Mental Health Monday: Animal Assisted Counseling of Indiana
Starting Therapy in Indiana—What You Should Know
Let’s be honest: deciding to begin therapy is a big deal. It can feel empowering… and also a little scary. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s time to talk to someone, you’re not alone.
At Animal Assisted Counseling of Indiana (AACI), we meet people at all different points on their mental health journey. Some are facing big life transitions. Others feel stuck in old patterns. Many are just trying to keep it together. And they’re all asking the same quiet question:
“Is it time for therapy?”
Here’s the thing—if that question keeps coming up, it might already be your answer.
Signs It Might Be Time to Start Therapy
Here are a few common signs that therapy could be helpful:
You’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or down more days than not
You’re withdrawing from people, activities, or responsibilities
Your sleep, appetite, or energy levels are noticeably off
You’re struggling to manage stress, conflict, or emotions
You’re dealing with loss, trauma, or a big life change
You just feel… stuck—and you’re not sure what to do next
Mayo Clinic explains that recurring changes in mood, behavior, or daily functioning are important cues that it may be time to connect with a licensed professional
Therapy isn’t just for crisis moments. It’s also for growth, healing, and rediscovering your strength—especially with the gentle support of a therapy animal by your side.
What Makes Animal-Assisted Counseling Different?
If you’re nervous about opening up in a traditional therapy setting, starting therapy in Indiana with a therapy dog might feel a little more approachable.
At AACI, therapy dogs like Sadie offer calm, unconditional presence. They can:
Help reduce anxiety in sessions
Offer grounding and comfort during emotional moments
Create a safe, relaxed environment for people of all ages
Support clients in feeling more seen, accepted, and supported
It’s amazing how a dog just being there can make it easier to show up, talk honestly, and feel at ease.
Research shows that animal-assisted therapy—including sessions with a therapy dog—can “significantly reduce pain, anxiety, depression and fatigue”
You Don’t Need to Wait for “Rock Bottom”
One of the biggest myths about therapy is that you have to hit a breaking point before reaching out. That’s simply not true.
You can start therapy when:
You want to build healthier habits
You’re curious about your emotional patterns
You’re ready to make a change (even if it’s small)
You need a safe space that’s just for you
We’ve worked with adults, teens, couples, and families who all had different reasons for reaching out—but one thing they had in common was the courage to take that first step.
Ready When You Are
If this post resonates with you, that might be your sign. You don’t need to have all the answers. You just need a willingness to begin.
And if you’re wondering what that first session might look like, we’re happy to walk you through it—no pressure, just compassion.
📩 Reach out to schedule your first appointment or learn more about how therapy with Sadie might support your journey.
