Merja Sumiloff | Psychology-Based Horsemanship Claimed

Merja Sumiloff is Australia’s only Psychology-Based Horsemanship and Equine-Assisted Empowerment coach, specializing in trauma recovery for horses and humans. With over 40 years of equestrian experience, Merja brings a unique combination of expertise to her work:

Qualifications & Expertise

• Certified Happy Horse Happy Life (HHHL) Instructor and Mentor – Linda Parelli’s only Australian instructor teaching the “How To Talk Horse” curriculum
• Author of Safe Spaces and The Awakened Equestrian books, plus multiple best-selling healing and self-mastery courses
• Certified MBTI® practitioner applying personality psychology to horsemanship
• Certified Classical & Orthopedic Massage Therapist with specialisation in physical pain management
• Personal and Professional Development Master Mentor & Mentor Trainer
• Bush Fire Fighter at RFS NSW

Horsemanship Philosophy

Merja’s approach centers on understanding horse psychology, nervous system regulation, and communication without force or coercion. She works extensively with traumatised, aggressive, and reactive horses, helping them—and their humans—find safe spaces for healing and connection.

Her teaching emphasises the 4 Horse Behavior Quadrants, helping horse owners decode natural behavior, improve communication, and strengthen partnerships using psychology rather than dominance.

Services & Programs

• Horsemanship Lessons & Clinics – “How To Talk Horse” curriculum for deeper understanding of horse psychology
• Pony Camps for Grown-ups – Reconnecting adults with the joy, play, and freedom of horses
• Private Horse Experiences – Tailored programs for older adults and NDIS participants
• Trauma-Informed Training – Specialised work with reactive and aggressive horses

Merja started her horsemanship journey at age 5 on a Finnish Draft Horse named Donut. Since then, she has studied equine science, worked in international competition yards, and taught thousands of students to become more authentic in their lives and their sport.

Contact Merja:
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.merjasumiloff.com

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