There is a simple, profound comfort in the presence of an animal. Their unconditional acceptance and gentle nature can soothe the soul in a way that words often cannot. Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is a formal therapeutic modality that harnesses this powerful human-animal bond to help clients achieve specific clinical goals. It is a gentle yet deeply practical way to facilitate connection, comfort, and healing.

At Lenape Wellness Center, we have seen firsthand how incorporating animals into the therapeutic process can open hearts and calm anxious minds. As part of our commitment to treating the whole person, our Animal-Assisted Therapy program provides a unique opportunity for clients to experience the pure, nonjudgmental support that only an animal can offer, helping to create a sense of safety for the deeper work of recovery.

What is Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT)?

Animal Assisted Therapy is a goal-directed intervention in which an animal that meets specific criteria is an integral part of the treatment process. It is much more than simply having pets on the premises. AAT is delivered and/or directed by a health or human service provider with specialized expertise and within the scope of their practice.

In an AAT session, a therapist intentionally uses the interaction between you and a trained therapy animal to help you work toward your goals. The animal’s presence can act as a catalyst, helping you to engage more readily in the therapeutic process, practice nurturing skills, and explore difficult emotions in a safe and supportive context.

The Science of Comfort: How AAT Works

Science backs the benefits of interacting with animals. Petting an animal can create measurable physiological changes that reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being.

Physiological Benefits: Studies have shown that interactions with animals can lower blood pressure, decrease heart rate, and reduce levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. Simultaneously, they can trigger the release of oxytocin, a powerful hormone associated with bonding and positive social connections.
Psychological Benefits: Animals offer unconditional positive regard; they don’t judge you for your past or struggles. This creates an environment of profound psychological safety. They can also act as a “social lubricant,” breaking the ice and making it easier to build rapport and open up to your therapist and peers in Group Therapy.

AAT vs. Equine Therapy: What’s the Difference?

While both therapies involve the healing power of animals, AAT and Equine Therapy are distinct modalities that offer different experiences and therapeutic benefits.

Animal-assisted therapy (AAT), as offered at Lenape, typically involves smaller, specially trained animals like dogs. The focus of these sessions is often on providing comfort, reducing anxiety, building rapport, and practicing nurturing behaviors in a calm, contained environment.
Equine Therapy involves specifically working with horses. Because horses are large, powerful prey animals, the focus of these sessions is on building trust, developing clear non-verbal communication, establishing healthy boundaries, and fostering self-confidence.

Both are invaluable parts of our Experiential Therapy offerings, and your treatment team will help determine which is the best fit for you.

“Watching our group of clients bond together… in one of our awesome activities, such as equine therapy, animal assisted therapy or Yoga is always amazing.”– Amanda M. (staff)

The Therapeutic Goals of AAT

Our therapists facilitate AAT sessions to help clients work toward a variety of important goals, including:

Reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress.
Decreasing feelings of loneliness, isolation, and alienation.
Improving social and communication skills.
Building empathy, compassion, and nurturing abilities.
Increasing self-esteem and a sense of purpose.
Providing a source of grounding and comfort during the processing of trauma or difficult emotions.
Motivating engagement and participation in the overall treatment process.

A Complement to Your Overall Treatment

Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is not a standalone treatment but a vital and integrated component of your comprehensive care plan at Lenape Wellness. The comfort, trust, and emotional regulation you develop during an AAT session can have a powerful ripple effect throughout your recovery journey.

For example, the calming effect of an AAT session can make you more receptive to the challenging cognitive work of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). The sense of connection fostered with an animal can make building trust with your therapist in Individual Therapy easier. It is a key part of our Holistic Therapy philosophy, addressing emotional and spiritual needs alongside your mental health.

Experience the Healing Power of the Human-Animal Bond

The bond between humans and animals is simple, pure, and profoundly healing. At Lenape Wellness Center, we proudly offer animal-assisted therapy as part of our commitment to innovative, compassionate, and effective care. It is an opportunity to connect with a gentle spirit and, in doing so, reconnect with the gentleness in yourself.

Animal Assisted Therapy