Our Story

From corporate leadership to purposeful passion

Growing up with horses, Alisha didn’t just learn how to ride; she learned how to survive. Through a personal journey involving self-image, confidence and recovery from addiction, horses remained her only safe space, their non-judgmental, empathetic nature offered comfort when the world felt loudest.

In 2020, after years in corporate leadership, Alisha pivoted from the boardroom to the barn, beginning her Equine-Assisted Learning journey with Dreamwinds/Cartier Farms. In 2021, Transitions Acres was born, a sanctuary where the horse-human connection fosters self-discovery and transformative “ah-ha” moments. Driven by a belief that the healing power of horses should be accessible to everyone, Alisha established Transitions as a non-profit, bridging the gap through community partnerships and grants so wellness-based equine programming is available to all, regardless of financial means.

Our mission & vision

Mission. To inspire wellness and personal growth through the healing connection between people and horses. In a welcoming, supportive environment, we help individuals build confidence, emotional strength and meaningful relationships, with themselves, with others, and with our herd.

Vision. To create a movement where equine-assisted wellness becomes a powerful force for personal and collective growth, inspiring stronger, healthier communities through the wisdom of the horse.

Award-winning leadership

• Canadian Choice Award Winner (2024–2026)
• Young Entrepreneur of the Year (2025), Community Futures & Woodstock Chamber of Commerce
• Tourism Oxford Best New Product Award
• Ontario Southwest Signature Experience, the Cowgirl Kickback

A holistic, professional approach

Alisha combines lived experience with an extensive toolkit of certifications: a Registered Riding Coach with Equestrian Canada, a Reiki Master Teacher (Canadian Reiki Association), an Equine Wellbeing Coach & Trainer, and certified in ASIST and SafeTalk (suicide intervention).

A family mission

Happily married and a proud mother of two, Alisha’s family is the heartbeat of the farm. Transitions Acres is a true family passion project, where every member plays a role in the daily care of the herd.

“With this program, my love for horses is beautifully intertwined with my passion for helping others. My once-broken rescue horses have found a renewed purpose, which means, here, everybody wins.”