Ivan Petersel's Journey from Dog Walker to Autism Advocate

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Unlock the secrets of autism service dog training with our special guest, Ivan Petersel, a certified professional dog trainer with a fascinating backstory.

From his beginnings with a psychology degree and work in developmental disabilities to running a successful dog walking business in Manhattan, Ivan's journey is anything but ordinary.

Tune in as we explore his experiences, including dealing with aggressive dogs and unraveling a scam that left him determined to become an expert in autism service dog training.

Ivan shares the criteria for selecting the right service dogs and the importance of matching temperament with family needs, offering insights into the 12 to 24-month training process that transforms these dogs into life-changing companions.

Discover the intricacies of training dogs for individuals with autism, with a focus on personalizing approaches to fit unique needs.

Ivan sheds light on the spectrum of autism, highlighting the different interaction and training requirements for verbal and nonverbal individuals.

Learn about the therapeutic roles these dogs can play, from deep pressure therapy to interrupting meltdowns, and the vital role of collaboration with families and ABA therapists.

We also discuss the challenges in finding specialized trainers and the inspiring organic growth of Ivan's service, fueled by word-of-mouth and a burgeoning online presence.

Join us for a compelling conversation that celebrates the transformative power of service dogs in enhancing the lives of those with autism.

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intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild

Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. 

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

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