Our Story
The R.E.A.L Equestrian is the creation of Åsa Hoffmann, a licensed psychotherapist with a deep love for humanity and horses. In her 20 years of working with clients and horses, one thing became strikingly clear; to find wellness, to feel good, and to have a great relationship with our horses, we first need to - GET R.E.A.L.
The majority of people move about life pretending to be ok. We shut down our emotional world and just keep moving, keep working, keep doing what needs to be done. When we have moments of feeling sad, scared, or worried, we close off from others and push through, or we break down and hide. We've developed coping mechanisms to manage life, but we are disconnected from our bodies, and we are closed off from each other.
Humans, just like horses, are herd animals. We actually need one another, and what we need more than anything is true connection.
The R.E.A.L Equestrian is about healthy relationships, effective communication, authentic living and becoming the leader your horse wants you to be.
Åsa Hoffman, MA, LMFT
Åsa is a licensed psychotherapist, certified Gestalt Equine Psychotherapist, Centered Riding Level I Instructor and Harmony Horsemanship Level III clinician and holds certificates in Conscious Nutrition, and Sivananda Yoga. She has dedicated the past 20 years to working as a therapist and coach with youth and adults.
Åsa spends most days with horses, both her own and clients. She loves learning and upping her game in the saddle. She's an eventer, who also enjoys the thrill of fox hunting.
Åsa is the founder of The Institute for Equine Assisted Practices INC and developed Embodied Equine Psychotherapy™. She leads certification programs and clinics throughout the US and Canada.
For the past 7 years, Åsa has been focused on working with equestrians. In combining performance psychology, mental, physical and emotional wellness, she helps clients get clear on who they are and strategize ways to unlock their highest potential, both in and out of the tack.
Åsa works with amateurs and professionals, competitive and non-competitive riders. Working with her is never just about winning a show, it's about loving your life and feeling fantastic about your ride, which is the REAL victory.