026, and Dean will be taking some time off from 29 December, 2025, until 20 January 2026.

From all of us at Path of the Horse - Psychotherapy & Counselling, (humans, horses and kelpies), we wish you a wonderful festive season and a safe and Happy New Year!

Looking for a last minute Christmas gift that makes a difference? Just $5 helps us keep healing.As we enter the Christma...
23/12/2025

Looking for a last minute Christmas gift that makes a difference? Just $5 helps us keep healing.

As we enter the Christmas season, we’re facing one of the most challenging times we’ve ever had. If you’ve ever felt the impact of our work or believe in what we do, we’re asking for your support.

Path of the Horse - Psychotherapy & Counselling has always existed to support people who need gentle, empathetic care: veterans, first responders, young people, families, and community members navigating trauma, anxiety, depression and everything in between. Our herd has helped so many rediscover calm, connection and hope.

A small weekly donation of just $5 will make a meaningful difference.

It’s the price of a coffee, but it helps us:
* Keep our horses healthy and cared for
* Continue supporting clients who otherwise couldn’t access therapy
* Sustain the programs that change lives
It may seem like a little… but for us, it’s everything.

If you’re able, please consider joining Badger’s Coffee Club, our community of supporters who donate $5-$10 a week to help us stay open and continue this work.
👉 Join here: https://www.pathofthehorse.com.au/donate

Truth. We are here to help.
18/12/2025

Truth. We are here to help.

Our therapy horses change lives, but right now keeping them cared for is harder than ever.A small weekly donation of jus...
18/12/2025

Our therapy horses change lives, but right now keeping them cared for is harder than ever.

A small weekly donation of just $5 will make a meaningful difference.
It’s the price of a coffee, but it helps us:
* Keep our horses healthy and cared for
* Continue supporting clients who otherwise couldn’t access therapy
* Sustain the programs that change lives

It may seem like a little… but for us, it’s everything.

👉 Join and donate here: https://www.pathofthehorse.com.au/donate

Address

351 Domino Road
Trentham, VIC
3458

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 6pm
Wednesday 9am - 5:30pm
Thursday 9am - 5:30pm
Friday 9am - 5:30pm
Saturday 10am - 3pm

Telephone

+61418354362

Alerts

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Our Story

Horses helping us heal. At the Path of the Horse we aim to assist people of all ages and from all walks of life who seek better mental health and well-being. Our work is a powerful, effective and an empathetic approach that assists our clients make positive change. We help people become more self-aware about themselves and identify patterns and themes in their lives that may not be serving them well. It is this awareness that enables people to make better choices about their lives. Through bringing about ‘awareness’, we work on ways to help manage, build resilience, enjoy better relationships, and maintain better mental health. We welcome people just the way they are along with all their feelings and emotions. We proudly support veterans, emergency service personnel and their families and others better manage conditions such as PTSD, anxiety and depression. We help young people discover coping mechanisms and assist them to understand their feelings and make aware choices. We work with people with Autism, those battling addictions, self-harm, grief and many other conditions. . Why Horses Horses model some wonderful behaviours for us to follow when we learn to listen and walk their path. Horses live in a constant state of awareness that has enabled them to survive for millions of years. They always notice what is happening in their environment, what is happening with their feelings and their bodies.

Horses have an amazing ability to release stress and a truly unique capacity to share their empathy with humans. They never judge, they are completely honest and are our much-loved assistants in the healing process. They are great listeners too. No previous horse experience is required, just an open mind and a willingness to encounter a new way of allowing yourself to feel. You may be invited to meet the whole herd, take time groom one, participate in controlled lead work, perhaps a mounted experience or just share space with one of the herd that you feel drawn to. What we do Our clients are invited to take part in safe activities with the horses and then if they wish, process their experience, feelings and thoughts. Many of the experiences people have with our herd relates readily to life situations and can offer the opportunity to explore how we are in our relationships with others or how we are coping with life’s challenges. We will also demonstrate techniques that help people be calm and regain control. We focus entirely on supporting individuals and their needs in private sessions. We also assist various organisations to build stronger relationships through improved understanding, communication, and leadership. Maintaining our clients physical and emotional safety and that of our herd is our priority always. We also offer the Horse Wisdom Program (TM Equine Psychotherapy Institute) which is a comprehensive program that will take individuals or groups through Awareness, Boundaries, Feelings, Thoughts and Facing Challenges. We are not a riding school or trail riding business. Who We Are The Path of the Horse is a Registered Charity with the Australian Charities and Not for Profits Commission. All proceeds to the Charity to support our clients, horses and operations. Dean Mighell is the Founder, Director and Practitioner. Dean trained with and is a qualified Gestalt Councillor (GTA Advanced Cert in Gestalt Relational Counselling), qualified in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Learning and has also done trauma training and is currently studying Psychotherapy at the Gestalt Institute of Australia. Our Board is made up of volunteer Directors committed to the Charity and good governance. We are greatly assisted by a dedicated group of Volunteers, Veterans and locals. Where we are located The Path of the Horse operates very near the township of Trentham in Victoria’s Central Highlands an hour’s drive north of Melbourne along the Calder or Western Highways. We are surrounded by the beautiful Wombat State Forest and in a “Special Protection Zone” that supports conservation of our wildlife and habitat. To find us, drive 1.7kms from the centre of Trentham along Cosmo Rd towards Blackwood then turn right on to Domino Rd (signposted on your left) and head west, our gate is 1.9kms on the right and clearly signed. Contact Us Call Dean Mighell on 0418354362 for further information or look us up on Facebook @ The Path of the Horse. www.pathofthehorse.com.au Please Support Us We are a self-funded Charity. Ensuring we have trained, happy and healthy horses and maintaining the property we lease is a time consuming and expensive proposition and we need all the help we can get. If you can assist us with a donation to help us support our clients, sponsor a horse, provide horse feed or improve our facilities please contact us. All support is greatly appreciated.