In these sessions- evidence-based therapy targets the presenting issues and animals may be present during the sessions.

 

Why work with animals?

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There have been many benefits found when working with animals to assist therapy:

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• Positive physiological effects (e.g. decrease heart rate and blood pressure)

• Feelings of acceptance and help in rapport building

• Opportunities for empathy and nurturing

• Increased motivation.

 

In the Mental Health field benefits including increased attention skills, reduced anxiety and reduced loneliness have been cited.

 

Several studies also suggest that the presence of a dog reduces aggression and agitation, as well as promoting social behavior in people.

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At AJ Psychology and Winhaven Animal Assisted Therapy we have a variety of co-facilitators; Elly (certified therapy dog), horses, camels, and rabbits.

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What skills do we most commonly work on at Winhaven

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We will work with our clients to develop individual goals and a treatment plan for their therapy sessions.  Below is a list of common goals for our work at Winhaven:

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• Interoception awareness (to notice, recognise, and respond to our internal sensory system, both the physical and emotional states – key to helping regulate ourselves)

• External awareness (essential in keeping us safe)

• Co-regulation strategies

• Self-regulation (emotions, sensations, and thoughts)

• Problem solving strategies

• Relationship skills

• Social skills

• Communication skills

• Setting boundaries

• Assertiveness

• Conflict resolution

• Negotiation skills

• Impulse control

• Psychoeducation and treatment for mental health conditions

• Parent-child relationships

• Parenting support

• Grief and loss strategies

 

What therapeutic models underpin the animal assisted therapy work at Winhaven

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At Winhaven we utilise several therapeutic models to inform our work:

• Person Centered Therapy

• Social Thinking Methodology

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

• Behavioural Therapy

• Gestalt Therapy

• Solution Focused Therapy

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

• Family Systems Therapy

 

These therapeutic models are explored through explicit teaching of knowledge and skills (psychoeducation & skills training) and in the moment (experiential learning) working with animals who provide a safe environment and relationship to practice these skills. The therapist can role model helpful ways of engagement and coping and animals provide immediate feedback to the client.

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If you would like to read more about psychological animal assisted therapy please click

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You can find out more about the herd