What does a therapy dog do?
A therapy dog is trained to engage with humans in a therapeutic setting. He has certain skills that elevate him from an emotional support animal to a key therapeutic participant. He participates in sessions through Canine Assisted Interventions (CAI), and Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT).
Bentley will only participate if your counselor and you agree. However, it is important to note that he is present at all in-person sessions unless prior arrangements have been made.
What does a therapy dog NOT do?
- A therapy dog must always be under the direction of the counselor. Bentley cannot go with you for a walk or visit you at your home.
- Guarantee he will interact with you.
- Bentley has freedom of choice when it comes to interacting others. (So far, this has not been an issue—he loves everyone, so long as you don’t have a swishy tail and screech at him from a tree.)
- However, your counselor will NOT force Bentley to interact with you.
- Lick your face! We have a strict boundary around face licking. He’s disappointed but understands.
Bentley cannot solve your problems. However, he can help with things such as:
- Exploring and increasing self-esteem
- Giving you support through an emotional session.
- Exploring Trust.
- Demonstrate differences in emotional regulation.
- Identify and explore the benefits of goal setting by example.
- Produce oxytocin—the stress relieving hormone—by letting you give him belly rubs and pets.
Ready to meet Bentley and Daniel? Reach out via the contact form to schedule your appointment.
