Helping People Help Horses Since 2016
Schaeffer Bodyworks
Educator, Consultant, Advocate
In 2016, I became a certified Equine Bodyworker to provide wellness bodywork to my own horses who long suffered from the effects of traditional domestic horse keeping…
I shared the answers I found with local equine owners looking for their own holistic solutions…
Now, nearly a decade later…
Schaeffer Bodyworks, LLC continues to provide more than just physical bodywork in the Midwest area, but education and consultations to help other equine advocates answer the same questions that led me to where I am today.
Online Courses Offered:
Each course is designed to give horse owners and equine professionals practical tools to support better health, performance, and well-being in horses.
Certification Courses
Advanced Equine Massage Therapist Certification
IAAMB Accredited
Designed for first-time students and currently practicing equine massage therapists with emphasis placed on environmental factors and balance the whole horse.
Equine Craniosacral Therapist Certification
Designed for current or previously certified equine massage therapists seeking to expand their skillset. Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, energetically based technique ideal for sensitive or anxious horses that may not tolerate traditional massage.
Upcoming Events
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IDENTIFYING COMMON EQUINE COMPENSATION PATTERNS
Saturday September 12th 2026
Join SBW for an informative clinic discussion intended to help owners and professionals train your eye to recognize equine compensation patterns and how to support changes.
If you’re an owner or professional that struggles to connect the dots to common equine compensation issues-this is for you!
We will dive into more than just the muscular system-we will look at the horse as a whole, discuss the environmental support needs for function and the best ways to help support and correct common dysfunctions.
This event will be indoors and it is strictly a presentation
Please view the Facebook event for more details.
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SBWs 2026 FREE FALL WELLNESS DAY
THE IMPORTANCE OF TACK FIT
Saturday, November 14th 2026
Each year we try to bring a deeper understanding and awareness on a new equine related topic and this year is all about TACK!
A day full of presentations and demonstrations from professional saddle fitters and bit fitter from across the US!
April with SBW will present a brief presentation on common body soreness patterns seen as a result of poor fitting tack through a bodyworker lens.
Jordan Kopras from Saddles in Motion will talk to us about the very complex factors to consider when deciding what saddle fits you and your horses best!
Tiffani Radake with Hug Your Horse will discuss how Hidalgo Leather Tree Saddle could be the answer to your hard to fit horses.
Chloe Johnson with Spotted Horse Bit Fitting and Bodywork is going to help us understand that a bit isn’t just a bit-there’s many things to consider when ensuring your horse’s bit fits best.
We are currently accepting vendors for this event, please reach out to April for more information.
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SBW 2 DAY STUDENT/GRADUATE EVENT
October 9-10th, 2026
This event is open to anyone that has registered or completed any of SBWs professional certification classes!
Ciara Crawford and April Schaeffer are teaming up to present an immersive two day professional gathering - the topics will be announced soon!
(OPTIONAL) Thursday ride along: Join me on one of my client routes to shadow and ask questions about my personal client horses and see how I execute my sessions.
Friday and Saturday will start at 9am and wrap up around 4pm.
Please view the Facebook event for more details and how to register.
The Equine Advocate Podcast.
We spill the “TEA” on all things equine! Join us for our weekly podcast with April and other equine professional talking about all things nutrition, wellness, and education in the equine world.