Animal-Assisted Psychotherapy (AAP) is a therapeutic approach that incorporates trained animals—such as dogs, horses, and even small animals like rabbits—into psychotherapy sessions. This form of therapy enhances emotional well-being, reduces stress, and improves social and behavioral skills.
This article explores how animal-assisted psychotherapy works, its benefits, and the best conditions for its use in mental health treatment.
What Is Animal-Assisted Psychotherapy?
Animal-assisted psychotherapy is a structured and goal-oriented intervention that uses the bond between humans and animals to support emotional and psychological healing. It is commonly used alongside traditional therapy methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
How Does It Work?
- A licensed mental health professional integrates trained animals into therapy sessions.
- The patient engages in specific activities with the animal, such as petting, grooming, walking, or guided interactions.
- The therapist uses the individual’s response to the animal to address emotional or psychological challenges.
- The presence of animals creates a calming and safe environment, reducing stress and improving self-expression.
Types of Animals Used in Therapy
Different animals serve distinct roles in Animal-Assisted Psychotherapy, depending on the client’s needs and the therapeutic setting.
1. Canine-Assisted Therapy (Therapy Dogs)
Best for: Anxiety, PTSD, depression, and emotional trauma
How it helps: Provides companionship, comfort, and a sense of security
Common uses: Therapy for children, individuals with autism, and trauma survivors
2. Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (Therapy Horses)
Best for: PTSD, personality disorders, substance abuse, and behavioral disorders
How it helps: Encourages trust, responsibility, and self-awareness
Common uses: Veterans with PTSD, individuals with emotional dysregulation, and those struggling with self-confidence
3. Feline-Assisted Therapy (Therapy Cats)
Best for: Anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders
How it helps: Provides a soothing presence, reduces loneliness, and promotes relaxation
Common uses: Nursing homes, hospitals, and trauma therapy
4. Small Animal Therapy (Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Birds, etc.)
Best for: Children with autism, ADHD, and social difficulties
How it helps: Encourages gentle interaction and social engagement
Common uses: School therapy programs, child therapy, and hospital settings
Benefits of Animal-Assisted Psychotherapy
Animal-assisted therapy is supported by scientific research showing its effectiveness in improving mental and emotional health.
1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Lowers cortisol levels (stress hormone)
Promotes the release of oxytocin (a calming, bonding hormone)
Creates a safe and comforting environment
2. Improves Emotional Regulation
Helps individuals manage strong emotions such as anger and frustration
Encourages self-awareness and emotional connection
Supports individuals with trauma and PTSD
3. Enhances Social and Communication Skills
Encourages non-verbal communication in individuals with autism
Improves trust and relationship-building
Helps individuals struggling with social anxiety develop confidence
4. Provides a Sense of Purpose and Responsibility
Caring for an animal improves self-esteem
Encourages routine and structure in daily life
Helps individuals develop a nurturing attitude
5. Aids in Trauma Recovery
Helps individuals with PTSD feel safe and grounded
Reduces hypervigilance and emotional numbness
Provides a non-judgmental therapeutic presence
Who Can Benefit from Animal-Assisted Psychotherapy?
Animal-assisted therapy is effective for individuals struggling with various mental health challenges, including:
Anxiety disorders (Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety)
Depression and mood disorders
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Substance abuse and addiction recovery
Personality disorders (e.g., Borderline Personality Disorder, HPD)
Children with emotional or behavioral challenges
Animal-Assisted Therapy vs. Emotional Support Animals (ESA) and Service Animals
Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAP):
Conducted by a licensed therapist
Animals are trained specifically for therapy sessions
Used in clinical and structured settings
Emotional Support Animals (ESA):
Provide comfort but do not require specialized training
Owned by individuals with mental health conditions
Not used in structured therapy sessions
Service Animals:
Specially trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities
Used by individuals with physical disabilities, PTSD, or blindness
Have legal protections under the ADA
Limitations and Challenges of Animal-Assisted Psychotherapy
Although Animal-Assisted Therapy is highly effective, it also has limitations:
- Not suitable for everyone – Some individuals have animal allergies or phobias.
- Requires trained animals – Only certified therapy animals should be used.
- Not a standalone treatment – Works best when combined with traditional psychotherapy techniques.
Final Thoughts
Animal-Assisted Psychotherapy is a powerful and scientifically supported approach to improving emotional well-being, reducing stress, and enhancing social skills. Whether through therapy dogs, horses, or small animals, the human-animal bond provides comfort, stability, and healing for individuals facing mental health challenges.
When integrated into structured therapy sessions, this unique approach fosters emotional growth, trust, and resilience, making it an invaluable tool in modern psychotherapy.