Future Generations Diagnostic, Treatment & Evaluation Center is proud to be the only psychological clinic in the area offering Animal-Assisted Therapy among our menu of primary treatment modalities.

Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) like all forms of therapy is a purposeful, outcome-oriented form of mental health treatment. Like any treatment, it needs to be science-based, empirically sound, and clinically effective. The animal--be it a dog, cat, rabbit, guinea pig, horse, bird, reptile, sheep, you name it--is a tool in the therapeutic process, albeit a potentially powerful one. In the hands of a skillful therapist who understands the healing power of the animal-human bond, AAT channels the hard-earned skills and temperament of highly trained therapy animals (and their equally skillful handlers) to deliver treatment-oriented healthcare services. AAT epitomizes true teamwork: Under the therapist's supervision and direction, the client, therapist, handler, and animal work synergistically to achieve treatment goals and maximize health.

Can Just Anyone Do AAT?

No. Despite a widespread misconception, anyone holding a leash with a Therapy Animal attached to it is not conducting therapy.  In fact, it's illegal to represent yourself as providing therapy, unless you're an appropriately trained and licensed professional. Therapy is a licensable professional service and regulated by state and national laws. Although good therapy appears deceptively simple, it's not. It is a healthcare service and only qualified healthcare professionals are legally capable of providing this treatment. While in AAT the incredible critter usually gets all the credit, neither the animal nor the handler is providing therapy. Likewise, a healthcare professional who simply brings a personal pet to work is courting trouble. Bringing a pet to work doesn't make an otherwise qualified professional an animal handler, nor does it make the animal appropriately trained and socialized.

Where is AAT Used?
AAT may be used in physical health settings and mental health settings. In physical health settings, AAT may be part of an OT/PT program, rehabilitation, recreation, nursing, or medical services. AAT may also be used in mental health settings, such as our Clinic. Animals may be used to help us treat depression and anxiety, overcome trauma, build self-esteem, foster empathy, and more. Contrast this to "AAA" or Animal-Assisted Activities.  Animal-Assisted Activities are wellness visits and friendly shows of support. Examples include volunteers who visit hospitals, nursing home residents, and hospices with their animals. AAA is not treatment, nor is it healthcare service. 

Are there Guidelines for your AAT?
Yes. Our Therapy Animals are highly trained and socialized--many have advanced "degrees," competition titles, or certifications from outside organizations attesting to their skill and temperament. However, they're still animals. Therefore, a safe environment for everyone is uncompromising. A safe environment is a shared responsibility overseen by the treating clinician who has ultimate authority in regulating the delivery of AAT services. Safe environments include:

1. Client comfort. AAT is not for everyone. Some clients may not be suitable for animal-based activities.
2. Handler & Animal comfort. Animals, like people, have off days. In these instances, the therapist and/or the handler may alter the session's approach to ensure the animal's well-being. Likewise we strive to ensure our Handler Volunteers are also comfortable and supported.
3. Connection & Acclimation. Good AAT requires good working relationships. Special attention will be based on selecting the right Therapy Animal for the right client based on individual needs, temperament, preferences, and other factors. Time will be spent on appropriately acclimating everyone to AAT and to establishing a comfortable working relationship for all involved. For example, clients will be taught first how to properly meet and interact with animals.
4. Equipment. Appropriate safety equipment will be used. For example, for a dog or cat this may include a leash, collar, kennel, crate, or other safety-control devices. Animals may wear Therapy Bandanas and ID badges provided by the Clinic.