In this episode of The Great Guns Podcast, host James Scott sits down with Jo-Anne Karlsson — psychotherapist, equine-facilitated practitioner, and director of LEAP Equine — to explore the remarkable intersection of horses, healing, and human connection.

Jo-Anne shares her journey from traditional therapy rooms to working in open fields alongside her herd, explaining how horses’ non-judgmental presence and innate sensitivity can help clients process trauma, navigate PTSD, and rebuild trust. From service personnel to corporate leaders, teenagers to families, she reveals why this approach works for such a wide range of people — and why sometimes, the most profound breakthroughs happen without saying a single word.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Presence – Horses live entirely in the moment, responding authentically to the energy and behaviour of the person in front of them.
• Choice Matters – Jo-Anne’s herd is never forced to engage; this freedom makes interactions genuine and meaningful.
• Right Fit = Real Progress – Therapy works best when there’s trust, comfort, and the right personality match between client and practitioner.
• Nature Heals – Being outdoors removes the “spotlight” pressure of a therapy room and creates space for openness.
• Two-Way Street – Healing isn’t just for the person struggling; it’s about understanding the people around you, too.
• Small Steps Count – Even tiny breakthroughs — like sitting calmly near a chicken — can be deeply therapeutic.

• “Horses don’t judge. They’re not thinking ahead or looking back — they’re responding to you, right here, right now.” – Jo-Anne Karlsson
• “If you can’t be vulnerable with your therapist, you’re not making the best use of your time or money.” – Jo-Anne Karlsson

• “Nature has a way of lowering our barriers before we even realise it’s happening.” – James Scott

• “Sometimes it’s high impact in the moment, sometimes the links form days later — but the shift comes.” – Jo-Anne Karlsson

• “It’s not about using the horses; it’s about inviting them to work alongside us.” – Jo-Anne Karlsson

LEAP Equine: www.leapequine.com

Jo-Anne Karlsson: www.joannekarlsson.com