See The Difference

Through my combination of Nerve Release Technique and BTMM, I’m not just releasing nerves but also helping the horse retrain its body to move in a way that prevents the issue from coming back. I focus on their biomechanics and nervous system health. As a Balanced Through Movement Method (BTMM) apprentice trainer, I guide horses toward postural soundness, ensuring they move in a way that supports their long-term well-being rather than causing breakdown or discomfort.

BTMM Pillars:

  • Pillar 1 – Relationship to Connection 

  • Pillar 2 – Center of Balance 

  • Pillar – 3 Spinal Integrity 

READ MORE BELOW

Nerve release technique is a hands-on method that helps horses restore healthy movement and function by addressing nerve tension and restrictions in their bodies. Instead of forcing muscles or joints into place, this approach works with the nervous system to create lasting change and relief.

How

The nervous system controls everything—movement, muscle activation, and pain perception.

IT

When nerves become compressed, restricted, or irritated, it can lead to compensation patterns, tension, and dysfunction in the horse’s movement..

Works

By using gentle, targeted techniques, nerve release helps the body unlock restrictions, allowing the horse to move freely and reset compensatory patterns.

WHAT IT HELPS WITH

  • Restoring mobility in tight, restricted areas

  • Relieving discomfort from nerve compression

  • Improving posture and functional movement

  • Reducing compensation patterns caused by past injuries or poor biomechanics

Why is it so Effective?

  • Unlike deep tissue work, nerve release doesn’t force the horse’s body into change—it invites the nervous system to release and restore function naturally.

  • Many horses show immediate changes in posture, movement, and relaxation after even a single session.

  • When combined with BTMM training, it helps retrain the horse’s body so they don’t fall back into old compensations.

My goal is to develop sustainable movement so your horse can feel good, stay sound, and perform their best—whether they’re athletes, companions, or somewhere in between.

My Work Involves:

  • Assessing movement and posture to identify imbalances or compensations.

  • Guiding horses through exercises done through the 3 Pillars that encourage correct movement patterns and muscular engagement.

  • Supporting nervous system regulation through nerve release techniques, helping horses find relaxation, mobility, and functional strength.

  • Educating owners and riders on how to support their horses’ movement and training for soundness.

  • Teaching riders to find their own 3 Pillars within their body 

Sessions available in person & via zoom

FEEDBACK FROM HAPPY CLIENTS

  • I’d been learning from BTMM for a few years in a casual manner, so I knew the benefit it offered. But there wasn’t anyone in my area who did formal nerve release work. I was so thrilled last winter to see that Cassandra had been certified and was available! From the first moment meeting her I’ve appreciated her calm, compassionate manner. She worked on my two horses and was so thorough, so kind, so horse-centric in her handling of them that that alone made me love her. But then the patterns she noticed, the way she met both horses exactly where they were and adapted her approach to their different personalities, and was also able to support both of them releasing so much tension during their initial sessions frankly feels like nothing short of a miracle!! Even months after her visit the changes have remained. She also took the time to explain to me all she was finding and develop a sustainable plan of exercises I could continue to do with both of them after she left. She’s also continued to be responsive and involved as I’ve had questions and thoughts as time has gone on. I am so deeply grateful to have someone of her character and caliber in the region, and she is now a permanent part of my babies care team! Thank you, Cassandra ❤️

    - Dr. Emily Knitter

  • Cassandra provided a wonderful experience for my sensitive mare. My mare often struggles to relax with bodyworkers but immediately settled in with Cassandra. The session provided immediate relaxation and improved posture for CeCe and also gave us ideas and exercises to continue with. Highly recommend nerve release sessions with Cassandra!

    - Sidney Day

  • Cassandra is an absolute blessing! Her deep knowledge and skilled hands bring remarkable changes to both the bodies and minds of the horses she works with. Through her expertise in BTMM nerve release techniques and bodywork, she listens to each horse with incredible intuition, identifying areas of discomfort and tension that others might overlook.
    We first connected through the BTMM community, having both completed the nerve release training classes and attended the riding portion of the program. This shared foundation has been invaluable—not only in our understanding of the horse’s body but also in improving my own riding. When Cassandra comes to the barn, she doesn’t just work with my horses; she spends time with me as a rider to ensure I can support and maintain the positive changes Ruger and I have established.
    What sets Cassandra apart is her ability to connect with the horse on a level that goes beyond just physical work—she truly understands their needs and responds with the perfect touch. The transformations she facilitates are nothing short of amazing, helping horses move more freely, feel more comfortable, and perform at their best. Whether it's a performance horse needing fine-tuning or a companion needing relief, Cassandra’s work makes a lasting difference.
    We are so fortunate to have her available in our WNY area, and I can’t recommend her highly enough to anyone looking to improve their horse’s well-being and relationship with their human!

    - Lynn Kelly

  • Recommend! I’ve tried every calming supplement from off the shelf and vet administered to natural remedies and the biggest improvement was Cassandra coming out and doing the BTMM Nerve Release Therapy! 

    My boy is a very stressed and anxious horse (being gelded at 5 didn’t help) yet it’s been a week and a half and we are still enjoying the after effects! We’ve had quiet rides without bolting (usually an occurrence of 5-20 times a ride) & minor spooking if he does at all now.

    The Biggest change; I’m currently watching him eat his grain in a stall!!! Never has he been able to eat his grain in his stall, usually he’s trotting and weaving. 

    Irish genuinely seems happier with the edge of anxiety taken off He still licks and chews when on cross ties. 

    Happy Clients !

    -Dakota Wicklum