As experts in the art of mentoring, we’re all about supporting you
Our hoofbeats supporting your heartbeat.
The People
Kathy
Kathy is an Advanced Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) facilitator and the founder for Symatree Farm. A lifelong love of horses, combined with a strong belief in the value of experiential learning and an intense desire to help others, naturally led her to EAL.
From operating heavy equipment, to earning a couple of university degrees, partnering in a three-generation family business, and achieving certification as an elementary Montessori teacher and Homeopath, and training in transformational coaching, facilitation and leadership, she now draws upon her training, skills and experiences to head up our adult programs and facility development.
As the youth and teen facilitation have transferred to the oh-so-capable hands of Betty and Connor, Kathy set her sites on bringing fun back into the lives of grownups through programming that explores possibility, inspires action and awakens passion.
Whether she's facilitating a session, tending the herd, working on curriculum design, greasing farm machinery, or swinging a hammer, it all comes together in fulfilling her dream... bringing horses and people together for the joy and betterment of all.
Barb
Team Member at Large
Barb is EAGALA certified, endlessly motivated and always cheerful! Her energy, enthusiasm and heart are unparalleled... she's famous for talking about "long term plans", and then making those "long term plans" come together within weeks! As an equine expert in Symatree's EAP program, Barb's patience and gentle observations are key in helping design exercises specific to the needs of our clients. Outside of the arena, she works closely with Kathy in identifying new directions and designing creative programs. Barb is all about fun and helping others through the healing power of horses and that forms the basis of the lifelong friendship that has been forged between her and Kathy.
Betty
Betty is our lead youth facilitator.
A part of Symatree from the start, her creativity has inspired the images we use on the website, in social media and in our materials. That same creativity has also inspired programming and facility development and her horse skills make her a key player in their day-to-day care.
As powerful as she is in all of these areas, her true gift lies in working with struggling kids. Regardless of their challenge, Betty sees the brilliant and loveable child behind the anger, sadness and silence, encouraging them to step forward into their gifts. Having studied addictions and youth correctional counselling, Betty skillfully applies her combination of experience and education to plan and facilitate extra special youth programs and camps!
Want your child to learn the skills for being a good friend or have an extraordinary camp experience? Look no further than our creative, artistic, powerful and kind-hearted Betty!
Connor
Connor has been on our team since 2020. With a Bachelors of Kinesiology and years of experience in recreation planning and programming, he began by enriching our programming… adding his love for and knowledge of movement. He loves getting out and about, jumping, vaulting and climbing his way through each day! Pulling philosophies from the practice of Parkour, he inspires people to find ways to overcome all kinds of obstacles!
More recently, Connor has completed the coursework for his Masters in Counseling Psychology, and is just one practicum away from it being an official title!
With his experience, education, interests and “cool factor”, Connor is stepping into the role of Lead Teen Facilitator, working with both individuals and groups, facilitating 1-hour, full-day and overnight weekend programs where fun is had and connections are made.
Want your teen to find the courage to be themselves?
Their engagement plus Connor’s balance of kind listening, good humor and insightful questioning will get them there!
The Critter Crew
Emmie
the Matriarch
Emmie has been a part of Symatree from the very first day! She knew all the nooks and crannies of the farm already and was happy to show us the best sunning spots and the coziest hiding spots. As our feline matriarch, Emmie now spends her days in the garage, watching all the goings ons at the farm, meowing loudly to announce her place in the world, and sleeping gently under her heat lamp.
Wesley
the Dread Pirate Roberts
This little rascal will greet you with a meow and a lick. Bend down, and give him a pat, or pick him up and let him wiggle his way into your heart and onto the top of your head.
Chester
the Dedicated Single Dad
Chesterfield made his way to the farm on a cold winter day, and the next spring he decided he would be part of the family! We’re so happy he chose us, and every day he gets more and more curious and friendly. Say hello to Chester next time you visit, he’s always up for a chat!
Fidget
the Vet Biter
Fidget is a huntress and pouncer! She is a brave, talkative little cat, always chatting back and forth with us. She is the most fierce in the cat pack , chasing toys and keeping her boys in check! Fidget’s favourite pass-times are exploring people’s sleeves, sharpening her hunting skills and feigning disinterest in attention, only to demand it moments later… on her terms!
Reese
the Irrepressible
Reese is our resident pup and explorer. She is a lively, bouncy and willing dog. She kayaks, hikes, bikes, explores, and climbs with her peeps… she’s even been on a float plane and in a skidsteer. When it’s time for work, Reese is eager and ready to welcome Symatree visitors with enthusiasm! Her favourite pass times are showing people her toys, barking at cats, going on hikes, dancing in the kitchen and making new friends! She can’t wait to show you her rope-duck!
Herbert
the Flying Pig
Forged in Saskatchewan, Herbert joined our Symatree family to remind us daily that all things are possible… even flying pigs!
Engage with the Herd
Schedule your visit to Symatree Farm and enjoy your own equine experience…