Dr. McKissock is a seasoned recreation therapist, coach, and national authority in equine-assisted and nature-based interventions with over 30 years of professional experience. Her work bridges recreational therapy, wellness coaching, and experiential design, with a special focus on how outdoor, animal-assisted, and equine programs can support psychological and physical well being.
In her role as Associate Clinical Professor, she teaches core and advanced topics in recreational therapy, outdoor practice, and animal-assisted modalities. Her research focuses on the benefits of nature-based and equine-assisted interventions, particularly for veterans and other populations experiencing trauma or neurological diversity. She has published widely, speaks and facilitates training internationally, bringing evidence-informed approaches to real-world practice. She also serves as a subject matter expert and advocate in equine assisted services and nature based interventions contributing to policy and standards.