From Clubs to Stables
How Kate Stilman Found Her Calling in Ibiza & Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy
By Sophie Morrow
6/1/25
Former London club promoter Kate Stilman’s journey to equine therapy began with a chance encounter with a horse called BB.
Kates first encounter with Ibiza was far from magical. "Honestly, I didn’t expect much," she admits. "The island’s reputation for tacky bars and English fry-ups wasn’t exactly appealing." Yet, as she ventured further into the island, her perceptions quickly shifted. “I rented a car with a friend, and we explored the quieter side of Ibiza, falling in love with the natural beauty and peaceful vibes. It was like a hidden gem.”
Kate’s Ibiza adventure led to an unexpected twist: a deeper connection with horses. A spontaneous decision to share a horse, BB, with a friend became the spark that set her on a journey into the world of equine therapy. "I had no idea at the time how much horses could impact my life and the lives of others," she reflects with a smile.
Equine therapy—working with horses to heal emotional and psychological wounds—was still relatively unknown back then. But Kate quickly realized how intuitive and responsive horses can be. "They have this incredible ability to tune into our emotions in ways we can’t always grasp. They mirror our feelings without judgment, making them unique therapists," she says.
The science behind this is equally fascinating. Horses have an exceptional ability to sense and mirror human emotions. Their highly developed sense of hearing allows them to detect the subtle changes in our heartbeat, which are often linked to emotions such as stress or anxiety. Horses can hear human heartbeats from as far as four feet away, and studies show that they will synchronize their heartbeats with the humans around them, creating a calm and empathetic environment. This makes them particularly effective at helping people connect with their own emotions and find peace within themselves.
As Kate immersed herself in this practice, she began to notice the extraordinary, almost magical connection horses form with people. "It’s not about riding them or even being physically close to them—it’s about their presence," Kate explains. "Horses teach you to be present, too, without distractions or pretenses."
This concept of presence is key to the therapeutic benefits of equine therapy. The horse’s ability to tune into human emotions and provide a non-judgmental space allows people to experience healing on a deep, subconscious level. Research shows that interacting with horses can reduce stress hormones and increase levels of oxytocin, the hormone associated with bonding and emotional connection.
Now running her own thriving practice in Ibiza, Kate helps people from all walks of life, from those recovering from addiction to couples navigating challenges. "I often get clients who’ve never interacted with horses before, and the bond that develops is incredible," she says. “It’s about trust and authenticity. Horses respond to your energy, and that’s all.”
Kate’s practice has evolved into something truly special, integrating the horses into her therapy sessions with an emphasis on connection, healing, and growth. "The horses provide an environment of calm and clarity," she explains. "People find a space to be real with themselves and work through issues they’ve been holding onto."
How Kate Stilman Found Her Calling in Ibiza & Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy
This concept of presence is key to the therapeutic benefits of equine therapy. The horse’s ability to tune into human emotions and provide a non-judgmental space allows people to experience healing on a deep, subconscious level. Research shows that interacting with horses can reduce stress hormones and increase levels of oxytocin, the hormone associated with bonding and emotional connection.
Now running her own thriving practice in Ibiza, Kate helps people from all walks of life, from those recovering from addiction to couples navigating challenges. "I often get clients who’ve never interacted with horses before, and the bond that develops is incredible," she says. “It’s about trust and authenticity. Horses respond to your energy, and that’s all.”
Kate’s practice has evolved into something truly special, integrating the horses into her therapy sessions with an emphasis on connection, healing, and growth. "The horses provide an environment of calm and clarity," she explains. "People find a space to be real with themselves and work through issues they’ve been holding onto."
Kate’s passion for the work she does is contagious, and her clients often describe their sessions as transformative. “No experience with horses is required—just an openness to the healing they can offer,” Kate assures.
What’s so special about this kind of therapy, according to Kate, is the deep, silent understanding between humans and horses. "We’re all looking for connection, and horses don’t just meet us halfway—they often lead us to where we need to go. It’s a truly unique experience."
So, while Kate Stilman didn’t expect to find her calling on the island of Ibiza, it’s clear that the connection she’s built with horses, and the lives she’s touched through her work, is a story that’s just beginning. "Ibiza has given me a lot. And now, I’m just giving back, one horse therapy session at a time."
To find out more about Kate and Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy go to:
Kate’s passion for the work she does is contagious, and her clients often describe their sessions as transformative. “No experience with horses is required—just an openness to the healing they can offer,” Kate assures.
What’s so special about this kind of therapy, according to Kate, is the deep, silent understanding between humans and horses. "We’re all looking for connection, and horses don’t just meet us halfway—they often lead us to where we need to go. It’s a truly unique experience."
So, while Kate Stilman didn’t expect to find her calling on the island of Ibiza, it’s clear that the connection she’s built with horses, and the lives she’s touched through her work, is a story that’s just beginning. "Ibiza has given me a lot. And now, I’m just giving back, one horse therapy session at a time."
To find out more about Kate and Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy go to: