Animal Assisted Therapy
Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology
Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that involves the intentional inclusion of a trained therapy dog as part of psychological treatment. Here at Evolving Minds Menai, AAT is provided by Charmaine, a registered mental health clinician with formal training and professional accreditation in Animal Assisted Therapy.
Working alongside Sebastian, a certified therapy dog with a calm and intuitive presence, Charmaine incorporates AAT into structured, goal-oriented sessions. This is not simply having a dog in the room, it is a clinically informed intervention that supports engagement, co-regulation, and a sense of emotional safety within the therapeutic process.
Charmaine’s work with Animal Assisted Therapy in Sydney is trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, and informed by latest evidence-based practices, blending Animal Assisted Therapy with other therapies.
Research has shown that Animal Assisted Therapy can reduce physiological signs of stress, support emotional regulation, and enhance trust and connection between client and therapist. These benefits can be especially helpful for those who find traditional talk therapy difficult to engage with.
Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) may be especially helpful for people experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, or low motivation. It can also support adolescents and neurodivergent clients, including those with autism or ADHD, by helping them feel more at ease and emotionally supported. These outcomes are particularly valuable when traditional talk therapy feels overwhelming, and are well-supported by research in evidence-based mental health care.
Animal Assisted Therapy is not an alternative or complementary therapy, it is a recognised and meaningful part of mental health treatment when delivered by a trained clinician. AAT is currently available in person at our Menai clinic in Sydney’s Sutherland Shire.
To learn more about Animal Assisted Psychotherapy in the Sutherland Shire or to discuss whether it may be right for you or your child, call us on (02) 8519 4197 or click below to get in touch.