Animal-assisted therapy uses animals, and dogs in particular, to improve cognitive and emotional functioning. Animals help to build a report between the therapist and the patient, and can include domesticated pets and farm animals.

During the first stages of animal-assisted therapy, the therapist will assess the client's needs without animals present. The animal is only introduced once the therapist has developed a treatment plan.

The next stage involves a bond being developed between the client and the animal through motor skills. The animals are used to motivate the client, and to create positive interactions that can be translated into human interaction.

The therapist will monitor improvement and once a positive interaction is established between the client and the animal, the client is given independence in making choices for their partner in Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) therapy.

If you are looking for a counsellor who offers Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) therapy, please browse our list of practitioners below..

Walk and Talk therapy takes your counselling session outside.  Some clients feel that it is difficult for them to talk, think or feel, while sitting still. They need to move their bodies and feel that talking comes easier while walking. Others find it too intense to be so closely looked at or find it hard making eye contact. Most clients  already have a love for nature or enjoy walking outside, and are able to make deeper connections in that setting.

If you are looking for a therapist who offers Walk and Talk Therapy, please browse our list of practitioners below..