About Us
Unlock Confidence & Leadership Through Horse-Guided Healing
At Takoda Equine Connections, we believe in the power of connection and the importance of living an authentic life. Our horses are more than companions — they’re partners in helping you find strength and clarity, walking alongside you as you navigate your personal journey.
This unique connection offers steady, nonjudgmental support. Horses have an incredible ability to sense the thoughts and emotions we often keep buried, helping you reconnect with yourself, manage stress, and move forward with confidence and purpose.
Our story behind the name. Takoda is a Native American name. It’s Sioux , meaning Friends With Everyone.
Pronunciation: Taa-KowD-ah
The Sioux Nation Called their horses Takoda as it complimented the horses senses and the bond between the Horse and rider.
Meet Diane
Diane Murray is a compassionate and skilled guide dedicated to helping others on their journey of personal growth and self-discovery. As a certified FEEL (Facilitated Equine Experiential Learning) facilitator, Diane combines her deep understanding of human connection with the intuitive wisdom of horses, creating powerful opportunities for transformation.
Since 2011, Diane has provided a nurturing, supportive environment as a specialized care foster parent with Nairn Family Homes, focusing on acceptance, self-awareness, attachment, and resilience. Her experience in trauma-informed care, attachment theory, and emotional resilience seamlessly transfers to her work as a FEEL facilitator, allowing her to create safe spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and empowered.
Diane has also expanded her work to support individuals with acquired brain injuries, helping them rebuild confidence and find new pathways to healing and growth. Her compassionate approach and tailored guidance foster resilience and transformation.
At Diane’s peaceful farm, visitors are welcomed not only by her but also by her beloved animal companions:
- Molly – a warm and affectionate dachshund who eagerly greets guests. • Roxy – a gentle, loving pony who welcomes newcomers with soft nickers. • Dudley – a thoughtful, cautious horse who ensures safety and trust. • Star – a strong and wise horse who provides steady leadership.
Diane’s passion for learning shines through her extensive background in equine studies and human development. She earned her Equine Business Management and western riding coaching certifications in the early ’90s and has continued building her expertise ever since. Throughout her fostering and equine work, she’s committed to applying knowledge to help others thrive.
Her professional training includes: • The Whole-Brain Child • Attachment Sensitive Parenting • Conscious Discipline • Trust-Based Relational Intervention • Trauma-Informed and Attachment-Focused Intervention
Diane’s unique ability to connect with both people and animals makes her an exceptional guide for personal growth and healing. Through Equine Experiential Learning, she helps individuals explore emotional healing, build self-awareness, and unlock their true potential.
Ready for self-discovery and transformational growth? Partner with horses in a supportive, peaceful environment. Reach out to Diane at 519-635-2381 or takodaequine@gmail.com. Learn more at www.takodaequine.com.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where individuals can rediscover their sense of self, strength, and purpose through meaningful connections with the herd and skilled facilitation. By engaging with the wisdom of the horses, clients awaken a renewed joy for life, build confidence, and develop a deeper sense of balance and emotional resilience. This unique experience fosters self-awareness, clear boundaries, and the ability to cultivate healthier, more fulfilling relationships — both with themselves and others.