Animal Assisted Psychotherapy

Friesen (2010) states “animals provide a social and emotional support…seem non-judgemental to the child [and] is perceived as comforting, raises the child’s self esteem and makes it easier for the child to express themselves”. Animals facilitate social, emotional and behavioural changes, develop and increase confidence and motivation, “raise awareness of emotions and ways of expression, reduce passivity” (Lefkowitz et al, 2005) “close physical contact, observing breathing and feel heartbeats, having hugs and cuddles” decrease stress and anxiety and promote healing and well-being.

The first meeting between dog and person is often significant, facilitating a bond to develop more quickly between therapist and client. Thereafter the bond that may develop from that initial interaction can enhance a client’s ability to develop relationships with others.

When a young person becomes aware of the needs of an animal such as water, food, the need to relieve themselves, the importance of play and exercise for physical and mental well being, all of these factors assist in their learning about themselves. Being able to gives commands such as sit, down, stay or come creates a sense of ones power and ability to impact another and their behaviour. Building an obstacle course of jumps or tunnels for fun is a powerful way to develop and increase a young person’s confidence, that they can effect change and interact with another with a sense of purpose and achievement. When a dog is used in conjunction with psychotherapy it creates an awareness of safety of oneself and the dog which can significantly change a person’s awareness and perception of risk and safety. This will enable the young person to make safer choices in an autonomous way.

Furthermore, studies of the human-companion animal bond reveal many physiological and psychological benefits. “Petting a dog with which one is bonded to promotes relaxation, characterized by decreased blood pressure and increases in peripheral skin temperature” (Velde et al, 2005). Other benefits include releasing stress, increased calmness, improved patient outlook, reduced fear and anxiety.

Bibliography

Friesen, L (2010). "Exploring Animal-Assisted Programs with Children in School and Therapeutic Contexts". Early Childhood Education Journal 37 (4): 261–267.

Lefkowitz, C.; Paharia, I.; Prout, M.; Debiak, D.; Bleiberg, J. (2005). "Animal assisted prolonged exposure: A treatment for survivors of sexual assault suffering posttraumatic stress disorder". Society Animals: Journal of Human-Animal Studies 13: 275–295.

Velde, B. P.; Cipriani, J.; Fisher, G. (2005). "Resident and therapist views of animal-assisted therapy: Implications for occupational therapy practice". Australian Occupational Therapy Journal 52 (1): 43–50.