The Trust
Technique®
A profoundly gentle, mindfulness-based approach that resolves behavioural issues by replacing fear with trust. No force, no dominance—just pure connection.
What is the Trust Technique?
Developed by James French, the Trust Technique® is based on the theory that animals and humans share feelings. When an animal is reacting with aggression, fear, or anxiety, they are operating at high "thinking levels". Often, as their owners, we subconsciously match these levels with our own frustration or worry.
I am the only certified domestic and large animal Trust Technique Practitioner in New Zealand. Because animals are so sensitive to our emotional states, they begin to mirror this peace. Over time, we use this shared bubble of safety to help the animal overcome deep-seated traumas and triggers.
"It takes away the 'make / dominance / I'm the boss' conversations and replaces it with trust, confidence, peace and love."
How It Works
The technique relies on three core principles that build upon one another to create lasting behavioural change.
Trust Technique: Introducing Creative Reaction
This first acknowledgement of how animals are highly sensitive to our feelings starts a completely different conversation and changes everything.
Shared Emotional Environment
From here we explore the shared emotional environment between you and your animal and learn how to support them through fear or reactivity.
Building Trust
In this shared calm space you learn to work with your animal without judgement. Situations your animal would normally react to are introduced at a pace they can handle, gradually replacing anxiety and fear with trust. This approach works with any animal and can be a powerful turning point for both you and your dog.
Why Choose This Method?
Let's find the right path
for your animal.
Whether you have an anxious dog, a fearful horse, or a rescue animal with a difficult past — Cheryl can help. Sessions available in Wellington or online globally.