​Veteran. Comedian. Speaker. Healer. Author. Advocate.

Vernard T. Hines — affectionately known as “The Laugh Therapist”  has made a lasting impact  by bringing his unique form of laugh therapy to audiences across the country. From veteran organizations and military bases, to comedy clubs, faith communities, and mental health events, Vernard uses clean, high-energy, truth-infused comedy to entertain, connect, and bring healing to those who need it most.

 

A Life of Service Turned Into a Mission of Healing

A retired U.S. Army Sergeant First Class, Vernard served over 20 years in the military, including two combat tours in Iraq. His time in service was filled with dedication and courage but like many veterans, he returned home with invisible wounds. PTSD became a reality he couldn’t ignore. And yet, even in the darkest moments, Vernard found light in an unexpected place: laughter.

Through therapy, faith, and the support of his wife, Latricia “Trish” Hines and family, Vernard realized that humor wasn’t just a coping mechanism  it was a tool for survival and transformation. Laughter, he discovered, could break tension, open hearts, and start real conversations about mental health.

 

The Laugh Therapist is Born

From those painful places came a new purpose. Vernard began performing comedy with a mission addressing serious topics like PTSD, trauma, faith, and recovery with honesty and heart. His performances create safe spaces where people can laugh at the mess, learn from the pain, and leave just a little bit lighter than they came in.

He often says:

“I’m not licensed; I’m just medicated.”

But make no mistake  his work is healing. His secret weapon? A mix of stand-up, storytelling, testimony, and soul work. A style he calls Laugh Therapy.

 

More Than a Comedian

In addition to his live shows, Vernard is a:

• 📘 Published Author of Laughing in the Dark; Healing in the Light: A Veteran’s Journey from PTSD to Purpose through the Power of Laughter

• 🎙️ Host of the podcast P.T.S.D.  Processing Traumatic Situations Differently, which has become a refuge for veterans and civilians alike who are navigating trauma and healing

• 🧠 Certified Peer Recovery Specialist with the State of Virginia

• 🤝 Advocate with USAA’s We Face The Fight Against Veteran Suicide campaign

He’s been featured by the Department of Veterans Affairs, CNN, the NFL, Military Influencer Conference, USAA, and numerous veterans' organizations nationwide.

 

A Mission That’s Bigger Than Him

Vernard doesn’t do this alone. He proudly supports and co-leads with his wife Trish, founder of United On Purpose — a faith-based relationship coaching and blended family support business. As his “Partner in Recovery”, Trish walks with him personally and professionally as they share their story of faith, marriage, healing, and purpose. Together, they are raising a blended family of five children, three beautiful grandchildren, and two spoiled dogs.

 

Why Vernard Does What He Does

Because he knows what it feels like to carry the pain silently.
Because too many veterans and everyday people are suffering in silence.
Because humor can reach people where traditional approaches might can’t.

And most of all because he knows firsthand that God can turn trauma into testimony.

"Laughter is a gift from God and I’m just here to pass it around."
Vernard “The Laugh Therapist” Hines

 

Ready to Book Vernard?

Bring hope, healing, and humor to your next event. Whether it’s a comedy night, mental health summit, church service, retreat, veteran program, or marriage conference Vernard brings truth wrapped in laughter.

🎤 Book The Laugh Therapist
📘 Order the Book
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast