- Creating a Positive and Welcoming Environment: The presence of a therapy dog can transform the therapy environment, making it feel more welcoming and less clinical. The counseling room can be an intimidating environment, especially for children. I love watching the apprehension of clients melt away when they see Teddy’s friendly face and wagging tail. Almost instantly children and adults are more at ease, allowing for more productive and meaningful sessions.
- Emotional Support and Comfort: Another immediate benefit of a therapy dog is their ability to provide unconditional love and companionship. Teddy has a natural way of connecting with others and providing a sense of comfort in a way that can help alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety. Teddy is comfortable laying on the couch while a client talks and pets him. The simple act of petting a dog can release endorphins, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
- Co-regulation: Perhaps the biggest impact of therapy dogs is co-regulation. Co-regulation is the process in which two beings (in this case the client and therapy dog) mutually regulate each other’s emotional and physiological states. The presence of a therapy dog can help clients feel more grounded, reduce nervous system arousal, and promote a sense of safety. This mutual regulation can create a positive feedback loop, enhancing the therapeutic experience. From the counselor’s chair, I’m always in awe when I see co-regulation happen with Teddy and a client. Most of the time, it happens without knowing. It’s beautiful and amazing.
- Encouraging Engagement and Social Interaction: For individuals struggling with certain anxieties, delays, or PTSD, therapy dogs can act as a bridge to social interaction. Their friendly and non-judgmental nature encourages client to engage more freely in therapy sessions. Often times with Teddy, he provides a common ground for us to bond over and begin a dialogue. Teddy also takes the stress off of having to connect immediately and allows us time to warm up. One thing I’ve noticed is the client gains confidence in the session by feeling positive with their interactions with Teddy, and that carries quickly over to therapeutic conversations.
