Testimonials
After two decades of teaching, Heather Johnson has built an impressive following of students and alumni that are excited to share with you their experiences when working with her.
“Heather is more than a horse trainer and riding instructor. With a BS in psychology, a background in classical dressage, and a USDF Silver medal, she has the experience and empathy to solve complex horse and rider re-training issues as well as bring a young horse up through the levels.
She continues to strive for more knowledge to be the best trainer and instructor, not just for herself but, more importantly, for her clients.
Recently she completed Andy Thomas' Testt (c) program course, "Testt: Understanding rider symmetry for performance - the coaches role". Information she gained from this course helped me solve a position problem that has been impeding my riding for the last 30 years. I am so thankful for her presence in my life. ”
— Tammy M.
“Heather half-leased my PSG horse for over a year and competed him successfully at that level. Never did her ambitions or goals get in the way of doing what was right for him. The horse’s needs ALWAYS came first and her kindness to him was remarkable. My horse became sick while I was on a trip and Heather (who has three children and many students and horses in training) dropped everything and took the time to hand-walk, hose, medicate, and be there for him. This is when you know you have a true horse lover and a kind friend.”
— Jaana S.
Photo by Carole MacDonald
“Heather emphasizes correctness in her teaching, which has been pivotal in improving the connection between my horse and I. She also gives us exercises that promote forwardness and relaxation, even during collected work. A rider of any level would benefit from her guidance!”
— Emily W.
“Heather teaches with patience and kindness. Her approach combines support and guidance with the goal of harmony between horse and rider. I have gained so much confidence since working with her and I always leave our lessons feeling a sense of accomplishment.”
— Sarah S., DVM
“I am incredibly fortunate to be the owner of a 16 year old thoroughbred “warhorse” – a handsome, big gelding who came to me off the track at 10 and with all of the physical and mental challenges that come along with a long racing career. My goal with him is to use correct dressage fundamentals to improve his strength and fitness with every ride, and to help him find relaxation and suppleness in the work to keep him balanced, strong and happy with his job. Heather uses creative strategies to release the tension he carries in his back and neck and breaks things down into a step by step process for me to follow to prevent the tension from creeping back in. Once we have him relaxed and allowing me “in”, we work on learning new concepts and improving our connection. My horse and I both come away from our lessons feeling more relaxed, more connected and most importantly, respected for our somewhat unglamourous goals of simply riding the basics correctly and in a way that will keep him sound of mind and body for as long as possible.“
— Alicia P. T.
“I have known Heather for over 10 years and she has helped me train two very moody mares. Her approach is always straightforward and friendly. She gave me the tools to make my horses want to work (and be supple) while helping me to not become frustrated. I highly recommend working with Heather, she is a great trainer. ”
— Nina R. W.
“Heather provides a rare balance of calm and correct training. As an eventer who owns a sensitive, redheaded Thoroughbred, I often struggle to find dressage coaching that doesn't stress him (or me!) out. Since training with Heather, my horse's demeanor has changed dramatically for the better. He is far more relaxed and willing, and it's showing in our test scores! Heather's methodical approach allows horses to perform their best without becoming overwhelmed. Her style of instruction is also easy to understand, which means I feel enabled to be productive on my own between lessons. I highly recommend Heather to anyone, and especially people with quirky or "difficult" horses. This event rider is actually enjoying dressage now!”
— Maura G.
Photo by Joan Davis of Flatlandsfoto
“I have been working with Heather for over 7 years. She helped me carefully bring my mare back from "career ending" injuries and we are now able to school high level dressage movements again. Heather's approach to training is to prioritize the well-being of the horse. She tailors her teaching and training style to each individual horse and rider's needs. Heather is kind, patient and clear. She will help you reach your goals and she will treat your horse as she would her own.”
Katya P.
“When we moved to Maine nine years ago, Heather was recommended to us as a trainer who could work with our less than mannerly OTTB. Not only could she manage him, but she took the time to get to know him and helped us counter his often erratic behaviors with understanding, patience and consistent handling. Through the years, she helped us understand how to manage not only his behavior but also his soundness. And finally, she was able to help us understand when retirement was in his best interest.
When we decided to find another horse, Heather was there every step of the way. From identifying potential candidates for a 65-year-old, casual, out of shape rider, through the entire purchase process, Heather supported us with her calm, professional approach. She found a vet for a pre-purchase exam and asked all the questions a novice would never think to ask. After reviewing initial lab reports she suggested some further work to give us a better picture of longer-term health prospects. She traveled to make an in-person assessment and then worked with the broker to arrange transport. Finally, she was right there to support us the moment our new boy came off the trailer.
Heather’s innate empathy really helped him through a big transition from outdoor, Florida horse to Maine horse, in winter, in an indoor arena. Whew! It was so rewarding to see him look to Heather for security. His progress under her direction has been impressive. Especially important for us is that even though Heather specializes in advanced Dressage coaching, she treats everyone as her most important client. Our big draft cross is treated as well as her most advanced horses and riders and she is skilled enough to quickly assess where you are and what needs to be done. Her relationship with clients is about their relationship with their horse and not about her ego as an instructor. Through the course of our nine year relationship I have seen Heather refer clients to specific farriers, body work professionals, diagnostic professionals and other trainers with different training methods all in support of each horse. We feel very privileged to have Heather’s guidance as well as her instruction.
— Jennifer E.