Animal-assisted therapy provides a gentle, engaging, and evidence-informed approach to supporting emotional wellbeing—particularly for neurodivergent children and young people who may find traditional talk-based therapy challenging or overwhelming.
The presence of a trained therapy animal, such as a dog or cat, can help reduce anxiety, promote emotional regulation, and offer comfort during moments of distress. For many young people, connecting with an animal fosters a sense of safety, trust, and calm, creating a valuable foundation for therapeutic growth.
Therapy animals can support a wide range of goals, including:
- Enhancing communication and self-expression
- Supporting emotional regulation and resilience
- Encouraging social interaction and relationship-building
- Promoting sensory integration in a safe, non-judgemental environment
Our therapy animals—both dogs and cats—are carefully selected and trained to support this work, and their wellbeing is always prioritised.
How it works:
Animal-assisted therapy is integrated into broader psychosocial support and is always guided by the young person’s individual therapeutic goals. Sessions involving animals are purposefully planned and may take place in the clinic, home, or school setting.
To ensure suitability and safety for both the participant and the animal, all animal-assisted support begins with an in-clinic session. This initial meeting allows us to assess readiness, discuss preferences, and collaboratively develop a plan that meets everyone’s needs.
*Animal-assisted therapy is offered as an integrated part of broader support, not as a stand-alone service.