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Meet Melissa...

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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®, and I’ve been supporting women in their healing journeys ever since.

 

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.

Testimonials...

woman with horse doing equine therapy

First I want to say that you were incredible!!  I have an M.S. in Counseling and have worked for over 40 years in that capacity.

 

I can not imagine anyone I’ve worked with doing as good or a better job than you yesterday—your questions & comments —your verbal and physical responses to all the “horse sisters”!

 

Very grateful to be able to participate with you at the helm and be with all the animals and humans.

— Pam G., MS Clinical Counselor

woman hugging horse equine therapy

It was a glorious day spent with wonderful women and I was so humbled and warmed by the experience.  From the moment I arrived, I felt seen and heard and grateful for the opportunity to ease into the process.

Thank you for this wonderful workshop and for the opportunity to be so empowered!

Tracy, NBC-HWC, MA Clinical Psychology

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We help women experience profound transformation by partnering with horses through workshops, retreats and private or group coaching.

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Copyright 2025 Heal with Horses SB with Melissa Costello

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