Dog Assisted Therapy

Meet Freya, our newest addition to the Misneach Counselling team!

Freya is an 18-month-old Boxer cross Labrador with a heart of gold. Rescued due to the housing crisis, we feel incredibly fortunate to have her with us.

With her fabulous warm temperament, Freya adores people and is always seeking hugs and kisses. Despite her large size, she is remarkably gentle and calm.

Dogs like Freya are increasingly valued for the multitude of benefits they bring to sessions.

The presence of dogs in therapy sessions can offer numerous benefits, including:

• Emotional Support: Dogs are naturally empathetic animals and can provide comfort and emotional support to individuals experiencing distress or anxiety.
• Reduced Stress: Interacting with a therapy dog has been shown to reduce levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, leading to a sense of relaxation and calmness.
• Improved Mood: Spending time with a dog can boost the release of oxytocin and endorphins, neurotransmitters associated with feelings of happiness and well-being.
• Enhanced Communication: Dogs can serve as a bridge for communication, especially for individuals who find it challenging to express themselves verbally. The presence of a dog can create a more relaxed and open atmosphere, making it easier to engage in therapy.
• Increased Socialization: Therapy dogs can help individuals feel more comfortable in social situations, facilitating interaction and connection with others.
• Mindfulness and Presence: Interacting with a dog encourages mindfulness and being present in the moment, as it requires focus and attention on the dog’s cues and behavior.
• Normalization of Environment: For some clients, having a dog present in therapy can make the environment feel more relaxed and familiar, reducing feelings of intimidation or formality.