Animal Advocacy and Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT)
Our practice supports the prevention of cruelty to animals and the use of animal-assisted therapy as part of my clinical work. We are a member of the Humane League, SPCA and support the work of Guide Dogs for the blind and other similar organizations.
What is AAT?
Animal-assisted therapy is the utilization of animals as a therapeutic modality to facilitate healing and rehabilitation of patients with mental illness and acute or chronic diseases. People of any age can see benefits from interacting with animals in a psychotherapy setting. AAT can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are resistant to treatment or have difficulty accessing their emotions or expressing themselves in talk therapy.
Animal-assisted therapy can significantly reduce pain, anxiety, depression and assist with other psychological, emotional and medical conditions.
It can also benefit by:
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Increasing focus and attention
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Reducing blood pressure
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Increasing social skills
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Increasing trust and empathy
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Enhancing problem solving skills
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Increasing self esteem
Who it Helps
AAT is a good fit for children, those with anxiety and depression, patients with coping issues, and patients who have a hard time expressing emotions.
How it Works
During therapy you will be accompanied by a certified and registered ADA (Assistance Dogs of America) Dog. You can pet and interact with them during your therapy session.
What's in It for You
Animal have healing powers, their presence has been shown to calm, heal, and allow those who might not have been able to open up before find peace and freedom in their therapy sessions.
Meet Aspen
Aspen, the newest member of the Path to Peace team and a future therapy dog in training!
Aspen is a gentle and intuitive husky mix who is learning to support clients through calm companionship and steady presence.
The name Aspen carries a soft, snowy feel, paying tribute to her husky heritage and evoking a sense of quiet, grounding calm.
Her name also represents aspen trees, which are known for their deep, interconnected root systems- an important symbol in mental health that reflects resilience, connection, and the strength we gain through support. Aspen trees are also often among the first to grow after events like fires, reminding us that healing, growth, and new beginnings are possible even after hardship.
Aspen works alongside Ms. Kristen in the Nurtured Nook, where she is gradually building her skills in a therapeutic setting. While she won’t be in the office every day, we look forward to the days she is here and to watching her continue to grow into her role.
*Please let us know if you have any health conditions that might affect or complicate an experience with animal-assisted psychotherapy.