Accredited Mentalh Health Social Worker Heidi Winchester has recently trained in Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) and works with her ‘furry co-therapist’ Lexi at Bellarine Peninsula Psychology. Lexi and Heidi are still completing their AAT accreditation and needs lots of practice with some humans as Lexi develops.
Therapy dogs can help children feel at ease and build rapport more quickly with their therapist, reduce stress in the counselling setting and distract from any discomfort that may be experienced when sitting more ‘formally’ in a therapy room.
Many people enjoy interacting with Lexi, but it’s not just about cuddles and fun! Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) is goal directed approach where animals are an important part of therapy, facilitated by a mental health professional.
The process of bonding with dogs (touching, patting, giving and receiving affection) can reduce stress chemicals, facilitate mindfulness practice (dogs are so ‘in the moment’ and when we are connecting with them, we are too!) reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms, and help regulate emotions, especially when children are talking about difficult life events and emotions.
Please feel free to contact us to find out more about how we provide Animal Assisted Therapy and Animal Assisted Activities at Bellarine Psychology!