About

My mother named me Phillippa, meaning 'lover of horses'

Over the past 30 years, my journey has taken me through some interesting processes and led me to a place I couldn’t have comprehended before.

From only a few months old, I was sat on a horse, and by the age of around 4, I was riding independently. My mother had named me Phillippa, meaning ‘lover of horses‘ – as if she knew. As I grew up, there was always a horse, usually more than one and definitely more than my Dad knew about. Sometimes I swear we could have 2 or 3 the same colour and hope he didn’t notice one had a star or a white sock. Growing up with horses had a profound impact on me. They were my comfort, my joy and my soulmates. I would talk to them and tell them everything, and I felt they were really listening. I believe the horse to be a great listener and healer. When we lost our mare Cassie in 2008, I closed the door on horses; it was too hard, too painful to go back after such a loss.

In 2012 through my daughter’s interest, horses came back into my life, and so did a new path. At that time, I studied non-verbal communication as my daughter was diagnosed with Autism in 2009, and I was determined to learn everything I could and help her share this information with other families. I didn’t know it, but this would have a huge part to play in the years ahead.

A horse who you may recognise, Teddy, joined our family in 2014. It’s through Teddy that I’ve learned as much as I have. Our connection was undeniable from day one. When I met him, I experienced something that hadn’t happened to me for a long time; he followed me. No training, no sending out, just Teddy picking to be with me over anything else in the large arena. Nose to shoulder, he stuck with me then. I would never forget it. I brought him home only a few days later…. he is still with me today, and he has stuck with me through thick and thin.

Over the next few years, there were ups, there were downs, and then there was change. Change is a beautiful thing, and I am embracing every moment of it. Teddy and I began a bitless journey, science-based training, communication and of course, FUN! Everything over the past 7 years and the time before has led me to this point in my life where the one thing that drives me to do what I do is the horse. Because of the horse, I will never stop seeking to understand more about them and bring to you the teachings I learn from them, from science and the heart.

I aim to help people feel good about their horses, develop their partnerships and be confident about the choices they make supported by knowledge and feeling.

If your passion is equines, we are talking the same language, and I would love to be part of your journey.

Happy Holistic Horse Days

Phillippa Christie, MCMA

Watch my story here…


Certified Equine Professional

I hold many certifications, registrations and memberships pertaining to the equine studies I have undertaken. My specialist areas of knowledge include equine behaviour, anatomy, bridle fit & management. My achievements include winning national TREC Ireland and International agility competitions as well as previous competition experience in show jumping and mounted games. These days I enjoy having fun.

Workshops & conferences I have undertaken as part of my continued development.

  • 2024 – Myofascial Kinetic Lines on the Equine Head Affected by Training and the Bridle with Dr. Rikke Schultz
  • 2023 – Clinical Biomechanics of the Equine Head with Prof. Kevin Haussler
  • 2021 – Anatomy in Action conference
  • 2020 – The Open College of Equine Studies, practical anatomy study week.
  • 2020 – Biomechanics & saddle fit with Dr R Guire
  • 2019 – Donkey Sanctuary webinars with Ben Hart
  • 2018 – IAABC conference
  • Practitioner Member of International Society Equitation Science (ISES)
  • Pet Professionals Guild Registered Equine Training Professional
  • Practitioner of Equine Psychology with the Complementary Medical Association (CMA)
  • Silver Member to International Alliance of Holistic Therapists (IAHT)
  • Approved Non-Ridden Equine UK Friendly Business
  • Approved Trainer with Orbitless

Please note that memberships are not an endorsement, but recognition of my dedication to practice.

  • Equine Anatomy & Physiology Level 5 (TOCES)
  • Equine Psychology Diploma (Distinction, Ofqual Qualification)
  • Equine Management Diploma (Distinction, Ofqual Qualification)
  • Horse Sport Ireland Coaching Certificate 
  • Level 1 Certificate in Zoopharmacognosy
  • A-level in Psychology

Freedom Values

Dedication to Improved Equine Care & Management.

My holistic approach includes the whole life of the horse – Care, Training and Well-Being. Together we can achieve a better understanding and connection with your equine partner.

Horsemanship begins with caring for the needs of the horse and making sure that they have the 5 freedoms.

If you do not feel your horse currently receives all of the above, I can work with you to improve and meet these needs.​

Work Together

Events & Teaching

I offer talks, workshops, clinics & 1:1 lessons.

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