Transforming Horse-Rider Connection Through Classical Dressage & Mindful Horsemanship
Dr. Maria Katsamanis is a globally recognized equestrian trainer, clinician, and author specializing in classical dressage and horse-rider connection. With a lifelong dedication to equine partnership, mindful riding practices, and ethical horse training methods, she has developed a unique, science-backed philosophy that helps riders unlock a deeper, more intuitive relationship with their horses.
Her approach blends classical dressage principles, biomechanics, and equine psychology to create a non-forceful, intuitive training method. Through her clinics, private coaching, and mentorship programs, she guides riders toward an effortless equestrian connection, where horse and rider move as one.
“The art of equestrian partnership starts with understanding, not control.” – Dr. Maria Katsamanis
A Life Dedicated to Horsemanship & Classical Riding
Dr. Maria’s journey in horsemanship and classical dressage training began in Greece, where the rich traditions of equestrian mastery deeply influenced her. Growing up immersed in the mythology and art of equine partnership, she dedicated her life to understanding the subtle yet powerful connection between horse and rider.
Her equestrian career took her across Greece, France, and the United States, where she trained with some of the world’s most esteemed classical dressage and biomechanics experts. Her diverse experiences—from working as an exercise rider for elite French racing stables to performing as a display rider in Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee at Windsor Castle—have shaped her revolutionary training philosophy.
By integrating her expertise in equine psychology, biomechanics, and classical riding, Dr. Maria has developed a unique training approach known as "molecular equitation", which examines the energetic and physiological relationship between horse and rider.
“True equestrian mastery is not about mechanics—it’s about harmony.”
The Science & Art of Horse-Rider Connection
Dr. Maria’s training philosophy is a fusion of science and art, balancing equine biomechanics, rider mindset, and classical dressage training to develop trust, confidence, and effortless movement between horse and rider.
Her holistic horse training methods emphasize:
- Developing trust between horse and rider through energy-based horse communication
- Enhancing equine partnership and connection for a more intuitive riding experience
- Classical dressage training for beginners and advanced riders to improve movement and suppleness
- Mindful riding techniques for equestrians to refine aids and enhance responsiveness
- Understanding horse behavior and communication to create a willing, cooperative equine partner
- Gentle, non-forceful horse training that respects the horse’s natural instincts
Dr. Maria’s methods are designed to help riders of all disciplines refine their skills, deepen their equestrian relationship, and experience true riding in dignity.
Education
Dr. Maria Katsamanis has received worldwide recognition as a horse trainer, clinician, exhibition rider, and author. She has transformed the lives of countless horses through her unique approach to training. Utilizing her background in equine and human psychology to examine the fundamental mechanics of the human-equine interaction, Dr. Maria helps riders communicate more effectively with their horses. It sounds simple, but this subtle ‘science’ is a game-changer.
Dr. Maria holds a doctorate in clinical psychology and maintains an appointment as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Rutgers Medical School. Her background in biofeedback and psychophysiology is central to her training approach, dubbed “molecular equitation,” which examines the connection between horse and rider on a molecular level. Full details on Maria’s approach can be found in her book “The Alchemy of Lightness: What Happens Between Horse and Rider on a Molecular Level and How it Helps Achieve the Ultimate Connection.”
Dr. Maria uses her education as a clinical scientist to help demystify and explain the elements of a magical formula that are key in establishing the ultimate connection with our horses. She also holds an International degree in Equine Osteopathy and an advanced certification in Posture therapy, which gives her a “gamechanger” way to approach biomechanics and balance for both horse and rider.
Her explanations of the barriers and myths that block the path between horse and rider results in freeing them both and thus makes the dance accessible to anyone regardless of age or breed. Dr. Maria is honored to be sought out as a clinician both here and abroad.
Equine Background
A native of Greece, the mythology and folklore around the tradition of horsemanship made a significant mark early in her life. Dr. Maria studied in Greece, France, and the United States. Her commitment to the classical tradition is longstanding and she continues to perfect her art.
Dr. Maria’s early equestrian career included working as an exercise rider for a French racing barn and had the privilege of participating as a display rider in Queen Elizabeth’s II Diamond Jubilee at Windsor Castle. She maintains a residence on the island of Crete in the town of Gergeri but resides in the United States where she maintains an active and exclusive student base in New Jersey.
