Presenter
Dr. Barbara Parks
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
2026 Presentations
Dr. Barbara Parks
DAY 1
★ Clicker Training Foundations: Building Better Rehabilitation Outcomes Through Positive Reinforcement (Part 1)
This introductory presentation lays the groundwork for using clicker training as a powerful tool in equine training, and especially for physical and emotional rehabilitation. We’ll explore the science of learning theory, the LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) framework for ethical training choices, and how to safely incorporate food rewards into your sessions. By understanding the "why" behind behavior and motivation, you'll be better equipped to support your horse’s recovery with confidence and compassion. This session sets the stage for Part 2, where you’ll learn practical skills to apply clicker training effectively in real-life scenarios. Ideal for professionals and horse owners looking to improve the lives of horses in their care.
DAY 2
★ Clicker Training Foundations Building Better Rehabilitation Outcomes Through Positive Reinforcement (Part 2)
Building on the science and ethical foundations introduced in Part 1—including learning theory, the LIMA framework, and how to safely use food rewards—Part 2 dives into the practical application of clicker training. You'll learn how to teach essential foundation behaviors such as targeting, leading at liberty, and a calm default behavior, all of which support rehabilitation and daily handling. We’ll also cover more advanced techniques like building duration, generalizing, and chaining behaviors to support both your horsemanship and under-saddle goals. Whether you're a professional or horse owner, this session gives you the tools to confidently begin applying positive reinforcement in real-world scenarios.
★ What Your Horse’s Body is Telling You: Posture, Gait & Lameness Demystified
Every step your horse takes tells a story—if you know how to listen. This presentation breaks down the essentials of assessing standing posture and gait to help identify early signs of discomfort, compensation, and potential lameness. You'll learn how to spot subtle shifts in posture, recognize abnormal movement patterns, and understand what they may indicate about your horse’s musculoskeletal health. Designed for horse owners, bodyworkers, and equine caregivers, this session offers practical tools and real-life examples to build your confidence in recognizing when something’s not quite right. By tuning into your horse’s body language and movement, you’ll be better equipped to support their comfort, performance, and long-term soundness—before problems become injuries.
Get to know
Dr. Barbara Parks
