Animal-Assisted Therapy for Panic Disorder

Animal-assisted therapy, or AAT, is the use of trained animals for therapeutic purposes. Through AAT, a person can develop skills to help in managing physical, cognitive, and/or emotional limitations. Settings for and uses of AAT may vary, such as hospital rehabilitation programs,group therapyfor mental health, or speech therapy for children.

AAT is a treatment process intended for optimal healing and goal-oriented activities. Many people find comfort, safety, and security while around animals. Using animals as a source of support can assist a person in feeling more open and engaged in the treatment process. Dogs, cats, and horses are some of the most common animals utilized in AAT treatment sessions. Other animals that are less regularly a part of the AAT process include rabbits, birds, and dolphins.

How Animal-Assisted Therapy Can Help With Anxiety Disorders

Psychotherapyis one of the most commontreatment optionsfor panic disorder. Through psychotherapy, a person can explore past issues, overcome negative thinking, develop more healthy behaviors, and better manage their symptoms. Despite the helpfulness of psychotherapy, there are some barriers to getting help for panic disorder that AAT may be able to breakthrough.

Many people find it difficult to open up to a therapist, but communication is an important aspect of the therapy process. By using AAT, a person may be able to more readily build rapport and trust with their therapist. Group therapy can also be enhanced through AAT by helping members socialize and feel comfortable with self-expression in a group setting.

AAT can also help in dealing with common issues for people with panic disorder, such as improving low self-esteem, decreasingsymptoms of depression, and combating feelings ofloneliness. Research has shown that AAT can assist a person with a mental health condition in achieving growth and healing. AAT may aid in reducing feelings ofstressand anxiety, creating a relaxed and supportive therapeutic environment.

Where to Find Animal-Assisted Therapy Services

AAT animals and professionals who provide these services are not just bringing a pet into a therapy session. Rather, they are required to be thoroughly trained in AAT. Certification programs provide specific training criteria standards for both the animals and their handlers. For example, the handler will need to be able to recognize when the animal is becoming distressed. Training will also ensure that the animal has the most appropriate temperament, health, and obedience that will be required for its role in AAT.

Information on training and specialists who offer animal-assisted therapy services can be located online through service directories, such asPet PartnersandTherapet. Practitioners who utilize animal-assisted therapy for mental health services must be qualified mental health specialists, working within the scoop of their profession. AAT can be used as part of the treatment plan, along with more traditional treatment options, includingcognitive-behavioral therapyandmedicationsfor panic disorder.

Some people may choose to adopt their own specially trained dog to assist in managing their condition. Formally referred to asservice dogs, these animals are not deemed “pets,” as they are specifically trained to assist people with disabilities. A service dog may be an option if panic disorder and/oragoraphobiaare severely diminishing a person’s quality of life. Service dogs may be able to assist in managingpanic attacks, reducing anxiety, and increasing feelings of safety when leaving home.