FOUNDER AND CLINICAL DIRECTOR

LPC, LISAC, MS, NCC, ACD

David Lavin is a multi-licensed psychotherapist in multiple states and has been working with troubled youth and adults for 17 years in a variety of settings. He began his career in Montana and Colorado, where he worked as a wilderness and equine therapist. David saw firsthand how horses can be vehicles for self-awareness, compassion, confidence, and interpersonal skills. Upon witnessing the transformational experiences horses can bring, he has focused his efforts on creating a place where people can learn, grow, and come together through horsemanship.

DIRECTOR OF FACILITIES

Roger is from Indiana and has dedicated his life to horses. As Ranch Director, he oversees all horse care, including nutritional needs, medical care, ensuring their overall health and wellbeing. When he is not working, Roger spends time with his horse Earl and dog Ranger.

RIDING INSTRUCTOR

Hazel grew up in Kansas City, Kansas and has been riding since age 10. She has been a part of the Heart of the Horse family for 2 years, where she teaches both Western and English riding. Hazel is also currently studying pharmacology at the University of Arizona and will graduate in 2027.

LEAD RIDING INSTRUCTOR

Eilena grew up around horses on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington state and has been at Heart of the Horse since 2023. She was a member of the United States Pony Club where she competed in English disciplines including dressage, show jumping, eventing, gaming, and gained a strong understanding of horse management and care. She was also a member of 4-H and High School Equestrian Team where she competed in both English and Western events. When she’s not working with horses she enjoys crafting, hikes, and going out to listen to local music.

EQUINE THERAPY SPECIALIST

With a generations-long cattle rancher for a father and an accomplished show-jumper for a mother, Tutti was born into an equestrian world, working with horses throughout her life in many different roles including working with to Olympians to helping horses in rehab. Realizing the need for mental health and wellness outside of traditional talk therapy, she became certificate as a PATH Intl. Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning, leaning in to help facilitate the human/horse connection. Tutti is proud to be a part to the Heart of the Horse family.

RIDING INSTRUCTOR

Makaela grew up around horses and first began riding in Tucson before moving to San Diego, where she learned both English and Western riding styles. In high school, she competed in reining and ranch riding with the Southern California Reining Horse Association and won the title of Ranch Riding Youth Champion in 2017 with her heart horse, Jose. She strongly believes in the therapeutic nature of relationships with horses, as many of the horses she has connected with over her life have helped her navigate and move past difficult times. Outside of petting horses, she enjoys music, painting, and collecting antique books."