12/12/2025
Honoring the Horse. Honoring the Calling.
My name is Danielle Jacqueline White, formerly Roberts. My childhood best friend Vanessa Gottlieb () and I co-founded Bright Strides in 2017. We are so grateful for the community that continues to grow with us over the years!
With 31 years in the equine world, my path moved from hunter jumper and combined training into pleasure and trail riding, and ultimately into my true vocation as an Equine Therapist and Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning. My work centers on presence, emotional attunement, and honoring the horse as a partner in healing.
My first horse, Hershey, made this clear early. At the Hampton Classic he reared, took down the tent, and bucked and reared through the entire class—a sign our path was not in competition. I listened.
In 2012, I founded The Grateful Pony Art & Equestrian Center, which evolved into Bright Strides, now a 501(c)(3) offering art- and equine-based therapeutic support. Hershey now guides me metaphysically alongside Hiro, KitKat, and Snickers.
Today, I offer high-level coaching and mentorship, integrating nature-based art, equine therapy, and somatic healing for those seeking deeper connection with their horses and with themselves.
Our vision is bold:
to expand the Bright Strides Constellation and build our first residential healing center, growing into a nationwide constellation rooted in equine rescue and compassionate care.
All donations at BrightStrides.org/donate support our herd and our mission.
To learn more about virtual sessions and mentorship, or to explore the healing language of horsemanship, DM 🐎
The field is open.
