Better Mind,
Better Ride.
TM
Align your mind with your horse’s potential and build the partnership you need to succeed.
Learn evidenced-based psychological tools from an experienced Performance & Clinical Psychologist.
"As a registered Performance Psychologist and active competitor in horse events, I understand firsthand the unique pressures riders face—because I live them!"
Deena Cooper
Clinical & Performance Psychologist
Start rewiring your mindset today.
Download my free tip sheet:
What to do if you are scared to ride
I support riders across the entire range of the sport:
-
Elite Competitors: Sharpening focus, managing performance pressure, and unlocking that critical 1% performance edge.
-
Rebuilding Riders: Overcoming fear, quieting doubt, and reclaiming confidence after a fall, injury, or setback.
-
Everyday Equestrians: Providing grounded clinical support for anxiety, burnout, and mental health in the saddle and in life.
You don't have to navigate fear, pressure, or burnout alone. Together, we’ll build the focus, resilience, and calm you need to be the partner your horse deserves and the rider you've always wanted to be.
Trusted by the Equestrian Community
As a registered Psychologist in Australia, regulations prevent me from publishing individual rider testimonials, however, industry leaders, clubs, and equestrian organisations across Australia have relied on my Better Mind Better Ride Masterclasses, presentations, workshops, and advice to give their riders a competitive edge.
Click below for details of some of my recent Better Mind Better Ride Masterclass collaborations and partnerships.
ABOUT DEENA
The Rider Behind the Psychologist
Long before I qualified as a registered psychologist, I was a rider standing in the dirt, dealing with bad falls, hard horses, and deep self-doubt. I had to rebuild my own mindset from scratch before I could help anyone else with theirs.
When I looked for help, psychologists didn't understand what it was like to partner with a 500-kilogram prey animal, or that you have to regulate two nervous systems at once to succeed. My riding coaches were incredible, but they weren't trained to handle deep psychological distress.
So I built what was missing.
Today, I combine clinical performance tools with real competitive experience to help equestrians manage pressure, rebuild trust after injury, and ride with calm focus. I work with riders at every level through 1:1 Telehealth coaching and targeted masterclasses.
Services
Find out more about what to expect in a 1:1 Session, fees, frequently asked questions, and other details.
Personalised workshops and group sessions for pony clubs, riding clubs, and competative teams.
Designed to give you elite level tools and professional guidance at an affordable price.
Add a custom Masterclass to your clinic or event. Create interest and help riders get the most our of your training.
Why Sport Psychology for Equestrians?
For all riders, mastering the art of horsemanship is about more than just physical skill, it's a profound mental and emotional partnership with your horse. No matter the level you are at, the discipline you do, or the age you are, performance psychology can offer benefits that extend beyond the arena. Click on the images below to find out more.
