Animal-Assisted Counseling
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Animal-Assisted Counseling?
Animal-assisted counseling (AAC) is a goal-directed therapeutic approach that incorporates a trained animal into sessions to support emotional regulation, connection, and healing. Ruth and I work as a team to provide an emotionally safe and responsive environment where clients can explore difficult topics, build self-awareness, and move toward growth. Our work together supports individuals in developing insight, practicing vulnerability, and engaging in experiential healing.
What are some potential benefits of AAC?
Animal-assisted counseling can be especially helpful for clients who benefit from grounding, tactile regulation, and a sense of connection during therapy. Research and clinical experience have shown AAC may help with:
- Decreasing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation
- Increasing engagement, motivation, and a sense of safety in the therapeutic space
- Enhancing communication, social interaction, and relational skills
- Supporting emotional resilience and nervous system regulation
Clients often feel more open and comforted in the presence of an animal partner, allowing for deeper therapeutic work.
What is Ruth like?
Ruth is a 3-year-old Goldendoodle who serves as both a psychiatric service dog and therapy dog. She is smart, steady, and incredibly nurturing. Ruth has been intentionally trained to provide deep pressure therapy, stay attuned to emotional cues, and maintain calm in higher-acuity settings. She adores people, knows how to be playful and serious, and will often lean in gently when someone needs extra grounding. Ruth’s presence is calming, joyful, and full of personality—she loves greeting clients, curling up nearby, or walking alongside you on community outings.
Will Ruth always be at my session?
Ruth joins me for many sessions, but her participation is guided by what is best for each client and for Ruth’s well-being. If animal-assisted counseling is not the right fit, or if Ruth needs a rest day, we will continue our work together without her. You’ll always be informed ahead of time about her availability.
What about allergies, wellness, and hygiene?
Before beginning treatment, we’ll talk through any allergies, fears, or past trauma involving animals to ensure a good fit. Clients are asked to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer before and after interacting with Ruth. While she is fully vaccinated, groomed regularly, and receives routine veterinary care, there is always a small risk of zoönoses (illnesses that can spread between animals and humans), and hygiene protocols help minimize that risk.
Ruth is a low-shedding dog, but she may leave a little fluff behind—lint rollers are always available if needed!
