Introducing Ellen O’Rourke: From Tech to Transformation through Equine Facilitated Learning
We’re excited to introduce one of our recent L5 EFHD graduates, Ellen O’Rourke, whose inspiring journey into the world of Equine Facilitated Human Development is as thoughtful as it is powerful.
I’m Ellen O’Rourke, a marketing lead, storyteller, and lifelong horse lover based in Cornwall. My background is in journalism and entrepreneurship, and I’ve spent the last decade working in creative and tech spaces – most recently leading marketing at a global people-centred technology company. Outside of work, I’ve always found my grounding in nature, animals, and the wisdom of horses. While I’ve worn many hats throughout my career, one thread has remained constant: a drive to support people in finding clarity, confidence, and connection – whether through brand messaging, peer support, or time shared with the herd. Over time, that thread has drawn me closer to the idea that the most profound transformations are often the most quietly held.
Why did you want to train in EFHD?
I came to EFHD at a point where I was feeling a tug to work in a more embodied, spacious way – where intuition and presence could take the lead, and let my logical brain take a well-earned break. I wasn’t seeking another qualification just for the sake of it; I wanted to deepen the work I was already doing within myself and build something more meaningful alongside my horses.
The IFEEL Method offered something I hadn’t quite encountered before: a trauma-informed, ethically grounded, and deeply nuanced approach to human development – with horses as active participants, not tools. That approach felt not only respectful to the herd I’ve built, but also truly aligned with how I want to show up in the world.
What did the course offer you?
The L5 EFHD course with IFEEL Method provided me with a strong foundation in equine behaviour and psychology, emphasising ethological, welfare-focused facilitation. The combination of theory, such as adult development and trauma-informed frameworks, alongside practical observation skills, helped me become a more attentive and responsive facilitator.
Learning to hold space for clients, without rushing to fix or control, was a vital lesson. The on-site practical sessions, including work in the round pen, gave me confidence in trusting the horses and the process – highlighting the importance of presence and authenticity.
The course also created a supportive environment where diverse perspectives and non-judgemental dialogue were encouraged, fostering personal and professional growth.
What are you doing with your EFHD qualification now?
Since completing the L5 EFHD Diploma, I’ve been slowly beginning to build a small equine-assisted personal development practice here in Cornwall. My approach is grounded in emotional wellbeing, consent-led practice, and co-regulation, with a focus on creating space in life to notice rather than ‘fix.’
Alongside this, I’m co-launching a community interest company alongside my partner, offering peer-led wellbeing support and resilience-building workshops for those who have experience within the criminal justice system, where I hope to integrate elements of equine facilitation in time.
For now, I’m focused on showing up with integrity, letting the work unfold naturally, and allowing the horses to guide the shape of what’s next.
Connect with Ellen
You can follow the quiet unfolding of this work on Instagram – @gwellequine – where I share reflections, herd dynamics, and the powerful wisdom of the horse.
