As a volunteer for a local equine therapy center for many years my ultimate goal was to become a Horse Handler. I loved working with horses & was excited to learn more about them in order to enhance my ability to interact with them as well as the participants. 

When I started working with Erica Morales as an instructor, I was amazed at her quiet strength & respectful approach to teaching volunteers as demonstrated by her patient & empathetic leadership. An important aspect of her phenomenal teaching style was pointing out the “why” behind every cue and comment which enriched my confidence and knowledge as a volunteer.

This mutual transformation and profound connections allowed for an environment of respect & collaboration which in turn allowed for an invaluable experience of applicable skills that enhanced my personal growth where I felt valued and more capable as a part of the organization. Erica’s teaching style shines with her knowledge, her enthusiasm, her passion for teaching, her incredible sense of humor, and has made a significant difference demonstrating dedication and a genuine love & care for the volunteers, horses, & participants! 

Babs B.

Erica was my daughter, Adelia’s equine therapy instructor. Adelia happened to have been born with Down syndrome, and was later diagnosed with autism.

Very few people can get, and hold Adelia’s attention like Erica did. Adelia can easily become overstimulated, and Erica would always handle the situation beautifully. Not only was she excellent at redirecting Adelia to another fun activity, she helped Adelia recover and enjoy the remainder of the lesson.

Erica not only made Adelia at ease, her presence and energy around the horse made a world of difference, too. A successful equine therapy lesson begins with the horse, and with Erica directing the way, everyone had a wonderful experience. 

Renee, parent to Adelia B.

I have been a volunteer horse handler with Erica for several years and observed how engaging she is with her clients. She tailors each class to their needs creating a fun learning environment.   I have personally learned so much from her depth of knowledge of horsemanship and horse care.  Due to this I have improved my own communication skills and understanding of horse behavior.  Anyone who has the opportunity to work with her will be touched by her kind and generous spirit!  

Tracey W.

Erica at Bill’s Hoof and Heart is exceptional. She brings a rare balance of professionalism, creativity, and genuine care to everything she does. As a PATH-certified instructor, she stays focused not only on her clients, but equally on the well-being, comfort, and dignity of the horses. Erica is also deeply involved in Draft Horse awareness and actively promotes their often-overlooked ability to excel as therapy horses. Her thoughtful, creative approach creates a safe, supportive environment where both people and horses can truly thrive.

Jennifer, parent to Maddy D.

Erica has a wonderful ability to read horses and facilitate communication between horses and humans. I have learned a great deal from her.

Janet V.

I had the pleasure of working alongside Ms. Morales during Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) sessions. In this setting, she played a vital and transformative role in supporting veterans who have experienced significant trauma.

Many of our veterans present with symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and long-standing relational challenges. One veteran in particular exhibits profound hypervigilance that typically prevents him from engaging in group activities or interacting comfortably with others. Ms. Morales demonstrated an exceptional ability to establish safety, trust, and rapport, allowing him to meaningfully participate in the program.

Another veteran utilizes humor to mask deeply rooted insecurities and severe anxiety. Ms. Morales was able to make a genuine and meaningful connection with him, meeting him with appropriate humor that broke down barriers and created a trusting therapeutic relationship. She worked with him diligently until he gained the skills necessary to successfully connect with, halter, and lead his chosen horse, skills he has since been able to generalize and apply to conquering real-life stressors.

Her ability to tailor her approach to each individual's emotional needs is truly remarkable. Ms. Morales possesses a rare and authentic gift that radiates through her presence. She connects with individuals in a way that cannot be taught, her empathy is genuine, her communication is grounded and gentle, and her emotional insight is extraordinary. Her observations and reflections after sessions demonstrated remarkable depth and intuitive understanding, enriching the therapeutic experience for both staff and veterans. She has an innate ability to read the emotional atmosphere of a group and respond in ways that promote healing, grounding, and emotional safety.

Veterans consistently spoke about how valued, seen, and respected they felt in her presence. Her contribution to our program was not only helpful, it was healing. She is the type of person who leaves a lasting positive impact on every life she touches.

Ashley E. Lee, M.Ed, LPCA Licensed Therapist, U.S. VETS Houston

Over the past several years, Erica has been an exceptional coworker, manager, and horsewoman. She brings extensive knowledge in horse training, riding, and instruction, along with a strong understanding of equine physical ability, behavior, health, and nutrition to keep horses happy, healthy, and sound. Erica is an engaging instructor who motivates her riders while maintaining the highest standards of care and professionalism. she is a great mentor with all the knowledge she has. Erica has been able to help me grow as an instructor myself and she has the patience, to help people succeed!

Katelyn E. Instructor in Training under Mentorship

Erica is a thoughtful instructor who puts real thought and effort into her sessions and lessons, harnessing the true power of equine therapy.

Travis C.
United States Marine Corps & Army Veteran, Eagle Scout

Erica has the education,  certifications and the experience that make her a great instructor. But the thing that really sets her apart from many of her peers is her ability to make therapy fun. Especially for kids.  Putting them at ease with her fun, caring, and creative spirit help her clients navigate the therapy process more effectively.

Craig A.