Sometimes all you need is a few minutes with a four legged friend. 

The impact of animal assisted therapy is undeniable. The ability to decrease a child’s anxiety, to make them feel safe, allow them to be vulnerable...that is what it is all about. Involving therapy dogs within our interventions allows us to create a therapeutic alliance that may be challenging to achieve otherwise. Our work as Child Life and Trauma Specialists is only as valuable as the safe environment we are able to foster. Each of our specialists are trained in various skill sets to create an environment where children can reach their maximum potential. 

Bella is available to provide virtual and in person animal assisted therapy. She is licensed as both a facility dog and therapy dog through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs Organization. Through 3 years of intensive training, Bella has become an incredibly nurturing, comforting and supportive dog in countless ways. She assists our team in any way she can.

You can find Bella

Laying on a clients lap to physically and emotionally support them during a medical procedure 
Maintaining eye contact with a child struggling to read to help build confidence 
Providing hand over paw contact for physical comfort in hospice care
Playing fetch with a client to encourage physical movement 
Popping bubbles with a toddler to teach deep breathing 
On a walk with a teenager rehearsing ways to confront her abuser 
Showing off her commands to make a child laugh - the most powerful medicine of all 
Encouraging a teen recovering from an Eating Disorder to conquer challenge meals 
Being pet by a client as we discuss new diagnoses and treatment options 
Modeling yoga poses to introduce mindfulness activities
Playing with a child to support attainment of developmental milestones 
Snuggling a trauma survivor while actively de-escalating the situation and decreasing anxiety 
Running around with a child in foster care to normalize play therapy when a child who has lost trust in all adults 

The power of animal assisted therapy 

Lowers blood pressure 
Releases automatic relaxation response 
Improves cardio-vascular health 
Releases endorphins with a calming effect 
Provides non-stressful, non-judgemental environment 
Encourages communication 
Decreases feelings of anxiety and depression 
Increases motivation 
Provides comfort 
Increases socialization and sense of community 
Improves recovery time 
Increases mental stimulation
Release of serotonin, prolactin, and oxytocin (all elevate moods)