‘Pawsitive’ Psychological Perks of Animal Assisted Therapy

Therapy is a deeply personal journey and for some people the process of opening up to another human can be daunting.

Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) is a powerful way to help to build a therapeutic environment and make therapy more engaging and comforting.

We cover the most common ways that AAT can help.

Regulate Emotions and Reduce Stress

The presence of a therapy dog can have an immediate calming effect. Research shows that interacting with dogs can lower cortisol levels, reduce blood pressure, and increase the production of oxytocin – the hormone responsible for bonding and emotional connection (Beetz et al., 2012). The calming act of patting a dog can help with emotion regulation, and reduce anxiety, depression, and stress.

Offer a Nonjudgmental Space

Many people can struggle with a fear of judgment or discomfort in discussing personal challenges with a health professional – but Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) offers an unconditional presence, warmth, and acceptance without conditions and expectations. Nonjudgmental companionship has been shown to help clients feel safe and help to foster more openness and honesty in their sessions (Fine, 2015).

Strengthen Social Connection

Therapy dogs can act as a bridge to better communication, particularly for people experiencing social anxiety, ASD, or difficulties with interpersonal relationships. Dogs have a natural ability to encourage social interaction and chatter that can ease tension in the therapy room. For children, adolescents, and individuals who struggle with verbal expression, a therapy dog can help them to communicate their feelings (Berry et al., 2013).

Encourage Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a key component of many therapeutic approaches. Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) helps people stay present by focusing on touch sensations, the rhythmic breathing of the dog, or the warmth of their presence. This mindfulness practice can be particularly helpful for individuals dealing with trauma, anxiety, or emotional dysregulation (O’Haire, 2017).

Increase Therapy Motivation

For any client who feels hesitant about therapy, the presence of an assistance dog can make therapy more appealing and foster positive thoughts about the experience (Friesen, 2010).

Support for Trauma Recovery

Trauma is associated with feelings of hyper-vigilance, mistrust, and emotional numbness. The gentle presence of a therapy dog can help rebuild trust and emotional connection. Dogs can bring comfort, reassurance, and a sense of safety, which are essential in trauma recovery (Geist, 2011).

Encourage Physical Activity and Play

For some therapeutic approaches, particularly those incorporating movement-based or play therapy, therapy dogs can serve as an interactive tool. Engaging in light physical activities such as walking, playing, or engaging in structured exercises with a therapy dog can help release tension, improve mood, and create a more dynamic therapy session (Nimer & Lundahl, 2007).

Final Thoughts

Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) can complement evidence-based therapy methods, helping to reduce stress, enhance communication, or foster a sense of security. In particular, a trained canine companion can be a powerful ally in the therapeutic process. Working with a psychologist with a therapy dog could provide the additional support and warmth you need on your mental health journey.

Lakeside Rooms

Did you know…

Leah Blakemore, Provisional Psychologist at Lakeside Rooms in Robina, and her registered Animal Assisted Therapy dog, Mia, are available for consultation. Leah focuses on providing a warm, non-judgmental, and empathic space to support clients, and caters to all ages and genders using a wide variety of evidence-based modalities. Contact us to find out more or book an appointment with Leah (and Mia!).

References

• Beetz, A., Uvnäs-Moberg, K., Julius, H., & Kotrschal, K. (2012). Psychosocial and psychophysiological effects of human-animal interactions: The possible role of oxytocin. Frontiers in Psychology, 3, 234.

• Berry, A., Borgi, M., Francia, N., Alleva, E., & Cirulli, F. (2013). Use of assistance and therapy dogs for children with autism spectrum disorders: A critical review of the current evidence. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 19(2), 73-80.

• Fine, A. H. (2015). Handbook on Animal-Assisted Therapy: Foundations and Guidelines for Animal-Assisted Interventions. Academic Press.

• Friesen, L. (2010). Exploring animal-assisted programs with children in school and therapeutic contexts. Early Childhood Education Journal, 37(4), 261-267.

• Geist, T. S. (2011). Conceptual framework for animal assisted therapy. Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal, 28(3), 243-256.

• Nimer, J., & Lundahl, B. (2007). Animal-assisted therapy: A meta-analysis. Anthrozoös, 20(3), 225-238.

• O’Haire, M. E. (2017). Animal-assisted intervention for autism spectrum disorder: A systematic literature review. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 43(7), 1606-1622.