The importance of the human-animal bond cannot be overstated. For centuries, people have shared a deep and mutually beneficial relationship with animals rooted in companionship, trust, and understanding. Our center provides Animal Assisted Therapy in North West Indiana using canine co-therapists to make the treatment process more enjoyable and effective. Integrating dogs into our sessions creates a nurturing environment where you can experience healing, companionship, and personal growth.
Our animal-assisted therapy is a specialized treatment that utilizes interactions with dogs to improve people's physical, emotional, social, and cognitive functioning. There is a unique bond between humans and animals that facilitates healing and makes us joyful. Dr. Julie and Sadie use various therapy modalities to meet our patients' needs.
While many animal-assisted therapies involve horses (equine-assisted therapy) and dolphins (dolphin-assisted therapy), our center focuses exclusively on canines because they are the best at offering comfort, support, and companionship. Dogs are known for their loyalty, empathy, and ability to form strong bonds with humans, making them ideal co-therapists for various therapeutic interventions. Unlike service dogs, they work only in clinical settings, where they give you a lot of love and joy.
Animal-assisted therapy can benefit many individuals facing various challenges and conditions. Ideal candidates for our service include:
People experiencing psychological disorders, such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or autism, may benefit significantly from animal-assisted interventions. Interacting with dogs can provide emotional support, reduce agitation, and improve mood regulation.
Individuals dealing with chronic illnesses or undergoing stressful procedures can find comfort and distraction through our animal-assisted intervention. The presence of dogs can help to alleviate feelings of fear, pain, and isolation that are often associated with medical procedures.
Survivors of trauma or abuse may struggle with trust, intimacy, and emotional regulation. However, animal-assisted therapy offers a safe and supportive environment for processing feelings, rebuilding trust, and developing healthy relationships with other people.
Children with developmental issues, such as autism or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), can benefit from the structured interactions provided by animals involved in our therapy. They can improve their communication skills and sensory processing.
Here are the advantages of our pet therapy:
Reduced Blood Pressure and Pain Management Improved Motor Skills Stress Reduction Decreased Anxiety and Depression Higher Self-Esteem and Confidence Compassion and Empathy Enhanced Socialization and Communication Skills Cognitive and Behavioral Benefits
The treatment begins with an initial assessment conducted by our therapist and their canine partner. They will carefully analyze your needs, preferences, and suitability for animal-assisted therapy. Then, therapeutic goals will be identified to meet your needs.
You will meet your therapist and canine co-partner in a safe and regulated environment, allowing you to form a connection and build trust within the therapuetic environment. This phase is essential for fostering a positive relationship, which forms the foundation of your therapeutic journey.
The dog will be present with you during therapy sessions. It will relieve stress, improve mood, enhance socialization, and help us achieve specific objectives.
Throughout the therapy process, Dr. Julie will closely monitor and evaluate your progress. Adjustments to the therapy plan may be made as needed to ensure that our goals are met effectively.
Canine-assisted therapy will be seamlessly integrated into your broader treatment plan, complementing other services. The therapy dog's role will be carefully coordinated with different aspects of treatment, such as counseling, behavioral therapy, or physical rehabilitation.
After completing animal-assisted therapy, individuals can benefit from ongoing maintenance sessions to sustain progress. Follow-up assessments may be conducted periodically to evaluate long-term outcomes and address ongoing needs or challenges.
In North West Indiana, animal-assisted therapy costs typically range from $100 to $200 per session. However, the price can differ based on various factors, such as the type of treatment needed, session duration, and the specific facility or provider offering the services.
For a precise estimate of the cost of dog-assisted therapy, we recommend that you schedule a consultation at Animal Assisted Counseling in North West Indiana. During this consultation, you can discuss your requirements, inquire about pricing options, and obtain a holistic understanding of the financial aspects of receiving such services.
At Animal Assisted Counseling of North West Indiana, we offer a unique blend of personalized care, expertise, and evidence-based practices that make us the ideal destination for dog-assisted therapy in North West Indiana. Led by our experienced practitioners, Dr. Julie and Sadie, we are deeply committed to harnessing the profound bond between humans and animals to foster transformative therapeutic experiences.
