Animal Assisted Therapy
Animal Assisted Therapy is a goal-directed therapeutic approach that integrates trained animals into the counselling process to support emotional connection, engagement and wellbeing. At Step Ahead Psychology, this supportive modality enhances the therapeutic experience in a safe, structured and evidence-based environment.
Therapy supported by comfort, connection and trust.
Integrate Animals into Therapy to Support Emotional Wellbeing
Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) is a goal-directed intervention in which an animal that meets specific criteria plays an integral role in the treatment process. AAT is designed to promote improvement in human physical, social, emotional and cognitive function.
NSW South Coast and Central West Psychologists
A Supportive and Engaging Therapeutic Experience
Animals, particularly dogs, are being incorporated into many health settings including psychology, counselling, occupational therapy and physiotherapy and school classrooms. This approach can be particularly beneficial for children, adolescents and clients who may find traditional talk therapy confronting.
By strengthening rapport between client and therapist, Animal Assisted Therapy helps create a supportive foundation for therapeutic progress.
Did You Know?
Research into the positive impact of the human-animal bond has grown significantly, showing meaningful benefits for people of all ages. Animals are naturally non-judgemental and offer unconditional companionship, helping strengthen trust and rapport between therapist and client. Incorporating animals into therapy can reduce anxiety, increase relaxation, encourage social interaction and communication, and motivate clients to engage more comfortably in the therapeutic process.
Animal Assisted Therapy is particularly effective in supporting the development of social and communication skills, using an animal’s body language to provide gentle, real-time feedback around behaviour, emotions and comfort levels. It can also support attachment and relational work, while helping regulate arousal levels when processing trauma-related experiences.
Supporting Therapy With Tully
Our clinic dog Tully is currently working towards accreditation as a registered therapy dog and is looking forward to supporting clients in sessions very soon. If you are interested in Animal Assisted Therapy, we welcome you to contact our team to learn more or join our waitlist. This service will be available under Medicare, NDIS and private fee arrangements, ensuring flexible access to support.
For further information about AAT, see:
