The HERD Institute® offers training and certifications in the art of equine-facilitated psychotherapy and learning. The HERD Institute® came to life through Dr. Veronica Lac’s desire to create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive space within the equine industry. Informed by her doctoral research, The HERD Model™ of incorporating horses into human services offers a cultural competence framework for practice.

As a multicultural transplant to the United States, Veronica yearned for a sense of belonging in community and has made it her mission to create an organization where historically marginalized folks would not only feel seen, heard, valued, and included, but centered in how we incorporate horses in the services we provide. Our international community prioritizes equine welfare and advocates for freedom, choice, and agency for all equines involved in human services.

We offer certifications to educators, coaches, equine professionals and mental health practitioners.  Our students and graduates come from diverse populations, communities, and experiences. Our instructors are experienced professionals in the field of equine facilitated psychotherapy and learning.  Our certifications are offered through a hybrid model of online learning and in-person workshops.