Animal-assisted Therapy
Animal-assisted therapy is a therapeutic approach that incorporates the use of animals into the therapeutic process. This form of therapy has been found to be highly effective in helping individuals improve their mental and emotional well-being, as well as promoting physical health and rehabilitation.
In animal-assisted therapy, a trained animal, typically a dog or horse, is used as a tool to facilitate therapeutic goals. The animal provides emotional support, comfort, and a non-judgmental presence, helping to create a safe and supportive environment for therapy.
Animal-assisted therapy can be used to treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD. And finally, although we do not provide services for these conditions at our practice, animal-assisted therapy can also be beneficial for individuals with physical disabilities, such as those recovering from a stroke or injury, as well as individuals with developmental disorders, such as autism.
The benefits of animal-assisted therapy are numerous. The presence of an animal can help individuals feel relaxed and comfortable, promoting greater openness and trust in the therapeutic relationship. The animal can also help to break down social barriers, improving communication and relationships. Additionally, the physical and emotional connection that individuals can form with the animal can lead to improved self-esteem, emotional regulation, and reduced stress levels.
If you are interested in exploring animal-assisted therapy, you can work with our trained and licensed mental health professionals who have experience in this modality. With the right support, animal-assisted therapy can be a highly effective tool for promoting healing and personal growth.
Max, collie/poodle mix
Cary, black lab mix