Dr. Buffy Cramer-Hammann

Animal Assisted Psychotherapy utilizes the human-animal bond to increase the likelihood of desired change and promote a supportive therapeutic environment.  Therapy animals are often perceived to be accepting, non-threatening and non-judgmental - all key components to a caring and positive therapy session.  The presence of Canine Co-Therapists has many functions.  They can be educational and motivational as well as increasing rapport within the therapy session.

Specific areas often addressed with the assistance of a Canine Co-Therapist include:

Increase focus and attention

Gains in self-esteem

Reduce anxiety, grief and isolation

Greater willingness to be involved in the therapeutic process

Increase trust and empathy

Improve self-control

Problem-solving skills

Social skill development

If you have questions regarding Animal Assisted Psychotherapy

or working with a Canine Co-Therapist, please contact Dr. Cramer-Hammann.