A New Era in Wellness: Rhodes Wellness College Launches PAAW Diploma
Rhodes Wellness College has led experiential wellness education for 30 years. Now, we are proud to announce the new Professional Animal-Assisted Wellness (PAAW) Therapy Diploma.
We developed this program with equine expert Carla Webb. The first 52-week intake begins in July 2026. This is the only program of its depth in British Columbia. We are bridging a vital gap in modern mental health training.
The Power of the PAAW Partnership
The PAAW program blends ethology, human psychology, and trauma-informed care. It prepares graduates for a rapidly growing field. This program follows four years of research between the college and Carla Webb, BA, Pro-EFW.
Webb is a former Vancouver Police officer. She found her own healing through animal partnership. Today, she owns Anam Cara Farm and Empowered By Horses and Friends. She brings her deep expertise to every aspect of the curriculum.
A Focus on Emotional Safety and Resiliency
“At the heart of this program is a deep respect for every being,” says Webb. This includes the client, the animal, and the facilitator. We train practitioners to lead a three-way partnership. This bond fosters emotional safety and builds resiliency through the authentic presence of animals.
Experiential Learning and Curriculum Structure
The PAAW program uses a 1,286-hour experiential model. This ensures students turn knowledge into lived experience. The diploma includes several key features:
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Life Coaching Foundation: The first semester features ICF-approved training. This builds a strong human-to-human connection.
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Blended Learning Format: Most courses are delivered live and online. This makes the program accessible across Canada.
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Practical Experience: Students complete an 80-hour practicum to prove their professional skills.
Immersive Residency and On-Site Training
The program includes a two-week, full-time residency. During this time, students join immersive, in-person classes. Two weeks of online prep-work occur before the residency begins.
Students learn at a dedicated facility. They work in a safe environment alongside professional therapy animals.
Meeting the Demand for Animal-Assisted Therapy
Research shows that veterans and youth often prefer animal-assisted modalities. These methods can be more comforting than traditional talk therapy for those with PTSD. Even corporations like Microsoft and Disney now use animal-assisted learning for leadership growth.
Graduates will be ready for many career paths. You can start a private practice or join a wellness organization. You may also consult in educational or animal welfare settings.
About Rhodes Wellness College
Established in 1996, Rhodes Wellness College is a premier provider of professional education. We offer programs in counselling, coaching, massage therapy, and nutrition. For three decades, we have built compassionate communities through transformational learning.
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