Dog Therapy and Play Therapy in One

In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', Barbara Vokatis interviews Teri Holamon, a pioneer in Animal Assisted Play Therapy. They discuss the profound impact of therapy animals in educational settings, particularly how they help children develop emotional and social skills. Teri shares heartwarming stories of her therapy dog, Gibbs, the transformative experiences of children who interacted with him, and some activities. The conversation also explores the differences between traditional therapy dogs and those included in play therapy, the role of horses in therapeutic settings, and the importance of professional development for educators and therapists in this field.

Takeaways:

-Animal Assisted Play Therapy is a growing field in education.

-Therapy animals can significantly impact children's emotional development.

-Gibbs, Teri's therapy dog, played a crucial role in many children's lives.

-Empathy can be fostered in children through interactions with therapy animals.

-The presence of therapy animals can help reduce anxiety in children.

-Horses can also be used in therapeutic settings, offering unique benefits.

-Understanding animal behavior is essential for effective therapy.

-Professional development is crucial for those working with therapy animals.

-Children learn valuable social skills through play with therapy animals.

-The relationship between children and therapy animals can last a lifetime.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Animal Assisted Therapy in Education

04:10 The Impact of Therapy Animals on Children

12:06 Exploring the Role of Horses in Therapy

14:18 Understanding Animal Assisted Play Therapy

23:04 Agency and Choice in Animal Interactions

29:02 Training and Certification in Animal Assisted Therapy

35:47 Exploring Personal Growth and Development

Please connect with Teri and check the important websites:

Teri's contact information: https://iiaapt.org/certified-professional/teri-holamon-lpc-s-rpt-s-caapt-s-chst-caebs/

Teri's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teriholamoncaapt/

Teri's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063716732869

School-Based AAPT Interest Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1471963423613348

International Institute for Animal Assisted Play Therapy website: https://iiaapt.org/

Certification in Animal Assisted Play Therapy: https://aaptcertboard.org

How to become a member of International Association for Animal Assisted Play Therapy: https://iaaapt.org

Gibbs' YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@gibbstheradoodletm1889

Resources for play therapy: https://www.a4pt.org/default.aspx

Please connect with the host, Dr. Barb, at https://barbaravokatis.com, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!