Service Dogs

Are there any mediators besides me who have disabilities and use a service dog or use a dog as part of their practice?

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Permalink Reply by Jeff Thompson on May 15, 2011 at 3:24pm

Cissy,

Hello! Great question. Admittedly, you are the only one I am aware of. I am interested to hear from others, especially outside of the NYC area.

-jeff

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Permalink Reply by cissy stamm on May 15, 2011 at 3:45pm

I'm aware of some psychotherapists who use their own pets as therapy dogs during sessions. If welcomed by clients, my service dog will do the same. There are good studies out there on the neurobiology of oxytocin and its mutual release between humans and dogs (and other animals). I've come to believe that at least in part this explains why dogs can be so helpful in mediations.

Others' experiences with this or thoughts on the subject would be most welcome.

Cissy