Join Rupert Isaacson as he sits down with award-winning occupational therapist, speaker, and bestselling author Kim Barthel. With over 40 years of experience, Kim shares her insights into the transformative power of neuroscience, trauma therapy, and relational healing. Discover how emotional safety, attunement, and the natural wisdom of the body guide people toward resilience and empowerment.
In this episode, Kim reflects on her groundbreaking work with trauma, her encounters with luminaries like Temple Grandin, and the role of humor and authenticity in therapeutic spaces. From practical tools like the “Butterfly Tap” to her work in Canada’s indigenous communities, Kim brings profound lessons for equine-assisted practitioners and anyone passionate about healing.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
- Kim’s Background and Journey (Starts at 00:02:57)
Kim discusses her early career as an occupational therapist and her pioneering work in sensory integration and neuroscience. She highlights her path from a love of movement to becoming a global leader in trauma and relational healing. - Understanding Emotional Safety and Connection (Starts at 00:10:45)
Kim explains the science behind emotional safety and its role in neuroplasticity. She offers practical tools for therapists and equestrians to create trust and foster growth. - The Role of Horses in Healing (Starts at 00:20:04)
Kim shares her experiences with equine therapy, emphasizing how horses act as powerful facilitators of movement, connection, and relational healing. - The Importance of Attunement (Starts at 00:42:45)
Kim shares real-life examples of how attunement creates opportunities for healing, highlighting its importance when working with trauma and neurodivergence. - Kim’s Work with Indigenous Communities (Starts at 01:20:04)
Kim reflects on her work with Canada’s indigenous communities, focusing on reconnecting with cultural wisdom and integrating land-based learning to support healing and education. - How to Address Shame in Trauma Work (Starts at 01:35:45)
Kim discusses practical tools to help individuals navigate shame, explaining how sensory integration and compassionate attunement can transform self-beliefs. - The Power of Somatic Practices (Starts at 01:40:30)
Kim explains the benefits of somatic practices, such as the “Butterfly Tap,” to help individuals ground themselves and reconnect with their bodies.
Memorable Moments from the Episode
- Kim recalls her first encounter with Temple Grandin, where Temple’s insights into sensory processing profoundly shaped her work (00:11:02).
- Rupert reflects on his time with Kalahari Bushmen, drawing parallels between their parenting approaches and the need for emotional safety in equine therapy (00:26:00).
- Kim discusses the interplay of neuroscience and movement, exploring how the brain creates new pathways through repetition and sensory input (00:30:00).
- Kim shares a moving story about a Ukrainian veteran navigating trauma and resilience during the early days of the conflict (01:19:00).
- Rupert and Kim explore how humor acts as a bridge to connection, allowing both clients and practitioners to find relief and authenticity during difficult moments (01:25:15).
- Kim reflects on the significance of self-regulation for practitioners, emphasizing the value of authenticity and self-awareness in trauma work (01:47:00).
Related Videos
From New Trails Learning Systems:
- Ep 18: Unlocking Equine Wisdom with Linda Tellington-Jones | Equine Assisted World Podcast
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JI9C-ZusHLE - Equine Therapy Certification: Horse Boy Method The Original Equine-Assisted Method for Autism & ADHD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3PDNXUK89E - Takhin Equine Therapy Certification: Empower Clients, Rehab Horses, and Save Time
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Nbr0aQf1cI - Ep 12: Warwick Schiller – Attuned Horsemanship & Journey On Podcast Summit
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGLv4OwAmkw
From Long Ride Home:
- Ep 18: Ari Honarvar – Bridging Divides Through Art and Connection | Live Free Ride Free Podcast
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3m0zZMRuSg - Classical Dressage: Old Master’s System adapted to today’s rider; Joy with your horse; Helios Harmony
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxNDv-ej3m8 - Face Your Bull – Stoics – This doesn’t have to be something.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFXKjmXxSgI
Stay Connected
🌐 Kim Barthel: http://www.kimbarthel.ca
📘 Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/KimBarthelOTR
📸 Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/KimBarthelOTR
🎥 YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@labyrinthjourneys
🌐 Rupert Isaacson’s Programs: http://www.rupertisaacson.com
