Do I need any experience with horses?
No. Most people who come to Field of Healing have never handled a horse, and a lot of them are nervous about it. Annabel sets everything up and stays with you throughout. Being unsure is a perfectly normal starting point and nothing you need to sort out beforehand.
Is there any riding?
No, none. Every session is ground-based from start to finish. Nobody gets on a horse at any point, so you do not need riding experience, boots, a helmet or any equestrian gear.
What should I wear?
Closed-in shoes you do not mind getting dirty, and clothes you can move in and would not mind getting dusty or muddy. Long trousers are more comfortable than shorts around horses and long grass.
The Bellarine weather does what it likes, so dress for the day you actually have: a hat and sunscreen in summer, a warm waterproof layer in winter. Layers you can take off are better than one heavy coat.
What should I bring?
A water bottle is the main thing, especially in warmer months. A hat and sunscreen in summer. Beyond that, nothing — everything else is provided.
If you are bringing a child, it can help to bring something familiar for the drive home, since sessions can leave people quiet and thoughtful.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Sessions run in most weather, since being outdoors is part of the work. If conditions are genuinely unsafe — high winds, storms, extreme heat — Annabel will be in touch to reschedule. If you are unsure on the day, call or text her.
What is the cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel or move a session, let Annabel know as early as you can so the time can be offered to someone else. Please call or text 0419 530 744 rather than emailing if it is close to your appointment.
How long is a session, and how many will I need?
Sessions run for an hour. How many people need varies a great deal — some come for a handful, others keep going for much longer. Annabel will talk through what seems reasonable after the first session or two rather than asking you to commit to a block up front.
Can I use NDIS funding?
Yes. Field of Healing is a registered NDIS provider. Talk to Annabel about how sessions fit with your plan before you book, since it depends on how your plan is managed.
Do you work with children and teenagers?
Yes, with both primary and secondary aged clients. Parents are welcome to talk things through with Annabel first, and it usually helps if they do — a short conversation about what has been going on makes the first session easier for everyone.
Can a parent or support person stay?
Talk to Annabel when you book. What works best depends on the person and what they are coming for.
What are your fees?
Call or text Annabel on 0419 530 744 to ask about current session fees and availability.
Where exactly do I go?
Sessions are held in Wallington, on the Bellarine Peninsula — a short drive from Ocean Grove, Barwon Heads, Drysdale and Geelong, and around forty minutes from Torquay. Annabel gives you the full address and directions when your session is confirmed.
Still have a question?
Call or text Annabel directly. She is happy to talk it through before you book anything.