Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) can be a valuable addition to counselling, offering unique benefits that enhance the therapeutic process for clients. Here are some key ways AAT, including working with a therapy dog like Ember, can benefit clients in counselling:

 

    1.    Reduced Anxiety and Stress: Interaction with animals has been shown to reduce cortisol levels and promote relaxation, making clients feel more at ease. This calming effect can be particularly helpful for clients who experience anxiety, allowing them to open up and engage more deeply in therapy sessions.

    2.    Increased Trust and Rapport: For many clients, especially those with trust issues, an animal in the therapy room can create a sense of safety and warmth. The presence of a therapy animal can make the environment feel less clinical, fostering a quicker development of rapport between the client and counsellor.

    3.    Enhanced Communication and Emotional Expression: Animals can act as social catalysts, encouraging clients to express emotions that might be difficult to articulate. Clients, especially children or individuals who are hesitant to speak, may find it easier to connect with an animal, facilitating emotional breakthroughs and self-reflection.

    4.    Improved Mood and Positive Emotions: Interaction with animals is often associated with the release of dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, which can elevate mood and improve the overall emotional climate of a session. This can be especially beneficial for clients experiencing depression, as the presence of a therapy animal can boost positive feelings.

    5.    Increased Motivation and Engagement: Therapy animals can make sessions more engaging and dynamic. For clients who struggle with motivation, especially children or those with ADHD, the novelty of an animal-assisted approach may encourage them to participate more actively in sessions.

    6.    Enhanced Social Skills and Empathy: Working with a therapy animal can help clients practice social skills and develop empathy. This is particularly beneficial for clients who struggle with social interactions, as animals can serve as non-judgmental partners with whom they can practice communication and behavioral skills.

    7.    Mindfulness and Grounding: The presence of an animal can help clients stay grounded in the present moment, providing a natural mindfulness practice. Focusing on an animal’s calm presence can anchor clients, helping those with trauma or PTSD manage symptoms like dissociation.

    8.    Encouragement for Physical Activity: For some clients, especially those dealing with depression or PTSD, moving and interacting with a therapy dog can provide an added benefit of light physical activity, promoting a more holistic approach to well-being.

 

Animal-assisted therapy brings warmth, connection, and engagement, making the therapeutic journey more accessible and enriching for clients across different backgrounds and therapeutic needs.