This is Billy, he is a puppy cockapoo who will be a helping hand for clients who feel having a therapy dog in the room may help at times. Billy Is still working hard to practice being calm so he can support clients when he is ready.
Counselling can be greatly enhanced with pet therapy dogs within the counselling room and can aid the client’s ability to communicate and increase in social interaction.
Animals are known to improve the therapist-client relationship by encouraging a strong social and emotional connection. The unconditional love and warmth of a therapy dog can help clients feel relaxed and accepted, which makes them more willing to open up to therapists.
Animal-assisted therapy can improve the emotional wellbeing of clients who suffer from illnesses such as anxiety and depression or clients who struggle on a 1-1 with eye contact by helping the client to relax.
Including the use of animals in therapeutic activities for clients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has proven to decrease stress, behavioural problems and aid connection within the therapy room.
I am currently completing an Animal Assisted Therapy Course to gain a Level 3 CPD Award.