ANIMAL-ASSISTED THERAPY
At Broulee Psychology, we are excited to offer Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) as a way to complement traditional therapy sessions. This approach uses specially trained therapy animals to support emotional, social, and psychological wellbeing. Working alongside a psychologist, the presence of a therapy animal can create a calming, engaging, and supportive environment that enhances the therapeutic experience.
How Animal-Assisted Therapy Works
Animal-Assisted Therapy is integrated into sessions to help clients feel more relaxed, supported, and open during therapy. The therapy animal serves as a source of comfort, motivation, and non-judgmental presence, which can help reduce anxiety, build trust, and facilitate emotional expression.
BENEFITS OF ANIMAL-ASSISTED THERAPY
There are many benefits to animal assisted therapy to treat psychological difficulties, including:
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Help to improve motivation and engagement in therapy
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Animals provide a sense of security and emotional support
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Animals can promote relaxation
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Animals can aid in focus and attention
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Animals can support learning, self-confidence and self-esteem
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Animals can offer humour and fun due to playful natures
Who Can Benefit?
Animal-Assisted Therapy can complement therapy for:
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Children and adolescents who may feel nervous or hesitant in traditional therapy settings
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Adults experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress
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Individuals seeking support for social or emotional challenges
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Those who benefit from experiential and hands-on therapeutic approaches
During sessions, the animal may be involved in:
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Encouraging engagement and participation
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Supporting relaxation and stress reduction
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Building confidence and social skills
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Providing a calming presence during difficult discussions
Complementing Your Therapy Journey
Animal-Assisted Therapy is not a standalone treatment but is used alongside evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), play therapy, or supportive counselling. By incorporating the therapy animal into sessions, clients often experience:
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Greater comfort and engagement in therapy
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Increased motivation to participate in therapeutic exercises
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Enhanced emotional regulation and coping strategies
Meet our Therapy Dogs
IS ANIMAL-ASSISTED
THERAPY RIGHT FOR ME?
People who are fearful or allergic to dogs are not a good candidate for this treatment method. If this is the case for you, please make sure to let our team know so that they can ensure that our dogs in the office do not interact with you.
Not all clients will be recommended for this therapeutic approach. Although animal assisted therapy has many benefits, it is not available with all psychologists at Broulee Psychology. If you are particularly keen to engage in this therapy, please let one of our team know so that they can assess your suitability.
LOOKING FOR A PSYCHOLOGIST FOR ANIMAL THERAPY?
Broulee Psychology provides psychological support for adults, children, adolescents and couples on the far south coast of NSW and beyond, with animal assisted therapy available for suitable clients.
If you are interested in being involved in animal assisted therapy during your treatment at Broulee Psychology, please have a chat about whether this treatment would be appropriate for you.