Jemma Elle Michael, business owner of ‘My Healing Horses’ MCouns, BEd (Hons), GradDipEd (Sec) BVA (Fine Art), Dip Equine Psychology, EA Horse Management/Riding I am fortunate enough to work in the not-for-profit space as a trauma and polyvagal informed counsellor (PACFA/ACA) assisting women in their mental health recoveries. I enjoy engaging with community and stakeholders at all levels. I have extended myself to work in suicide intervention, disaster management and a member of the Alliance for Suicide Prevention Sunshine Coast and MHPN. I also maintain current registration as an experienced Secondary teacher (QCT/VIT). In 2024 I received a scholarship to study at the Polyvagal Institute (Colorado, US) and was a guest speaker at the Animal Therapies Ltd conference in Brisbane presenting on narratives inspired by horse interactions. In earlier years, I pursued work in creativity in music and visual art education and received a Monash University Jubilee Honours Scholarship. As a teenager I discovered the equine assisted therapeutic space with a very special Arabian horse. This began my foundation for lifelong learning and curiosity with horses. From humble beginnings I established myself as a professional horsewoman with ‘many miles in the saddle’! My collaborative work involves development of early intervention & low intensity mental health programs, equine assisted therapy, outreach opportunities for rural women, facilitation of therapeutic groups and public speaking about mental health & wellbeing. I look forward to sharing my knowledge and experience to facilitate others in their quest for mental health recovery and empowerment.