Institute of Canine Psychotherapy Instructors

Meet the I.C.P. team behind the Institute of Canine Psychotherapy. Our experts specialize in canine behavior, health, and human and animal welfare.


  • Billie Groom, Upward Dogology, Institute of Canine Psychotherapy

    Billie Groom

    CEO, CANINE PSYCHOTHERAPIST, CCBT DEVELOPER

    Billie Groom has dedicated over three decades to researching and developing a scientifically proven method for dogs over the age of six months to prevent abuse, neglect, surrender, and euthanasia due to behaviorally related reasons. Billie Groom is THE expert on Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CCBT), resulting in the development of the only evidence-based methodology adhering to the principles of CBT.

    Her dedication and the success of her method has positioned her as a leader in canine cognition and behavior, and an impactful force in the canine welfare realm. Billie has been featured on Roku TV and in Psychology Today Magazine by Marc Bekoff, and as a guest speaker at the Animal Science and Veterinarian Medicine Conference (‘21,’22,’23) and the Animal Behavior Society Conference (‘22,’23). Her many accolades. includes the 2024 Best Business Award, and early in her journey she was awarded by the Toronto Humane Society for her work with behaviorally challenged dogs.

    Billie’s extensive knowledge and experience is unmatched in the industry, and her course on CCBT reflects her dedication to canines and the people trying to help them. The decision to launch ICP comes at a time where the animal welfare industry is in desperate need of solutions and sustainable initiatives.

  • Dr. Alexandra Angelova

    NEUROSCIENTIST

    Alexandra (Lexi) is a trained neuroscientist with over a decade of experience in academic research and author of numerous scientific articles on topics like brain development, olfaction and memory formation. She is dedicated to making science accessible to a broad audience and empowering people to make informed decisions based on scientific understanding.

    Inspired by her own dogs, Lexi has extensively researched dog behavior and training, with a specific interest in methods that focus on strengthening the bond between humans and their dogs through respect, communication, and science-based knowledge. Therefore, CCBT immediately sparked her interest.

    Lexi’s courses can be taken individually, by everyone seeking in-depth knowledge of the canine brain, and are also required to complete the Canine Psychotherapy Diploma program (cost included in fee for diploma program).

  • Dr. Cristina Diaz-Madronero

    VETERINARY SURGEON, RCVS

    After 7 years in general practice, Cristina gained her ESVPS GP Certificate in Dermatology in 2011. She completed her Postgraduate certificate in small animal dermatology and has her RCVS Advance Practitioner Status. She is a member of the British Veterinary Dermatology Group and European Society of Veterinary Dermatology.

    Cristina published a book dedicated to new pet parents. She recently fostered an abandoned pitbull, and actively supports animal welfare. She lives with her husband (also a vet) and their three dogs in Liverpool.

    Cristina’s course, “Emergency Response Tactics” is a must have for anyone working hands on with dogs.

  • Dr. Razia Aziz-Seible

    BIOSCIENTIST

    Razia applies her extensive knowledge in the healthcare, educational, scientific, and human-centered fields to facilitate connections between visionaries and those with an authentic willingness to provide support.

    Her focus on initiatives that forge successful alliances between those in academia and in the business world — to move more ideas towards implementation and more results at the bench to the markets where we can better meet the needs of the public we serve. By encouraging collaborations between those with resources and the innovators in communities there will be greater entrepreneurship and economic empowerment that will not only improve economic but also social and health outcomes.

    Razia and her husband live in Omaha, Nebraska, with their pets. Razia is active in the rescue community, where she combines her skills and passion for animals, humans, and effective initiatives to create an impact.

    Razia’s course “The Science of Behavior" (biology and physics) explores multiple topics surrounding genes, hormones, cognition, emotions, and learning, referencing case studies and providing examples, making this course easy to follow, enjoyable, and a wealth of information.

  • Dr. Oluwaseun (Serah) Iyasere

    GLOBAL IMPACT EXPERT

    Dr. Oluwaseun (Serah) Iyasere, an Alexander von Humboldt Fellow, hails from Nigeria, leading to her impact in the Animal Welfare Group of Nigeria. Her extensive formal education and hands-on experience positions her as an expert in Human-Animal Relations, as well as a renowned author, keynote speaker, and a leader in Animal Behavior and Welfare.

    Dr. Oluwaseun lyasere's Human-Animal Relationship: Bridging the Gap course is ideal for those passionate about advancing the Human-Animal Connection both locally and globally. This course is designed for professionals, academics, volunteers, and entrepreneurs working in fields such as Animal Assisted Therapy, Animal Welfare, Social Work, and Psychology. It also caters to individuals looking to develop initiatives and strategies aimed at enhancing the economic, political, and social aspects of the One Health Approach, integrating human, animal, and environmental health for sustainable global impact.

  • Kat Atkings, Pure Purpose Prosperity Partners

    Kat Atkings

    BUSINESS & MARKETING SPECIALIST

    Kat Atkings combines a wealth of experience in strategic planning, campaign management, content creation, and performance analysis, spanning over a decade. What distinguishes Kat is not only her mastery of branding and business development but also her steadfast dedication to core values and cultivating enduring partnerships. With each endeavor, Kat sees beyond mere projects; she views them as avenues for meaningful impact, empowering businesses to flourish amidst today's competitive climate.

    As the business and marketing professional for ICP and many other successful businesses, Kat shares her expertise in two courses designed to provide professionals in the animal industry with the skills and tools to thrive.

Our highly qualified experts share their knowledge, expertise, and experience to provide a motivating, engaging, and successful learning experience. Our students acquire advanced skills that position them to excel professionally, implement impactful initiatives, and collaborate with industry experts.


I have never taken a course with such extensive, easy to learn, and applicable content. The combination of hands-on experience and industry expertise makes the course heads above standard dog training certification courses.
— Harrison O’Neill, I.C.P. Student.