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About Maria

Get to Know Dr. Maria Katsamanis

Her Biography

Education

Dr. Maria Katsamanis has received worldwide recognition as a horse trainer, clinician, exhibition rider, and author.

With a doctoral degree in clinical psychology, 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. 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 while continuing to maintain an appointment as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Rutgers Medical School.

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. 

Sharing Her Passion

Click or touch on the items below to learn more

Author

Dr. Maria is co-author of The Alchemy of Lightness along with Dominique Barbier. The book introduces the concept of molecular equitation showing what happens to horse and human on a molecular level creating the ultimate connection.
(Trafalgar Square Publishing, 2013)

Educator

Horses with Dr. Maria an Online Course Center provides you with special access to this master horseman. Join us in this online educational venue with hours of hands on videos that provide insights that you will be able to apply to the partnership with your horse.
education.mariakatsamanis.com

Advocate

Founded by Dr. Maria, Friends for Pegasus promotes better understanding of equine wellness through the rehabilitation and transformation of horses who need a second chance. Help be a part of the transformation, “one hoof at a time.”
friendsforpegasus.org

“Decide today not to push and pull and watch everything change” – Dr. Maria Katsamanis

Keys to Her Training Philosophy

"When art and science meet to harness the ultimate connection." - Dr. Maria Katsamanis

The training foundation is based on classical French and Greek principles. These training methods have proven successful to numerous horses and riders across various riding disciplines. These techniques can be beneficial whether your pursuit is dressage, western riding, improved jumping, driving, endurance or experiencing a safer more fulfilling trail ride.

The 3 S's

Specializing in classical French, Dr. Maria’s methods include in-hand work, advanced lunge-work, and long-reining. The sequence always includes work-in hand lunging followed by riding to promote SUPPLENESS, STRENGTH and SELF-CARRIAGE
(the 3 S’s).

Physiology

Committed to studying human and equine physiology, her training focuses on the self-carriage of the horse and rider. Only in balance and relaxation can the correct muscle formation occur, physical blocks be dissipated, and mental communication be facilitated.

Individuality

It is always very important to remember that each horse is an individual and with Dr. Maria they are treated as such and their education is tailored to their personality and physical profile—all with a solid foundation in a classical French recipe.

Reciprocal

Horsemanship is more than the horse. Horses are brought to us and challenge us to reconnect with ourselves. This reciprocal “helping” —helping of the horse, helping of the human often challenges people to find training methods that will help them grow with their equine mate.

Blueprint

Upon meeting, Dr. Maria sees a blueprint of what the horse will look like when the muscling, balance and comfort are established. The challenge of working with different breeds has allowed her to consider the physical and mental aspects of training in a completely novel way.

Breathing

It is also important to realize that breathing behavior is a cornerstone feature for both the horse and the human. As a clinician,  Dr. Maria finds it beneficial to utilize her background in biofeedback and psychophysiology to help “connect” humans with their own body signals.

Dr. Maria at Work

Instructor Dr Maria Katsamanis

Dr. Maria's Homebase

Amwell Ridge Farm in Ringoes, New Jersey

The farm sits on 131 preserved acres with spectacular views and miles of trails. Year round boarding, lessons and training is offered. Located within 1/2 hr from Princeton. The farm is also within commuting distance to NYC and Philadelphia.

Amwell Ridge Farm

Amwell Ridge Farm in Ringoes, New Jersey serves as Maria’s homebase where she offers training, boarding, sales and clinic services.

Maria works with riders in every discipline and with different breeds, all with identical objectives in mind- the physical and mental wellness of the horse. Dr. Maria is commitment to the welfare of the horse and she is open to working within different budgets to meet your goals.

More Details About Amwell Farm

Horses deemed as “difficult” are welcomed. Our staff is experienced with stallion handling.

Amwell Ridge Farm is the ideal setting for horse and human alike. European equestrian tradition in a pictureque country setting.

Stall Board  &  Field Board Available

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Dr. Maria is currently accepting horses in training!

Visit Us
Amwell Ridge Farm
(732) 921-0565
mskatsamani@aol.com
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