Dog-Assisted Therapy

Dog assisted therapy is grounded in the belief that dogs are skilled co-facilitators of emotional and behavioural change. These sessions invite clients into a shared learning space where they interact directly with therapy dogs in structured, intentional ways. The core of our approach is based on social cognitive learning, where clients observe, imitate, and engage in meaningful interaction to develop new emotional and social skills.

In each session, clients are introduced to the foundations of animal training and communication. This is not obedience for entertainment or control; it’s the art of building a relationship rooted in trust and cooperation through thoughtful and carefully selected training exercises. Clients learn how to read canine body language, adjust their own behaviour, and apply positive, force-free training techniques to build trust.

The process of shaping a dog’s behaviour, from simple cues like touch or sit, to more complex problem-solving tasks, helps clients build their own emotional regulation, patience, and communication skills. By guiding the dog through tasks, clients come to understand how their own actions and emotions influence the world around them, a powerful mirror for those struggling with anxiety, trauma, or social disconnection. 

Wolf-Assisted Learning

Because wolves respond immediately and authentically, they provide real-time feedback. If a client is too forceful, uncertain, or emotionally shut down, the wolf will reflect that in their behaviour. With the therapist’s support, clients learn impulse control, develop consistency, and become more mindful of their own emotional states. Through this model, canine-assisted learning becomes a space where both the wolf and the client grow together, each shaping the other’s progress.

We focus on creating a sense of shared success between client and animal, not just for the sake of learning cues, but for the experience of being in sync with another living being. The work builds confidence, resilience, and empathy, skills that extend far beyond the training mat and into every part of the client’s life.

Horse-Assisted Learning

Equine assisted learning offers a unique opportunity for individuals to engage in powerful personal growth through relationship-based interactions with horses. This work is rooted in social cognitive learning theory and reinforcement-based practices. Horses are not ridden in our programs. Instead, the focus is entirely on groundwork.

Horses are highly sensitive animals who mirror human emotions and intentions with remarkable accuracy. When a person enters the presence of a horse, it immediately begins to interpret posture, tone of voice, and even subtle mood shifts. This natural sensitivity creates a clear and honest feedback loop. If a client approaches with anxiety or uncertainty, the horse may step away. If a client is calm, consistent, and grounded, the horse will often draw closer. This kind of interaction allows clients to practice emotional regulation, patience, and clear communication in a way that is non-verbal but deeply effective.

The groundwork in equine-assisted learning might involve simple tasks such as haltering, leading, or walking alongside the horse. As the client builds confidence and develops a bond with the horse, they may be guided through more complex training  exercises that require planning, cooperation, and mutual trust. Each session is structured to help the individual explore how their thoughts and feelings influence their behaviour.

Because horses do not pretend, perform, or withhold, they invite authenticity in return. Clients learn quickly that the only way to succeed in partnership with a horse is through self-awareness and emotional honesty. This experience is especially powerful for those who struggle with control, anger, fear, or defense mechanisms. 

Equine-assisted learning is more than just being around horses, it’s about becoming attuned to another being’s needs, learning to listen, and stepping into a place of mutual respect while applying science-based training exercises. As clients train, guide, and connect with the horse, they train themselves. This learning transfers naturally to their relationships with other people, making it an ideal intervention strategy.