Exploring the Realms of Animal-Based Healing Treatments
Animal-assisted therapy (AAT), a unique approach to healthcare treatment, incorporates animals as integral parts of the process. According to the American Humane Association, AAT is a goal-directed intervention, delivered or directed by a professional health or human service professional who demonstrates skill and expertise in the clinical applications of human-animal interactions.
Unlike service animals, trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with challenging conditions, therapy animals offer comfort and can play an active role in therapy. For instance, a therapy client might interact with the animal by grooming it or walking with it.
AAT can take place in various settings, such as libraries, schools, outdoors, rehabilitation centers, correctional facilities, and healthcare settings like hospitals and hospices. It's not limited to clinician's offices and can even happen in airports, nursing homes, and animal shelters.
A 2016 research study has linked AAT to improved blood flow in people experiencing heart failure, while a 2018 study shows that seeing and touching animals can trigger positive physiological changes, including higher levels of serotonin, endorphins, and oxytocin. Furthermore, a 2019 study suggests that AAT can reduce emotional arousal and anger.
AAT has been found to have a positive impact on behaviors and conditions like internalizing disorders, anxiety, PTSD, anger, and externalizing disorders in youth aged 10-19. It supports a wide range of therapies, such as equine therapy for kids with anxiety and canine therapy for childhood trauma.
Sessions can be individual or for groups and can happen in many different locations, such as clinics, hospitals, parks, and schools. The cost of AAT can range from $100 to over $300, depending on the session details and the professional in charge. However, working with a clinical intern instead of a licensed therapist may result in a lower rate.
It's worth noting that AAT is not typically covered by health insurance. The organization responsible for certifying therapy visitation animals under the PALS program in Alberta, Canada, is PALS Alberta.
Therapy animals are used for specific tasks like education or stress relief, and they are handled by a human but provide therapy or education to a third person or party. They can help establish a connection between therapist and client, and they offer comfort in a way that traditional therapy might not.
In conclusion, AAT offers a unique and beneficial approach to healthcare treatment, providing comfort, reducing stress, and improving physical and emotional wellbeing.
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