Transformative Power of Animal-Assisted Intervention

Author: Barbara Vokatis, PhD
Published: Sun 12 Jan 2025
Episode Link: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/barbara-vokatis9/episodes/Transformative-Power-of-Animal-Assisted-Intervention-e2tccbj

In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', AJ Cullen Langell discusses the transformative power of animal-assisted interventions in educational settings, particularly for children with emotional and behavioral challenges. AJ shares her experiences as a licensed clinical social worker and certified animal-assisted intervention professional, highlighting how therapy animals can facilitate communication, emotional expression, and learning. The conversation emphasizes the importance of tailoring interventions to meet individual needs and provides practical activity ideas for educators. AJ also discusses her advocacy work for autism support and the role of therapy animals in enhancing educational experiences.

Takeaways:

-Animal-assisted interventions can significantly improve emotional expression in children.

-Tailoring interventions to individual needs is crucial for effectiveness.

-Writing to therapy animals can help children communicate feelings.

-Engaging activities with therapy animals enhance learning experiences.

-Therapy dogs can break down barriers in communication and social interaction.

-Education should empower all children, regardless of their differences.

-Social media is a valuable resource for sharing ideas in education.

-Therapy animals can help children with autism develop social awareness.

-Consultation and support for families navigating autism services is essential.

-The bond between children and therapy animals can be transformative.

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