Founders Of Strides Equestrian Therapeutic Center

Hi, my name is Heidi.

My husband and I are the owners of Strides Equestrian Therapeutic Center, which began in 2020 with the support of a dedicated and caring team. Together we have two adventurous boys and share a strong love for God, family, and serving others. Strides was created as a place where individuals and families can experience connection, growth, and encouragement through the unique partnership between humans and animals.

I grew up in Marshfield, Wisconsin, surrounded by animals of all kinds—equines, dogs, cats, birds, lizards, and fish. Horses became a special part of my life at a young age when I began taking riding lessons, and I have continued riding ever since. Teaching my family the importance of caring for animals has had a meaningful impact on both our animals and our family.

After high school, I attended UW–Stout, where I earned a degree in Early Childhood/Adolescent Education with a minor in Human Development and Family Studies. I later earned a Master’s Degree in Education and Leadership from Viterbo University. I spent thirteen years teaching in grades PK, 2nd, and 3rd, where I developed a strong appreciation for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) within the school system. These approaches provide meaningful support for children who may struggle academically, socially, or behaviorally.

Through my background in education, child development, and lifelong experience with animals, I began to recognize the powerful connection between animals and people. Horses, in particular, create opportunities for individuals to build confidence, emotional awareness, and connection. 

My family and I have experienced the benefits of this connection ourselves, which inspired us to create Strides so others could experience the same support, encouragement, and growth.

Through Strides, we provide equine-assisted services, therapeutic riding, skill development, and experiential wellness opportunities for individuals, families, and community groups. My work focuses on trauma-informed care, emotional regulation, relationship building, and experiential learning through interactions with horses.

To further support this mission, I have continued expanding my education in Equine-Assisted Services, Therapeutic Riding, Natural Lifemanship, and Skill Development. I also completed the Natural Lifemanship Dual Certification for Practitioners and Equine Professionals (NLC-P, EP), a neuroscience-informed approach that supports emotional regulation, connection, and relationship-based learning through interactions with horses. In addition, I am a PATH International Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI). I am currently pursuing my Master of Social Work (MSW) to further expand the mental health and wellness services offered within our community.

Outside of my professional work, I enjoy continuing to learn and grow in liberty horsemanship, which deepens my understanding of communication, leadership, and connection between horses and people. I am passionate about exploring brain-based and relationship-focused approaches that support both human and equine well-being. I also enjoy spending time with my family, caring for our animals, and continuing to learn new ways horses can help people grow, heal, and build confidence.

My vision for Strides Equestrian Therapeutic Center is to create a place where individuals of all ages can experience growth, healing, and connection through meaningful interactions with horses. By combining education, neuroscience-informed practices, and experiential learning, Strides aims to provide a supportive environment where people can build confidence, develop life skills, and discover their own strengths.

Credentials

• Owner & Administrator – Strides Equestrian Therapeutic Center
• Natural Lifemanship Dual Certified Practitioner & Equine Professional (NLC-P, EP)
• PATH International Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI)
• Licensed Teacher
• Licensed Administrator