Training & Certification Overview

It is now well evidenced that pets are good for our health. Animals are assisting in therapeutic activities in a variety of settings, from schools, nursing homes, hospitals and prisons, to rehabilitation for veterans. Therapeutic riding improves motor co-ordination and sensory awareness for those with cognitive and physical disabilities. Horses engage us on an empathic, compassionate, emotional level, and heighten our awareness of how we relate to those around us. At The HERD Institute®, we believe that the relational nature of horses can help to facilitate any transitional process, be it at work or at home. We offer Certification Programs in Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy and Learning for practitioners to work in a range of settings with individuals, couples, families, and groups.

Horses live in the present moment and bring themselves into relationship authentically. Horses are highly attuned to human emotions and challenge us to stay congruent with our feelings when relating with them. In return, they offer us non-judgmental and honest feedback, and teach us to be more aware of the connections between our mind, body, and emotions through our breath and body sensations. This allows us the opportunity to make contact with ourselves and our environment and relate to others in a different way.