About Therapeutic Presence of Animals

Therapeutic presence of animals, often called animal-assisted therapy, involves incorporating trained animals into counselling sessions to support emotional wellbeing. The animal's presence may help create a calming atmosphere, reduce feelings of anxiety, and provide comfort during difficult conversations. This approach is facilitated by a qualified therapist who guides the session while the animal serves as a supportive presence.

Dogs are the most commonly used animals in therapeutic settings due to their trainability and natural ability to connect with humans. However, some practitioners may work with horses (equine-assisted therapy), cats, rabbits, or other animals depending on their training and the therapeutic goals. Each animal brings unique qualities that may resonate differently with individuals seeking support.

Many people find animal-assisted therapy helpful, including those experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or social difficulties. Children and adolescents often respond well to this approach, as do individuals who feel more comfortable with animals than in traditional therapy settings. People working through stress, loneliness, or emotional regulation challenges may also find comfort in the presence of a therapy animal.

Research on animal-assisted therapy continues to grow, with studies suggesting positive outcomes for various concerns including anxiety reduction, improved mood, and enhanced social engagement. While more research is ongoing, many mental health professionals recognize the potential benefits of incorporating animals into therapeutic work, particularly as a complement to other evidence-based approaches.

Sessions typically involve standard therapeutic conversation and techniques, with the added presence of a trained animal. You might pet, play with, or simply sit near the animal while discussing your concerns with the therapist. The animal's role varies based on your needs and comfort level—some people find simply having an animal nearby helps them feel more relaxed and open to the therapeutic process.

First Session's growing network includes therapists across Canada who incorporate various approaches into their practice. You can browse therapist profiles and watch intro videos to learn about their methods and specialties. If animal-assisted therapy isn't available in your area, you might explore related approaches such as nature-based therapy or somatic practices that also emphasize connection and grounding.