Our Team

Katie Tasker

Counsellor, Equine Assisted Therapy Practitioner, Founder of Grounded Steps Equine Assisted Therapy


Hi, I’m Katie, and I’m the person behind Grounded Steps Equine Assisted Therapy and Counselling.

I started Grounded Steps out of a true love for horses, people, and the quiet support found in being outside in nature. I have spent much of my life around horses and animals, and I have seen how powerful it can be when people have space to slow down, explore and connect in new ways.

My approach is warm, genuine, down-to-earth, and practical. I believe therapy should feel respectful, safe, and human. I take time to understand each person’s needs, comfort levels, goals, and unique ways of experiencing the world.

Along with my counselling training and experience with horses, I also have lived experience and a personal understanding of neurodiversity, including Autism and ADHD. This shapes how I work, with a strong focus on acceptance, individual needs, emotional safety, sensory awareness, and supporting people in ways that feel realistic and respectful.

As a counsellor specialising in Equine Assisted Mental Health, I bring together counselling knowledge, lived experience with horses, trauma-informed practice, awareness of the nervous system, and a strong respect for the wellbeing of both clients and animals.

Grounded Steps is here to help people better understand themselves, build confidence, strengthen relationships, and take their own grounded steps forward.

Our horses at Grounded Steps are an important part of the therapeutic environment.

Each horse has its own personality, preferences, boundaries, and way of communicating. Some are calm and steady, some are curious, some are sensitive, and some prefer space.

We believe horses should always be treated as sentient beings, not as tools or equipment. We respect their well-being, including their emotional and physical health.

Working respectfully with horses gives clients the chance to practice empathy, observation, boundaries,
patience, communication, and trust.

Our Horses

Nina

Nina is a chestnut Paint Horse mare who is 3 years old and has been part of Katie’s family since she was 6 months old. She is young, playful and curious, and keeps the herd on their toes.

Mika

Mika is a beautiful bay Quarter Horse mare who was bred by Katie.  At 17 years old, she has a grounded, patient nature and a calm presence.

Leah

Leah a palomino Stock Horse mare who is 12 years old. She is sweet, sensitive, and responsive, and loves her gentle cuddles. We are lucky that Leah’s owner allowed her to join the farm around two years ago.

Asta

Asta is a brown Thoroughbred cross mare who is 17 years old and has been part of Katie’s family for 17 years.   She has a sweet, soft, and thoughtful presence.

Curly & Caramilk


Curly and Caramilk are also part of the team.  They love a good scratch.