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Animal Assisted Therapy is: In Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT), the therapist incorporates
a gentle, well-trained pet into the therapeutic process. Clients
respond to the comfort, affection, and unconditional acceptance
the animal offers. The initial stress of therapy is reduced.
This helps the client to relax, form a trusting relationship
with the therapist, and feel motivated to work on his or her
issues. Coco and Rufus are Therapy Dogs registered with Therapy Dogs,
Inc. and have their AKC Canine Good Citizenship certifications.
AAT is a counseling specialty that has gained widespread acceptance as a positive and effective therapeutic approach, particularly with children. The results of research studies have been reported in a variety of publications including Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, Journal of Family Social Work, and Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services. |