"Animals can inspire us to be less busy, more present, less worried, more joyful, and more passionate about life. They will never judge us for the things we do or don't do."
- Kristen Moeller

About Animal Assisted Therapy

Many people ask what exactly is Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) so let me explain that here; we are not providing therapy to the animal rather the animal is assisting in a persons therapeutic session. AAT is a counselling modality that incorporates an animal as a co-therapist. This therapeutic setting now provides you with two therapists. AAT co-therapists can be many different types of animals however the most common are dogs, horses, goats, cats and rabbits. Each animal species has its own innate therapeutic abilities to offer. 

Many people are familiar with animals being taken into hospitals, long term care homes, schools etc. The animals involved in these processes are completing Animal Assisted Activities (AAA) which also has an enormous benefit to those receiving this service, however do not require the animal handler to be a Certified Animal-Assisted Interventionist.

As a Certified Animal Assisted Interventionist I have received the training and have gained experience to fully incorporate this modality into the counselling practice. Each program created will have a targeted treatment plan and goals in accordance with the AAT principles and ethics.  

AAT creates a very unique therapeutic opportunity where you will be able to engage in an experiential (hands on learning) environment which will promote increased well being. AAT sessions provide a multi-sensory experience which encourages the ability to focus on being present and increased recall.

Animal Assisted Therapy has become increasingly popular within the therapeutic setting over the past decade. This is due to the overwhelming success individuals are having after engaging in targeted treatment plans that involve animals. We all have a unique and special relationship with animals so let’s allow them to help us through our journey.