with Dr. K. Dundas
A Six-Session Equine Experience for Those Navigating Serious Illness, Grief, and Life Transition
Where the spirit connects, the heart softens, and the path becomes lighter.
Created and facilitated by Dr. Kathryn Dundas, MD, CCFP, this compassionate equine-assisted psychotherapy program offers individuals a safe and grounded space to process the emotional, spiritual, and practical aspects of serious illness, caregiving, grief, and end-of-life transition.
Inspired by the pioneering work of Dr. Dundas’s father, Dr. Brock Dundas, a founder of palliative home care and hospice in Calgary, this program honors the healing power of presence, connection, and gentle reflection.
Program Overview
Horses live entirely in the present moment. Their calm, intuitive presence helps us reconnect with ourselves, access emotions we may not have words for, and discover a deeper sense of peace.
Unbridled Grace is offered as a series of six private equine-assisted psychotherapy sessions. Sessions are scheduled according to each participant’s needs, energy level, and pace.
There is no requirement to complete the program on a fixed schedule. Some individuals may choose:
- Two sessions in one week
- One session every few weeks
- Monthly sessions
- A single stand-alone session
Each experience is individualized and tailored to the participant.
Who This Program Is For
This offering may be meaningful for individuals who are:
- Living with serious or life-limiting illness
- Receiving palliative care
- Facing major health decisions
- Processing grief or anticipatory grief
- Supporting a loved one through illness
- Seeking emotional, spiritual, or somatic support during a significant life transition
No prior horse experience is required.
Program Format
- Six private sessions
- 60–90 minutes each
- Conducted outdoors in a peaceful ranch setting
- Includes guided reflection and gentle interaction with horses
- Family members or caregivers are welcome to enjoy the peacefulness of the ranch during the participant’s session
The Six Sessions
Session 1 — Grounded Presence
Reconnecting with Yourself
The journey begins by slowing down and arriving fully in the present moment.
Participants are invited to notice how they are feeling physically, emotionally, and spiritually while experiencing the steady, calming presence of the horse.
Focus:
- Settling the nervous system
- Establishing trust and safety
- Becoming aware of what is present
Session 2 — The Weight We Carry
Acknowledging What Has Been Held
Many people facing illness or caregiving have spent years being strong for others.
This session creates space to recognize the burdens, roles, and emotions that may no longer need to be carried alone.
Focus:
- Recognizing emotional weight
- Naming hidden stressors
- Allowing support
Session 3 — Honoring What Is True
Listening to the Wisdom Within
Horses respond to authenticity.
This session supports participants in identifying what feels most true and meaningful in this season of life.
Focus:
- Clarifying values
- Identifying priorities
- Connecting with inner wisdom
Session 4 — Voicing the Unspoken
Expressing What Matters Most
Participants are invited to explore conversations, wishes, and feelings that may be difficult to share.
This may include legacy reflections, end-of-life wishes, or words that have remained unsaid.
Focus:
- Courageous communication
- Legacy and meaning
- Emotional expression
Session 5 — Releasing and Renewing
Softening What No Longer Serves
Within a safe and supportive setting, participants are gently invited to move through emotions such as grief, fear, sadness, and uncertainty.
The horses often help individuals process these experiences in a way that feels grounded and deeply healing.
Focus:
- Emotional processing
- Somatic release
- Reconnection to resilience and hope
Session 6 — The Gentle Goodbye
Integration, Meaning, and Peace
The final session honors the journey and invites participants to reflect on what they wish to carry forward.
Together, we acknowledge the strength, wisdom, and grace that emerged along the way.
Focus:
- Integration
- Gratitude
- Acceptance and peace
Additional Offerings
Individual Equine Sessions
For those who prefer a single session rather than the full six-session journey.
Ideal for:
- Immediate emotional support
- Caregivers
- Introductory experiences
Half-Day Renewal Experience
A private half-day retreat combining equine experiential work, guided reflection, and restorative time in nature.
Small Group Experiences
Customized programs are available for:
- Families
- Caregiver groups
- Palliative care teams
- Grief support circles
Potential Benefits
Participants may experience:
- Reduced anxiety and emotional overwhelm
- Greater clarity about what matters most
- Improved communication with loved ones
- A sense of being seen and supported
- Renewed connection to self, meaning, and peace
Investment
Unbridled Grace is offered as a six-session private equine-assisted psychotherapy journey.
Six-Session Journey
$2,400 CAD
Sessions are booked at your own pace and tailored to your individual needs.
Receipts are issued by Dr. Kathryn Dundas, MD, CCFP. Reimbursement may be available through extended health benefits under psychotherapy services, depending on your plan.
A limited number of reduced-fee spaces may be available.
Closing Reflection
In the presence of horses, many people discover that healing is not about fixing what is broken.
It is about feeling supported enough to soften, reconnect with what matters most, and move forward with greater peace, strength, and grace.
