

About
Animal Assisted Psychotherapy at Riverscape Counseling
Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is a method used in counseling to integrate pet partners into the therapeutic treatment process.
Animal-assisted therapy is a formalized method that takes place in guided sessions with your therapist. The goals of treatment remain the same, but research shows that including therapy animals can speed up the progress made, as well as improving relationships between the struggling individual and their doctor, counselor, or therapist.
How Does Animal Assistet Therapy Help
By bringing this innovative treatment to our team, Riverscape therapists can add this option to your individualized treatment plan. Pet therapy is beneficial to all types of treatment, including childhood abuse or neglect, grief counseling, PTSD, addiction treatment, and even as a support during chemotherapy and cancer treatment.
Animal-assisted counseling has been specifically shown to improve:
Self-esteem and confidence
Conflicts in relationships
Feelings of debilitating grief and loss
Rapport with (i.e., feeling close to) your therapist or doctor
Self-care and willingness to exercise
Feelings of well-being and motivation
Motor skills and joint movement
Blood pressure and cardiovascular health
Anxiety and depression
Social skills and verbal communication1
Click here to read more about our Equine Therapy or .... learn more about Gabby !
