Who we are
At Stable Soul Retreats, we believe in the profound healing power of the human–horse connection. Our equine-assisted workshops create a safe, supportive space for individuals, couples, families, and groups to explore growth, healing, and connection in ways that traditional settings often cannot.
We specialize in guiding people through trauma recovery, PTSD healing, personal growth, relationship building, and everything in between. Horses, with their unique ability to sense and mirror human emotions, help participants discover deeper self-awareness, release old patterns, and step into wholeness.
Whether you are seeking to heal from past wounds, strengthen your bond with a partner, reconnect as a family, or simply rediscover yourself, our workshops offer experiences that nourish the mind, body, and soul.
At Stable Soul Retreats, we hold true to one simple belief: the connection between humans and horses has the power to heal everything.
Meet The Team
Kimberlee Countryman – Founder, Equine Facilitator
Certified Equine Gestaltist (in training) | Founder of Stable Soul Retreats
Kimberlee Countryman is the heart and vision behind Stable Soul Retreats. An Equine Gestaltist, in training, and experienced equine facilitator, Kimberlee brings deep empathy, life experience, and a lifelong love for horses into every workshop she leads. Her journey into equine-assisted coaching began not in a barn, but in a boardroom.
After graduating high school, Kimberlee entered the world of corporate America, where she spent years building a successful career. Yet, something was always missing. Her natural pull toward helping others—and her deep connection with horses—remained constant undercurrents in her life. It wasn’t until later, during a time of personal reflection, that she decided to follow her intuition and go back to school to become a certified Equine Gestaltist.
That decision changed everything.
Today, Kimberlee combines her professional experience, intuitive insight, and equine facilitation training to guide others through transformational experiences. At Stable Soul Retreats, she creates safe, supportive spaces where healing happens through authentic connection—with self, others, and the wisdom of horses.
Whether supporting trauma recovery, fostering family connection, or helping teams build trust, Kimberlee’s approach is grounded, compassionate, and deeply aligned with her purpose: to help others come home to themselves, one horse-guided moment at a time.
Read all about our very own Kimberlee in ShoutOut LA Magazine as they celebrate and honor her inspiring journey. We’re so proud to see her story shine!
Dr. Catherine Barrett
Licensed Clinical Forensic Psychologist
Dr. Barrett is a Licensed Clinical Forensic Psychologist with a deep commitment to trauma-informed care and social justice. She began her clinical journey after earning a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern California in 2009. Over the years, she has developed specialized expertise in treating individuals affected by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex trauma. Her clinical work has included supporting individuals, couples, and families navigating challenges such as grief, addiction, emotional abuse, and interpersonal conflict.
Driven by a passion for the intersection of psychology and the legal system, Dr. Barrett pursued a Doctorate in Clinical Forensic Psychology from Alliant International University’s California School of Forensic Studies, graduating in 2014. Her doctoral training emphasized risk assessment, psychological evaluation, and the treatment of individuals incarcerated for mental health-related offenses.
Today, Dr. Barrett works as a consultant, expert witness, and therapist, primarily supporting clients entangled in the family court system—particularly those facing divorce and custody battles involving abusive dynamics. Her work is rooted in a mission to advocate for underserved populations and help them heal from systemic and interpersonal trauma.
In addition to her clinical and forensic work, Dr. Barrett is a full-time faculty member in the Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy program at the University of Southern California, where she mentors the next generation of therapists.
Outside of her professional life, Dr. Barrett is a passionate animal rescuer and proud caretaker of four rescue animals. During the pandemic, she rescued a mustang named Lennon, forming a profound bond that deepened her appreciation for equine-assisted therapy. She believes in the transformative power of the human-horse connection and is dedicated to helping others experience the healing and self-discovery that can emerge through this unique therapeutic relationship.
Connor Bruno
Private Chef and Horse Handler
Chef Connor Bruno is a world trained chef with a modern, grounded approach to food. Connor has spent over a decade cooking for high-profile clients, celebrities, and discerning food lovers across the globe.
From the most refined kitchens to open flames under the stars, Connor brings the same level of intention, creativity, and precision to every plate. Whether he's crafting a five-course dinner in a luxury villa, grilling by the beach, or preparing a meal 30,000 feet in the air, his focus remains the same: bold flavors, seasonal ingredients, and food that tells a story.
Rooted in a deep respect for the land, Chef Connor believes in sourcing locally and cooking from the earth. His approach is clean, rustic, and elevated—always fresh, never overworked. Known for his unforgettable sauces and dynamic flavor profiles, his dishes leave you curious, satisfied, and craving just one more bite.
Available for private events, travel, or intimate at-home experiences, Chef Connor brings the farm to your table—wherever that table may be.