With a philosophy based on the L.I.M.A. Principle (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive), Nicole believes that horses are our best teachers. It is our ethical duty to listen to what they are sharing with us via the only way they know how and shape behaviours accordingly. While there are many sound principles of classical and "natural" horsemanship, there are often profound inconsistencies in how we deliver our requests. Anthropomorphism often clouds what we ask and expect of horses and consequently, the horse can suffer mentally and/or physically. While negative reinforcement (pressure/release) is the predominant method of training horses, Nicole also incorporates positive reinforcement (Clicker Training). Positive reinforcement is extra invaluable in remedial behaviour cases, especially fear based. Part of Nicole's coaching and riding journey has led her to Equitation Science which opened her eyes even more to the science of horse behaviour and learning theory. Always keen to further her education, she is embarking upon the extensive path towards a Diploma in Equine Studies with a focus on Equine Behaviour and Welfare through the University of Guelph. While Nicole finds coaching riders to become the best versions of themselves to be very fulfilling on its own, she feels that improving the welfare of horses through that education makes coaching all the more rewarding.