Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
HorseWork | PATH Intl Dual Credit Training
What is equine-assisted learning?
Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) is an experiential approach that uses guided interactions with horses to support the development of life skills — including emotional regulation, self-awareness, communication, and relational presence.
EAL is not therapy or horsemanship instruction. It’s a facilitated learning process grounded in connection and reflection, where the horse is an active participant — not a tool, but a partner.
PATH Intl. defines EAL as:
“An experiential learning approach that promotes the development of life skills for educational, professional, and personal goals through equine-assisted activities. EAL is facilitated by a PATH Intl. Certified Professional, in partnership with equines.”
What and who is HorseWork?
HorseWork is the education and training arm of Strides to Success, a nonprofit organization that has been shaping the field of equine-assisted learning for over 20 years.
This professional training program was created for educators, therapists, coaches, CTRI’s and ES’s, and horse professionals — who want to gain the confidence, skill, and support to offer effective EAL sessions with integrity and heart.
Strides has played a key role in developing the field through training, research, and policy, including the terminology consensus project, partnerships with PATH Intl., the VA, and national briefings on the power of equine-assisted services.
HorseWork offers a fully supported dual credit training combining:
PATH Intl. Fundamentals of EAL course
PATH Intl. approved specialty micro-credentials
Required hands-on practice with horses
Mentorship + feedback
Professional community
A direct pathway to credentialing
Who is HorseWork?
HorseWork was co-founded by Dr. Blair McKissock and Debbie Anderson in 2009. They serve as the administrators and lead faculty for HorseWork. HorseWork graduates can come back and serve as faculty instructors and facilitators at both in person and online education opportunities.
How is HorseWork connected to PATH Intl.?
Debbie Anderson and Dr. Blair McKissock — the educators behind HorseWork — were contracted by PATH Intl. to write and develop the Fundamentals of EAL course.
Because of their role in creating the content, HorseWork can offer the course in a comprehensive, hands-on format supporting students all the way through the process
HorseWork continues to collaborate with PATH Intl. and other leading organizations around the globe to support professional standards and best practices in EAL around the world.
Do I have to be PATH Intl. certified to take this program?
No. HorseWork is open to both certified professionals and those just beginning. You don’t need to have any previous credentials or degrees to start this journey — just willing to learn, show up, and stay curious.
Who is this training for?
HorseWork is for people who feel the call.
The call to support others through the wisdom, presence, and partnership of horses.
You might be a therapist, coach, educator, equine professional or simply someone who knows, deep down, this is the work you’re meant to do.
You don’t need a license or decades of experience.
You just need a willingness to learn, to reflect, and to answer the call with care and integrity.
If that’s you, you’re in the right place.
We’d be honored to walk this path with you.
Do I need horse experience?
Not necessarily. While it helps to be comfortable around horses, you don’t need to ride or be an expert. All work is primarily done on the ground. The focus is on presence, not performance. It is required that you have access to horses during the course of the program to gain the necessary experience to work capably with horses and other equines.
What's included in the program?
HorseWork is a comprehensive, guided training experience that gives you everything you need to confidently pursue your PATH Intl. Equine-Assisted Learning credential and stay connected long after.
Here’s what’s included:
✅ The full Fundamentals of EAL course
✅ A personal concierge to guide you step-by-step through the credentialing process
✅ Mentorship from Blair McKissock and Debbie Anderson, the co-creators of the PATH Fundamentals of EAL course
✅ Bi-weekly community calls for support, discussion, and integration
✅ Lifetime access to monthly alumni calls
✅ Practicum support: guidance through facilitation practice and experience-building
✅ Workbooks, tools, and resources to help you clarify your role and grow your business
✅ One PATH Intl.–approved micro-credential course (included), plus 50% off two others
✅ A curated package of books and goodies to make the learning journey smoother and more enjoyable
✅ Portfolio and video review to prepare you for credentialing with confidence
✅ Dedicated consulting hours to support your unique path
✅ Opportunities to collaborate on research and consulting projects as a HorseWork affiliate
It’s everything you need to not just complete your training, but to step into this work competently, confidently, and in community.
Where is the program held?
The program is a hybrid program including both online and in person learning. You are required to document practice work at your site and attend a 4-day hands-on intensive at Strides to Success located just minutes from the Indianapolis airport.
HorseWork believes real learning happens in real life — with horses, humans, and authentic experiences. You cannot learn this work in an online only format. The setting is part of the work.
Will I be certified after this program?
Yes! You earn 2 credentials in one program. Completing HorseWork fulfills the training requirement for the PATH Intl. Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) credential. You also earn the HorseWork EAL Facilitator Certification and your specialty micro-credential in one of 3 areas: personal development, organizations or education.
PATH Intl. and HorseWork credentials are accepted by most insurance companies, check with your organization to make sure. For many, this program is the most comprehensive and supported way to move from interest to true readiness into the field with confidence.
How long does it take?
The full program on average take 9 months to complete all 5 phases, though people do finish sooner. There is no time penalty for finishing early or taking longer than 9 months. Courses are offered twice per year as cohorts with one cohort beginning in January and the 2nd beginning in August. The program has 5 phases:
- Online PATH Intl. Fundamentals course.
- Practical work
- 60 hours of facilitation practice at your site of choice (does not have to be a PATH affiliated center)
- 4-day intensive onsite at Strides to Success
- Online Specialty micro-credential course
- Virtual mentoring
- PATH Intl. portfolio submission including video and lesson plans
Can international students participate?
Yes! HorseWork has affiliate programs in 3 different countries. If you are from a country where we do not have an affiliate, both Blair and Debbie are approved remote mentors for PATH Intl. We can work with you to fulfill your hands-on requirement through remote supervision.
Are payment plans or scholarships available?
Yes! We require a $650 deposit to secure your spot in the cohort. From there you can make arrangements to pay the balance monthly after the program begins. We do offer discounts for people who sign up as a staff or with a buddy and if you are paying in full. Partial scholarships are sometimes available. We want this professional credential to be accessible. We do ask that all fees are paid in full before you submit your portfolio to PATH Intl.
How do I get started?
Get started by completing the HorseWork application so we can get to know you. Then let’s talk.
We offer free Info Chats — no pressure, just space to ask questions, get clarity, and explore whether HorseWork is the right next step for you.