At Validity Counselling, we believe in creating a safe, supportive environment where young people feel heard, accepted, and empowered. One of the unique approaches we incorporate is Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT), specifically through the presence and involvement of our trained therapy dog Loki.

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What is Animal-Assisted Therapy?
 

AAT is a goal-directed intervention that incorporates animals—most commonly dogs—into the therapeutic process. It is designed to promote emotional growth and healing by building a calming and trusting connection between the youth and the therapy animal, under the guidance of a licensed mental health professional.

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Benefits of AAT for Youth:​​

 

• Emotional Regulation: Interacting with a therapy dog can reduce anxiety, stress, and emotional overwhelm, helping youth feel more at ease during sessions.

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• Improved Communication: The presence of a non-judgmental, comforting animal often encourages children and teens to open up more freely.

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• Building Trust and Empathy: Forming a bond with a therapy dog can foster trust and teach empathy—skills that are transferable to other relationships.

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• Behavioral Support: AAT has been shown to support youth dealing with trauma, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and other emotional or behavioral challenges.

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