COUNSELING IN CHAMPAIGN, URBANA, MATTOON, AND TELEHEALTH ILLINOIS
ANIMAL-ASSISTED THERAPY
Animals are kind, innocent, and pure by nature. So it is no wonder why they make such great mental and physical health supporters. Mack, our beloved Brittany spaniel, is a trained therapy animal. He is ready and eager to give extra love and affection to clients. Animal-assisted therapy sessions help to overcome challenges and experience breakthroughs.
Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) is an approach where a trained therapy animal is incorporated into the therapy process.
In fact, the benefits of a therapy dog in session are deep, in length, and impact. As for mental health, it is proven to:
- Instantly relax and boost mood
- Provide comfort, safety, and security
- Reduce loneliness
- Increase mental stimulation and memory recall
- Reduce initial resistance to therapy
What are the benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy?
Sessions with an animal present lower stress and anxiety levels by up to 50%! But that’s not all– sessions with animals also positively affect physical realms of health, including:
- Lower blood pressure and stabilizing heart rate
- Create a normal breathing pattern
- Lessen chronic pain
- Increase language production and dialogue, especially those with Autism
- Increase the likeliness of future appointment attendance
Our Therapy Dog, Mack, can join sessions free of charge. He is ready to provide clients with unconditional affection and support.
Explore our therapists who specialize in assisted-animal therapy below. If you are interested in trying our Animal-Assisted Therapy services, reach out to our customer care team and they will help you get scheduled. We’re here to help.
