About Us

I’m Danny Gibbins, founder of Heart Held Journey.

‍ ‍I’ve found the perfect combination to assist

Neuro Diverse children, teens, and adults to heal, learn, grow and thrive

in a way that suits them best.

It all began 28 years ago with a young woman studying Psychology at university, who pivoted near the end of the degree into teaching after discovering a deep passion for working with children. During my almost 20 years of teaching in primary schools, watching children, especially those with neurodiveristies, struggle with social, and self-awareness, I realised that there had to be a better way to support them. I created highly successful Social Skill Drama Programs to engage and assist with navigating tricky social situations, but something was still missing. As the curriuculm tightened further I noticed child after child who didn’t fit the mold slipping through the cracks and losing more and more confidence. I couldn’t do enough within the restrictions of the job, so I had to step away.

Leaving the classroom I began my own healing journey, first getting back to nature and horses. Seeing the impact of horse exposure on the mental health, confidence and skill development of myself and my own neurodiverse child, I bought and began to raise and train the two beautful foals you will soon fall in love with, Dream and Koby.

I have also studied Reiki 1,2 and Masters, run inclusive Art Therapy sessions in aged care, and returned to my psychology roots; completing a Diploma in Counselling.

Finally connecting all the puzzle pieces by studying Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.

This final piece combined what I knew from my experience:

- within the classroom,

-with my own horses,

-applying healing and learning power of art and play

-working with energy healing

-using theories and practices of mental health talk therapy .

‍ ‍

‍ ‍‍ ‍ I’ve found the perfect combination to assist

children, teens and adults to heal, learn, grow and thrive

in a way that suits them best.

Now, with the support of my small team, I am so honoured

to be able to share this with you.

At Heart Held Journey, we believe that like our horses, every client is a beautiful and unique soul who deserves the best in life. We aim to assist each individual to achieve their personal goals and/or understandings which allow them to navigate the complexities of life with greater confidence, joy and self-awarenss.
Empathy, respect, connection and personal growth are what we both model and work with others to bring into the world.
To show, model and share respect for individuality, empathy and to help others to feel seen, held and supported.