OUR STAFF
Veronica Sosa Agnoli, MS, LPC, PATH Int., CTRI
Founder & CEO
Veronica Sosa Agnoli, MS, LPC is a bilingual school psychologist and psychotherapist and Co-founder of LifeStriders. She achieved a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Master of Science degree in School Psychology and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She is also certified by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) as a therapeutic riding instructor. Since 1996 she has worked in the inner cities of Los Angeles in a variety of multi-cultural educational and family counseling settings and more recently in Wisconsin. In 2004, Veronica co-founded LifeStriders and has been working as the Chief Executive Officer for this organization establishing LifeStriders as a leader in the field of equine facilitated and nature based, integrative therapies. Email
Founder & CEO
Veronica Sosa Agnoli, MS, LPC is a bilingual school psychologist and psychotherapist and Co-founder of LifeStriders. She achieved a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Master of Science degree in School Psychology and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She is also certified by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) as a therapeutic riding instructor. Since 1996 she has worked in the inner cities of Los Angeles in a variety of multi-cultural educational and family counseling settings and more recently in Wisconsin. In 2004, Veronica co-founded LifeStriders and has been working as the Chief Executive Officer for this organization establishing LifeStriders as a leader in the field of equine facilitated and nature based, integrative therapies. Email
Robert Conley, MSPT, PATH Int., CTRI
Founder, Executive VP
Rob Conley Co-founded LifeStriders in 2004 and serves as Executive Vice President and Secretary of its Board. He helped grow the organization from an idea into its current 23-acre campus in Waukesha, Wisconsin, providing integrative, nature-based therapies to individuals with special needs and their family systems. He previously served as President, and as Board Chair, and today leads clinical, capital, marketing, and property systems work while chairing the Endowment and the Architecture and Design committees.
Before and alongside that work, he spent two decades building software and businesses, holding roles including Chief Technology Officer, Vice President, Software Architect, Project Manager, Information Architect, UX Manager, Functional Analyst, Assistant Product Manager, and Senior Consultant across insurance, pharmaceutical research, education lending, and ecommerce verticals. He also served as President of a private-label brand and importing venture. He holds a Master of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Denver. Email
Founder, Executive VP
Rob Conley Co-founded LifeStriders in 2004 and serves as Executive Vice President and Secretary of its Board. He helped grow the organization from an idea into its current 23-acre campus in Waukesha, Wisconsin, providing integrative, nature-based therapies to individuals with special needs and their family systems. He previously served as President, and as Board Chair, and today leads clinical, capital, marketing, and property systems work while chairing the Endowment and the Architecture and Design committees.
Before and alongside that work, he spent two decades building software and businesses, holding roles including Chief Technology Officer, Vice President, Software Architect, Project Manager, Information Architect, UX Manager, Functional Analyst, Assistant Product Manager, and Senior Consultant across insurance, pharmaceutical research, education lending, and ecommerce verticals. He also served as President of a private-label brand and importing venture. He holds a Master of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Denver. Email
Amber Osterberger, PATH Intl. CTRI, LEAP Certified
Program Manger
Therapeutic Program Instructor
Amber is a PATH, Int. certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor who started started volunteering in 2007 and gained experience working with children with Autism or ASD. She was inspired by the individuals she worked with that she became trained in ABA therapy in 2009. Amber then started teaching at a Developmental Training Center in 2010 where she was was able to gain experience working with children and adolescents that had significant social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties. The program adhered to principles and practices from several therapeutic approaches, including collaborative problem-solving, positive behavior supports, and trauma informed care. Amber has been working with horses since 2000 for both pleasure and show. She was certified as a therapeutic riding instructor through PATH International in 2013 which has allowed her to combine her love of teaching with horses. Email
Program Manger
Therapeutic Program Instructor
Amber is a PATH, Int. certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor who started started volunteering in 2007 and gained experience working with children with Autism or ASD. She was inspired by the individuals she worked with that she became trained in ABA therapy in 2009. Amber then started teaching at a Developmental Training Center in 2010 where she was was able to gain experience working with children and adolescents that had significant social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties. The program adhered to principles and practices from several therapeutic approaches, including collaborative problem-solving, positive behavior supports, and trauma informed care. Amber has been working with horses since 2000 for both pleasure and show. She was certified as a therapeutic riding instructor through PATH International in 2013 which has allowed her to combine her love of teaching with horses. Email
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Carol Blasier, LEAP Certified
Volunteer and Equine Skills Manager Carol has dedicated the majority of her life to working with horses, bringing decades of experience in raising, training, and matching horses with riders of all ages. Her passion for fostering meaningful connections between people and horses has guided her work—whether she was training young equestrians, mentoring seasoned riders, or helping individuals find their ideal equine partner. She finds deep fulfillment in witnessing the joy, growth, and confidence that horses inspire in people. After retiring in 2023, Carol was introduced to LifeStriders and was immediately moved by the organization’s mission and impact. The exceptional care given to both the riders and the horses resonated deeply with her values and lifelong commitment to the equine community. She quickly knew she wanted to be part of the LifeStriders team. Today, Carol brings her wealth of knowledge and heartfelt dedication to LifeStriders, where she continues to support and enrich the lives of individuals through therapeutic and recreational riding. For her, being part of LifeStriders is not just a role—it’s an honor and a continuation of her life’s work. Email |
Joe Owens
Field Operations Manager
Joe's journey at LifeStriders began in May 2023, bringing with him a passion for service and the outdoors. His dedication as a volunteer, coupled with his love for nature, made him a natural fit for the team. Joe holds a bachelor's degree in sport management from Concordia University St. Paul. Following his studies, he enlisted in the military and served in the Global War on Terrorism.
After his military service, Joe sought a career with the City of Waukesha Park Department, where his experience in land management and his love of nature continued to influence his work. His passion and care for animals play a crucial role at LifeStriders, where he excels in sharing his expertise with new volunteers. By equipping them with essential knowledge and skills, volunteers learn from Joe how to recognize and respond appropriately to a horse's signals, understand the importance of proper grooming and feeding, and grasp the fundamentals of training techniques.
Joe's enthusiasm for his role at LifeStriders is evident in his proactive leadership on the buildings and grounds committee. He works closely with the executive team to plan and execute a healthy environmental ecosystem on the farm. Joe is an integral part of connecting volunteers, staff, and clients, often mentoring youth and exemplifying leadership and character building. Inspired by the strong sense of community that LifeStriders fosters, Joe is excited to be part of the LifeStriders team of professionals.
Field Operations Manager
Joe's journey at LifeStriders began in May 2023, bringing with him a passion for service and the outdoors. His dedication as a volunteer, coupled with his love for nature, made him a natural fit for the team. Joe holds a bachelor's degree in sport management from Concordia University St. Paul. Following his studies, he enlisted in the military and served in the Global War on Terrorism.
After his military service, Joe sought a career with the City of Waukesha Park Department, where his experience in land management and his love of nature continued to influence his work. His passion and care for animals play a crucial role at LifeStriders, where he excels in sharing his expertise with new volunteers. By equipping them with essential knowledge and skills, volunteers learn from Joe how to recognize and respond appropriately to a horse's signals, understand the importance of proper grooming and feeding, and grasp the fundamentals of training techniques.
Joe's enthusiasm for his role at LifeStriders is evident in his proactive leadership on the buildings and grounds committee. He works closely with the executive team to plan and execute a healthy environmental ecosystem on the farm. Joe is an integral part of connecting volunteers, staff, and clients, often mentoring youth and exemplifying leadership and character building. Inspired by the strong sense of community that LifeStriders fosters, Joe is excited to be part of the LifeStriders team of professionals.
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Erin Hamilton
Volunteer and Herd Manager Erin joined LifeStriders in October 2024 as the Volunteer and Herd Manager, bringing a lifelong passion for both people and horses to her role. Her equestrian journey began in 2004 through her local 4-H chapter and the National Pony of the Americas Club, where she gained early experience in riding and showing ponies. In 2013, Erin moved to Minneapolis to attend the University of Minnesota, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts with a focus on Stage Management. Through her academic and professional experiences, she developed strong skills in leadership, communication, administration, and operations—skills she later applied in customer service, event coordination, and administrative roles. Driven by a deep love for horses, Erin made a career shift in 2020, starting as a Stable Assistant at her lesson barn. She was soon hired by the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, where she cared for the university’s teaching horses, focusing on their health, wellness, and emotional enrichment. In 2024, Erin and her husband returned to their home state of Wisconsin. She is grateful for the opportunity to be part of the LifeStriders team, where she combines her skills and passions by managing a dedicated volunteer team and ensuring the well-being of the organization’s therapeutic herd. Email |
Melissa Marshall, MA-LPC, COTA/L, PATH Intl. CTRI, LEAP Certified
Psychotherapist
Social Skills Facilitator
Therapeutic Program Instructor
Melissa is a Licensed Professional Counselor and has been a part of LifeStriders since August of 2014. Melissa received her Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh in 2010. While in Oshkosh Melissa began working as a line therapist facilitating in-home ABA therapy with children with Autism and Down syndrome.
Upon returning home Melissa pursued her Masters in the Art of Counseling degree in 2012. While completing her Masters, Melissa began working with at-risk youth and families through the Milwaukee County Children's Court system as a Wraparound Care Coordinator. During her final year of graduate school, Melissa chose to leave Wraparound Milwaukee to focus on her schooling, leading her to LifeStriders.
In August of 2015, Melissa graduated with her Masters in the Art of Counseling degree and joined the LifeStriders team as a Social Skills facilitator and psychotherapist. Being a part of LifeStriders has allowed Melissa to combine her passions in life: Nature, adventure, and helping others. Email
Psychotherapist
Social Skills Facilitator
Therapeutic Program Instructor
Melissa is a Licensed Professional Counselor and has been a part of LifeStriders since August of 2014. Melissa received her Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh in 2010. While in Oshkosh Melissa began working as a line therapist facilitating in-home ABA therapy with children with Autism and Down syndrome.
Upon returning home Melissa pursued her Masters in the Art of Counseling degree in 2012. While completing her Masters, Melissa began working with at-risk youth and families through the Milwaukee County Children's Court system as a Wraparound Care Coordinator. During her final year of graduate school, Melissa chose to leave Wraparound Milwaukee to focus on her schooling, leading her to LifeStriders.
In August of 2015, Melissa graduated with her Masters in the Art of Counseling degree and joined the LifeStriders team as a Social Skills facilitator and psychotherapist. Being a part of LifeStriders has allowed Melissa to combine her passions in life: Nature, adventure, and helping others. Email
Brooke Strye, MS, LPC-IT, LEAP Certified
Program Counselor
Social Skills Facilitator
Brooke is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Training (LPC-IT) and currently serves as the Social Skills Program Coordinator at LifeStriders. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marquette University.
Throughout her academic and professional journey, Brooke has focused on supporting individuals with diverse needs. She has extensive experience as a behavior technician, providing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to children and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. During her graduate studies, she also completed a clinical internship working with adolescents experiencing emotional, behavioral, and substance use challenges.
Brooke began volunteering at LifeStriders in March 2025, where she quickly found a strong connection to the mission, the community, and the therapeutic power of horses. LifeStriders provides an ideal environment for Brooke to combine her passion for mental health, nature, and equine-assisted services in a meaningful and impactful way. Email
Program Counselor
Social Skills Facilitator
Brooke is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Training (LPC-IT) and currently serves as the Social Skills Program Coordinator at LifeStriders. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marquette University.
Throughout her academic and professional journey, Brooke has focused on supporting individuals with diverse needs. She has extensive experience as a behavior technician, providing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to children and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. During her graduate studies, she also completed a clinical internship working with adolescents experiencing emotional, behavioral, and substance use challenges.
Brooke began volunteering at LifeStriders in March 2025, where she quickly found a strong connection to the mission, the community, and the therapeutic power of horses. LifeStriders provides an ideal environment for Brooke to combine her passion for mental health, nature, and equine-assisted services in a meaningful and impactful way. Email
Samantha Gleason PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
Therapeutic Program Instructor
Sam’s passion for horses began at an early age and has only continued to grow over the years. Introduced to equine-assisted therapy by her mother, Sam was inspired to pursue a career in physical therapy with a specialized focus on hippotherapy.
Her journey with LifeStriders began as a dedicated volunteer, where she also completed additional shadowing experiences while pursuing her Doctorate in Physical Therapy. In January 2024, Sam joined the LifeStriders team as a student physical therapist. She earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Carroll University in May 2024 and returned to LifeStriders as a therapeutic riding instructor, later transitioning into her current role as a licensed physical therapist.
Sam is passionate about delivering holistic, individualized care to support functional goals and promote optimal physical development. She is grateful to be part of a collaborative and compassionate team that is committed to providing comprehensive, whole-body care through evidence-based practices and the healing power of the horse. Email
Physical Therapist
Therapeutic Program Instructor
Sam’s passion for horses began at an early age and has only continued to grow over the years. Introduced to equine-assisted therapy by her mother, Sam was inspired to pursue a career in physical therapy with a specialized focus on hippotherapy.
Her journey with LifeStriders began as a dedicated volunteer, where she also completed additional shadowing experiences while pursuing her Doctorate in Physical Therapy. In January 2024, Sam joined the LifeStriders team as a student physical therapist. She earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Carroll University in May 2024 and returned to LifeStriders as a therapeutic riding instructor, later transitioning into her current role as a licensed physical therapist.
Sam is passionate about delivering holistic, individualized care to support functional goals and promote optimal physical development. She is grateful to be part of a collaborative and compassionate team that is committed to providing comprehensive, whole-body care through evidence-based practices and the healing power of the horse. Email
Anna Niemuth LAT, ACT
Therapeutic Program Instructor
Anna brings a strong background in athletic training, sports medicine, orthopedics, and human movement to LifeStriders. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training from Concordia University Wisconsin in 2015 and has experience providing compassionate care in high school, collegiate, and clinical concussion research settings.
Most recently, Anna spent three years supporting Concordia University Wisconsin’s cross country, track and field, and triathlon teams, where she developed a special interest in chronic and overuse injuries. Her experience with gait analysis, postural correction, core strengthening, and functional movement brings an exciting new dimension to the LifeStriders team.
Anna believes that meaningful progress begins with building trust, establishing clear goals, and making movement both functional and fun. She is excited to combine her knowledge of the human body and movement with her servant heart and passion for helping others in LifeStriders’ unique nature-based, equine setting.
Her connection with horses began with her first riding lesson at age 10, making her opportunity to join the LifeStriders team especially meaningful. She looks forward to using her professional experience and love of horses to help participants build confidence, strength, and independence.
Outside of LifeStriders, Anna is a mom to two school-aged children and two rescue pups, Roku and Kora. She and her family enjoy camping, exploring local restaurants, and playing games of all kinds. In her free time, Anna can usually be found knitting, crocheting, or getting lost in a good book. Email
Therapeutic Program Instructor
Anna brings a strong background in athletic training, sports medicine, orthopedics, and human movement to LifeStriders. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training from Concordia University Wisconsin in 2015 and has experience providing compassionate care in high school, collegiate, and clinical concussion research settings.
Most recently, Anna spent three years supporting Concordia University Wisconsin’s cross country, track and field, and triathlon teams, where she developed a special interest in chronic and overuse injuries. Her experience with gait analysis, postural correction, core strengthening, and functional movement brings an exciting new dimension to the LifeStriders team.
Anna believes that meaningful progress begins with building trust, establishing clear goals, and making movement both functional and fun. She is excited to combine her knowledge of the human body and movement with her servant heart and passion for helping others in LifeStriders’ unique nature-based, equine setting.
Her connection with horses began with her first riding lesson at age 10, making her opportunity to join the LifeStriders team especially meaningful. She looks forward to using her professional experience and love of horses to help participants build confidence, strength, and independence.
Outside of LifeStriders, Anna is a mom to two school-aged children and two rescue pups, Roku and Kora. She and her family enjoy camping, exploring local restaurants, and playing games of all kinds. In her free time, Anna can usually be found knitting, crocheting, or getting lost in a good book. Email
Martha Holterman, MSOT R/L, LEAP Certified
Occupational Therapist
Martha earned her master’s degree in Occupational Therapy in 2021 from Mount Mary University and is dedicated to supporting individuals in leading meaningful, independent lives. Martha has experience working with people across the lifespan, including toddlers, children, teenagers, adults, and older adults. These diverse experiences have shaped her flexible and compassionate approach to care. With a lifelong love of horses and nature, Martha brings a calm, grounded, and holistic perspective to her practice. She values the therapeutic benefits of connecting with the natural world and strives to create a supportive and engaging environment where clients feel empowered, capable, and motivated to grow. Email
Occupational Therapist
Martha earned her master’s degree in Occupational Therapy in 2021 from Mount Mary University and is dedicated to supporting individuals in leading meaningful, independent lives. Martha has experience working with people across the lifespan, including toddlers, children, teenagers, adults, and older adults. These diverse experiences have shaped her flexible and compassionate approach to care. With a lifelong love of horses and nature, Martha brings a calm, grounded, and holistic perspective to her practice. She values the therapeutic benefits of connecting with the natural world and strives to create a supportive and engaging environment where clients feel empowered, capable, and motivated to grow. Email
Nicole Neidinger, BS, PATH Intl. CTRI, LEAP Certified
Therapeutic Program Instructor
Volunteering since 2006, Nicole has gained experience with children and adults with social, emotional, cognitive, physical and psychological needs. She became a certified therapeutic riding instructor in 2013. Nicole has been working with horses since 2006 riding primarily western pleasure. Becoming a certified therapeutic riding instructor through PATH International has allowed Nicole to combine her love of horses with therapeutic interventions. Email
Therapeutic Program Instructor
Volunteering since 2006, Nicole has gained experience with children and adults with social, emotional, cognitive, physical and psychological needs. She became a certified therapeutic riding instructor in 2013. Nicole has been working with horses since 2006 riding primarily western pleasure. Becoming a certified therapeutic riding instructor through PATH International has allowed Nicole to combine her love of horses with therapeutic interventions. Email
Rachel Piwarun MPAS, LEAP Certified
Volunteer and Equine Skills Program Coordinator
Therapeutic Program Instructor
Barn Manager
Rachel has been riding horses since the age of 9 and began volunteering with LifeStriders in 2005. While continuing to volunteer, she attended Marquette University, where she earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree in 2010.
Rachel spent several years working as a physician assistant in family practice and pediatrics, but she always found herself drawn back to horses and therapeutic riding, which remained her true passion. In 2021, she was given the opportunity to join the LifeStriders team as a Volunteer Coordinator and Therapeutic Riding Instructor, and she hasn’t looked back!
Over the years, Rachel’s role has grown to include barn management and assisting with the Equine Skills Development Program, in addition to therapeutic riding. She loves every part of her work and is grateful to be able to combine her love of horses with her passion for helping others.
Outside of LifeStriders, Rachel enjoys spending time with her husband, their two sons, and their several family pets. Email
Volunteer and Equine Skills Program Coordinator
Therapeutic Program Instructor
Barn Manager
Rachel has been riding horses since the age of 9 and began volunteering with LifeStriders in 2005. While continuing to volunteer, she attended Marquette University, where she earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree in 2010.
Rachel spent several years working as a physician assistant in family practice and pediatrics, but she always found herself drawn back to horses and therapeutic riding, which remained her true passion. In 2021, she was given the opportunity to join the LifeStriders team as a Volunteer Coordinator and Therapeutic Riding Instructor, and she hasn’t looked back!
Over the years, Rachel’s role has grown to include barn management and assisting with the Equine Skills Development Program, in addition to therapeutic riding. She loves every part of her work and is grateful to be able to combine her love of horses with her passion for helping others.
Outside of LifeStriders, Rachel enjoys spending time with her husband, their two sons, and their several family pets. Email
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Tracy Stauffacher
Volunteer Coordinator Tracy brings years of experience in community engagement and a deep appreciation for helping others grow into their best selves. After years of watching her nieces ride, jump, and barrel race, she was thrilled at the opportunity to combine her deep appreciation for how horses can help a child grow with such a passionate and impactful organization. Starting at LifeStriders in 2024, she oversees volunteer recruitment, training, and scheduling—creating a positive and inclusive environment where volunteers can thrive. As a Volunteer Coordinator at LifeStriders, Tracy is passionate about building meaningful connections between volunteers and the transformative work of equine-assisted services. With a heart for service and a talent for technology, her goal is to ensure that every volunteer feels welcomed, supported, and empowered to make a difference. Email |
Chrystal Stephens, PATH Intl. CTRI, LEAP Certified
Consultant
Therapeutic Program Instructor
Since 2008, Chrystal has been working with children and adults with social-emotional, cognitive, physical and psychological needs. Incorporating elements of cognitive behavior therapy, occupational therapy and other modalities, she is able to teach social skills, team building, conflict resolution and other life skills to best meet the needs of each client. Becoming certified as a therapeutic riding instructor through PATH International, has enabled Chrystal to combine her love of horses, training expertise, and years of experience working with special needs individuals. Her life has been immersed in horses since 1998, primarily training for show, giving lessons focused on classic seat, and working with owners to build stronger bonds and lasting working relationships with their horses. Email
Consultant
Therapeutic Program Instructor
Since 2008, Chrystal has been working with children and adults with social-emotional, cognitive, physical and psychological needs. Incorporating elements of cognitive behavior therapy, occupational therapy and other modalities, she is able to teach social skills, team building, conflict resolution and other life skills to best meet the needs of each client. Becoming certified as a therapeutic riding instructor through PATH International, has enabled Chrystal to combine her love of horses, training expertise, and years of experience working with special needs individuals. Her life has been immersed in horses since 1998, primarily training for show, giving lessons focused on classic seat, and working with owners to build stronger bonds and lasting working relationships with their horses. Email
OUR CONTRACTORS
Nicole Mueller
Volunteer Coordinator
Nicole has been part of the LifeStriders community since 2017 and is passionate about supporting both volunteers and the individuals they serve. After discovering hippotherapy, she knew occupational therapy would be the perfect way to combine her love of horses with helping others. Nicole relocated to the Milwaukee area in 2017 to attend Mount Mary University, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a Pre-Occupational Therapy concentration and began volunteering at LifeStriders. When the Volunteer Coordinator role became available, Nicole was excited to bring together her passion for social justice and her experience with equine assisted therapies to help advance LifeStriders’ mission. She went on to earn her Entry-Level Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from Mount Mary University. Nicole is grateful to work with such dedicated volunteers and loves helping them find meaning and joy in their time at LifeStriders. Email
Volunteer Coordinator
Nicole has been part of the LifeStriders community since 2017 and is passionate about supporting both volunteers and the individuals they serve. After discovering hippotherapy, she knew occupational therapy would be the perfect way to combine her love of horses with helping others. Nicole relocated to the Milwaukee area in 2017 to attend Mount Mary University, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a Pre-Occupational Therapy concentration and began volunteering at LifeStriders. When the Volunteer Coordinator role became available, Nicole was excited to bring together her passion for social justice and her experience with equine assisted therapies to help advance LifeStriders’ mission. She went on to earn her Entry-Level Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from Mount Mary University. Nicole is grateful to work with such dedicated volunteers and loves helping them find meaning and joy in their time at LifeStriders. Email
JoAnn Krofta, PT
Physical Therapist
JoAnn graduated from Marquette University with a Bachelor of Science degree in physical therapy in 1975. She has worked with children from birth to 21 years of age in a variety of settings which include Penfield Children's Center, Oconomowoc Developmental Training Center, and, most recently in the Waukesha Public Schools. Following her retirement in June 2017, she began volunteering at LifeStriders. She has always believed in the therapeutic benefits of using horses as a treatment strategy to improve an individual's motor, cognitive, social, emotional and language skills. Retirement has provided an opportunity to pursue this interest and to continue her passion for helping individuals to optimize their potential. She joined the LifeStriders team as a physical therapist in October 2017 and is very excited to be a part of such an amazing and and caring group of individuals. Email
Physical Therapist
JoAnn graduated from Marquette University with a Bachelor of Science degree in physical therapy in 1975. She has worked with children from birth to 21 years of age in a variety of settings which include Penfield Children's Center, Oconomowoc Developmental Training Center, and, most recently in the Waukesha Public Schools. Following her retirement in June 2017, she began volunteering at LifeStriders. She has always believed in the therapeutic benefits of using horses as a treatment strategy to improve an individual's motor, cognitive, social, emotional and language skills. Retirement has provided an opportunity to pursue this interest and to continue her passion for helping individuals to optimize their potential. She joined the LifeStriders team as a physical therapist in October 2017 and is very excited to be a part of such an amazing and and caring group of individuals. Email
Arieana Osterberger
Clerical Assistant / Equine Specialist / Barn Manager
Arie began volunteering with LifeStriders in 2017 and was immediately drawn to the organization’s welcoming atmosphere and mission. With a lifelong connection to horses, she quickly recognized the powerful and transformative impact they can have on individuals.
Driven by a deep passion for helping others overcome personal challenges, Arie brings a strength-based, compassionate approach to her work with families at LifeStriders. Her experience at the organization continues to shape her understanding of the meaningful impact she hopes to make in the world as she pursues her future career path.
Arie is honored to contribute to the LifeStriders community and remains dedicated to supporting participants through connection, empathy, and the healing power of the horse-human bond.
Denise Morrow, CTRI, LEAP Certified
Therapeutic Program Instructor
Denise grew up on a farm in Colorado, where horses were an essential part of daily life. From helping with farm work to competing in youth rodeos as a barrel racer, she developed a deep and lasting connection to horses at a young age.
After raising her family, Denise rekindled her love for horses and began volunteering at LifeStriders in 2013. Inspired by the profound impact equine-assisted services had on participants, she pursued her certification and became a PATH International Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor in 2016.
Denise finds great fulfillment in helping individuals achieve goals they may not have believed possible. She is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and is proud to be part of a team that empowers and uplifts through the healing power of horses.
Therapeutic Program Instructor
Denise grew up on a farm in Colorado, where horses were an essential part of daily life. From helping with farm work to competing in youth rodeos as a barrel racer, she developed a deep and lasting connection to horses at a young age.
After raising her family, Denise rekindled her love for horses and began volunteering at LifeStriders in 2013. Inspired by the profound impact equine-assisted services had on participants, she pursued her certification and became a PATH International Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor in 2016.
Denise finds great fulfillment in helping individuals achieve goals they may not have believed possible. She is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and is proud to be part of a team that empowers and uplifts through the healing power of horses.
