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Meet Melissa...
Melissa Costello, CCSPsy,
Equine Facilitated Learning Coach
A Life Rooted in Healing, Horses, and Heart
From a very young age, I felt a deep connection to animals—especially horses. My mom was a veterinary technician, and our home was often filled with rescued birds, cats, dogs, and other animals she lovingly brought in.
Though we didn’t have much money growing up, I would dream of having a horse of my own. I’d watch horse shows in awe, silently imagining myself in the saddle, deeply yearning to be a part of that world.
I took a few riding lessons as a child and enjoyed the occasional trail ride, but it wasn’t until I moved to Santa Barbara, California, that horses became a consistent part of my life. I had always held a vision of living near the ocean and being surrounded by horses—and that dream, miraculously, came true.
While volunteering at a local Therapeutic Riding Center, I was also running a thriving life coaching practice. It quickly became clear to me: I was meant to blend my two passions—personal transformation and the healing wisdom of horses.
But I knew I wanted to do it in a way that honored the horse's autonomy. I chose to work with them at liberty, allowing them to simply be who they are—free, intuitive, and deeply present.
This commitment led me to become certified in Equine Facilitated Learning through The HERD Institute®. Together with my certification in Spiritual Psychology, I blend a combination of therapeutic modalities to help women have deep, sustainable transformation.
My deepest joy is guiding women back to themselves—helping them release old stories, reclaim their power, and reconnect with their authentic essence, all in partnership with these incredible animals.
Whether you're drawn to private sessions, immersions, a retreat or feel called to join my Sacred Horse Sister Circle, you’ll be met with compassion, presence, and a safe space to heal.
No horse experience is necessary—only a willingness to show up and be open to what unfolds.
I would be honored to walk alongside you and my equine partners as you step into the next, most empowered chapter of your life.
Meet the Healing Herd
Rakel
Scotty
Dillon
Hank
Otis
Chocolate
Vinnie + Pippa
Finley
Our Clients Say...
Jaclyn H., Participant
Thank you for your guidance yesterday at the workshop! Your knowledge, confidence, co-leadership and welcoming was much appreciated. I felt safe and supported when I was alone with the horse and you at the end of the day. I was open and curious about making contact with that beautiful soul and although I felt tentative at first, I appreciated the quality of contact the slowing down of my hand movements you encourage brought forward.