animal assisted therapy

What is animal assisted therapy?

Therapy with animals is just what it sounds like- bringing a therapy dog into the space to support clients in their therapy journey. Our therapy dogs are Bowser, Noodle, and Leela. They join sessions with their handlers, Kelsey or Katie, and are an active part of the therapy session.

How does it work?

Animals have a natural ability to connect to humans and are constantly resonating with our emotional state. They provide a calm, genuine, accepting environment that allows for healing from emotional and physical pain. Dogs are unconditionally accepting of people and provide a level of support that differs from humans.

Research shows that being around animals helps reduce cortisol levels (stress hormones) and increase oxytocin (feel good hormones) in the body! Research has also found even just thinking about an animal can increase levels of oxytocin in the body and decrease stress. Working with dogs in therapy is a unique experience that allows clients to practice connection and boundaries in a safe/supportive relationship.

What are possible benefits of animal assisted therapy?

• Improvement in well-being

• Increased attention skills (i.e., paying attention, staying on task)

• Increased self-esteem

• Reduction in anxiety

• Reduction in feelings of loneliness

• Increased motivation

• Improved interactions with others

• Improved willingness to be involved in a group activity