Dr. Barbara Parks, PT, DPT, CERP, CTRI, CEMT, is a licensed physical therapist and certified equine rehabilitation practitioner with a multi-disciplinary background including equine massage therapy, adaptive and therapeutic riding, and positive reinforcement training. Her practice centers on a whole-horse, consent-based approach to rehabilitation, blending science with deep respect for the horse’s agency and emotional well-being.

Dr. Parks specializes in restoring functional movement and comfort in horses recovering from injury, managing chronic pain, or seeking to optimize performance. Her work emphasizes collaborative care -- partnering with veterinarians, farriers, equine dentists, and hoof care professionals to develop individualized, integrative treatment plans.

In both clinical and educational settings, Dr. Parks champions consent-driven handling and training methods. Her approach integrates therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular re-education, manual therapies, and trauma-informed strategies to support lasting outcomes achieved through ethical means.

As an educator, she teaches a range of online courses for equine professionals and dedicated horse owners. Her signature program, Sound Horse Academy, is a 16-week intensive that explores equine biomechanics, pain science, functional assessment, and therapeutic interventions—bridging the gap between traditional rehab and compassionate, relationship-based care.

Through hands-on therapy, teaching, and collaborative partnerships, Dr. Parks is committed to supporting soundness, resilience, and agency in every horse she works with—bringing together evidence-based practice with heart-led, horse-centered care.

Because of the Horse...

I found the courage to walk my own path in this world