We had the good fortune of connecting with Kimberlee Countryman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kimberlee, what’s the most difficult decision you’ve ever had to make?
The most difficult decision I’ve ever made was choosing to leave the career I had built over 19 years in international cargo claims to go back to school. I decided to pursue my certification in Equine Gestalt Coaching and an additional certification in Equine Facilitation. It was a leap into a completely different field—one that aligned more closely with my values and passions—but it meant stepping away from a secure, established career. I knew it would require significant time, financial commitment, and starting over professionally, but I believed in the transformative potential of the work. Looking back, it was challenging, but it has been one of the most rewarding decisions of my life.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Equine Gestalt Coaching is a unique, experiential approach to personal growth and healing that partners with horses as active participants in the process. Unlike traditional coaching, it’s not just about talking—it’s about being fully present, in mind and body, in the moment. Horses have an incredible ability to sense human emotions and reflect them back without judgment. This creates a powerful space for self-discovery, release, and transformation.

Facilitating group workshops with horses takes this to an even deeper level. Participants not only connect with the horses, but also learn from each other’s experiences in a safe, supportive environment. The horses’ presence grounds the group, fostering authenticity, empathy, and courage in ways that can’t be replicated in a traditional setting.

For me, stepping into this work was the most courageous decision of my life. After 19 years in a career I never planned on—handling international cargo claims—I chose to start over in my 40’s and follow my passion. That career was born out of necessity after I beat cancer and needed costly specialty insurance. My hardworking dad gave me a soft place to land, offering coverage through his law firm’s group policy, and I stayed for the stability. Over time, I found my niche in cargo claims and even enjoyed it, but my heart was always with horses and helping people.

Equine Gestalt Coaching allows both to be true at the same time—it’s where my passion for horses and my calling to support others meet. The healing energy horses bring into these sessions makes the human healing experience not only possible, but profoundly life-changing. Starting over wasn’t easy, but every day, getting to do what I love, reminds me that it was absolutely worth it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I prefer to stay off the beaten track, so my favorite spots are usually up in the mountains, in the canyons, or along the beach. I ride a 2021 Harley Davidson Fatboy, so on weekends you’ll often find me with friends at The Old Place, tucked away in the canyon on Mulholland. I also love Cafe Habana on PCH and the old cafe on the hill in Summerland up the coast. Give me a good glass of wine and a cozy café off the beaten path, and I’m happy.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
A huge shoutout to my dad for always believing in me and supporting me every step of the way. To my best friend, Dr. Catherine Barrett, thank you for always having my back and reminding me to never give up, even when things get scary. And to my good friend and talented chef, Connor Bruno, who jumped right alongside me on this journey—you’ve become such a beautiful addition to our horse family. I’m so grateful for all of you.

Website: https://www.stablesoulretreats.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stablesoulretreats

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stablesoulretreats

Image Credits
Photography by: Ben Shani Creative
Horse Handler: Connor Bruno

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