When she would back away, Sharon would immediately respond by cuing Dahlia to trot a couple of circles. After two laps she would invite Dahlia back in to the center to approach the bridle. After about a half dozen repetitions, Dahlia was longing herself. She was starting to regain control of her emotions to the point that she could think this situation through. Stopping work equals comfort.
Comfort is an antidote for anxiety.
We merely arranged the options so that Dahlia could resolve the conflicts for herself. Additionally, the trainer has to stay relaxed and unfrustrated and take the time it takes for the horse to think things through. Before too long Dahlia was not only following Sharon and the bridle around the round corral, but she was reaching forward and touching it, exploring it with her nose. Sharon actually extended the bridle leather up the length of Dahlia's face with the bit up against her teeth, and Dahlia stood quietly with her ears pricked forward. Sharon felt that this was enough progress for one day.