Sometimes healing happens differently. Our Animal Assisted Psychotherapy program invites the natural bond between humans and animals into the therapeutic process, creating space for insight, emotional safety, and meaningful change.
or email our office: info@lotuscounsellingservices.ca
A clinical intervention, not a pet visit
Animal Assisted Psychotherapy (AAP) is a goal-directed, structured form of therapy in which animals, as an integrated part of the treatment process, help clients meet specific therapeutic objectives. Unlike casual animal interactions or emotional support arrangements, AAP is conducted by a trained, licensed mental health professional who incorporates the human-animal relationship as a deliberate clinical tool.
At Lotus Counselling, our therapists use AAP to complement evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based interventions. The presence of an animal can shift the relational dynamic in session, reducing defences, lowering physiological stress responses, and inviting clients to engage with material they might otherwise avoid.
Research consistently shows that human-animal interaction lowers cortisol levels, reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, and increases oxytocin, the neurochemical associated with trust and social bonding. Sessions take place either in-office (with Marvel and Jarvis, our certified therapy dogs) or at our partner equine facility (with Davina, our therapy horse).
Why it works
Animals create a uniquely honest relational space. They respond to our nervous systems, not our words, making them remarkable co-therapists for a range of mental health concerns.
The rhythmic presence of an animal, a dog's breathing, a horse's movement, can help co-regulate an activated nervous system. Clients often report feeling calmer within minutes of being in the presence of our therapy animals.
Clients who may feel guarded or disconnected in traditional sessions often open more freely when an animal is present. The animal acts as a social bridge, creating warmth and psychological safety in the room.
Animals exist entirely in the present moment. Their engagement naturally draws clients into a more grounded, embodied state, supporting mindfulness practice in a way that feels organic rather than effortful.
Research demonstrates that interaction with animals elevates oxytocin and serotonin while decreasing cortisol. Over time, regular AAP sessions can meaningfully reduce the physiological markers of both anxiety and depression.
For trauma survivors, trust is hard-won. Animals offer nonjudgmental, consistent presence, a form of connection that does not carry the complexity or historical weight of human relationships. This can be profoundly reparative.
Working with a therapy animal, learning to read their signals, respond to their needs, manage your own reactions, can mirror real-life relational challenges and provide rich material for therapeutic reflection and growth.
What to expect
We begin with a conversation about your history, goals, and whether AAP is a clinically appropriate fit. Not every modality is right for everyone, and your therapist will assess this carefully and honestly.
Before beginning sessions, you will have the opportunity to meet Marvel, Jarvis, or Davina in a relaxed, low-pressure introduction. This helps establish comfort and allows your therapist to observe your initial relational responses.
Each session is shaped by your treatment plan. Your therapist will guide activities and observations involving the animal that are purposefully linked to your therapeutic goals, not simply time spent with a pet.
The latter portion of each session is devoted to processing what emerged. Your therapist will help you draw connections between your experience with the animal and the patterns, beliefs, and relational dynamics you are working on.
Certified Animal Assisted Therapy Partner | In-Office Sessions
Marvel is a gentle, intuitive therapy dog who has a remarkable ability to sense the emotional atmosphere in a room. Whether a client is anxious, tearful, or guarded, Marvel responds with quiet, steady presence, never intrusive, always available. He has been particularly effective with clients working through anxiety, attachment difficulties, and relational trauma.
Meet Marvel
Certified Animal Assisted Therapy Partner | In-Office Sessions
Jarvis brings a different energy to the room, playful and expressive, with a natural ability to disarm clients who carry heavy self-criticism or social anxiety. He has been especially valuable in sessions focused on perfectionism, low self-worth, and depression. His unconditional positive regard can be a powerful experience for clients who struggle to believe they are worthy of care.
Meet Jarvis
EAP Partner | Offsite Sessions at Partner Equine Facility
Davina is our therapy horse and the heart of our Equine Assisted Psychotherapy offering. She does not respond to what you say, she responds to how you feel, mirroring tension, calming when you calm, and reflecting patterns even insightful clients may not have noticed. Working with Davina is a somatic, embodied experience, particularly powerful for clients working through trauma, trust challenges, and boundary-setting. No prior experience with horses is required.
Is it right for you?
Animal Assisted Psychotherapy can be a powerful complement to traditional therapy for a wide range of concerns and client profiles.
We take both human and animal welfare seriously. If you have animal allergies or a fear of dogs or horses, please let us know during your initial consultation. We will always prioritize your comfort and physical safety, and will explore whether adaptations or alternative modalities are appropriate.
Frequently asked questions
Still have questions? Take a look below or call our office at 289-895-8906.
Not at all. No prior experience with dogs or horses is necessary. Your therapist will guide you through every step, and all interactions with our animals are voluntary and paced at your comfort level.
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy sessions with Davina take place at our partner equine facility. Sessions occur in a managed, safe environment, typically in or near the barn and paddock area. Please dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes.
Yes. Many clients engage in AAP as an adjunctive service alongside their regular individual therapy, either with a Lotus therapist or an outside provider. We are happy to collaborate with your existing care team.
Coverage depends on your individual plan and the designation of your therapist. Psychotherapy provided by a registered professional may be covered under extended health benefits. We recommend contacting your insurer directly. Our office can provide receipts and support documentation as needed.
Standard sessions are 50 to 60 minutes. Equine sessions with Davina may run slightly longer to account for travel between the facility and session space. Your therapist will discuss timing during your initial consultation.
This is completely normal, and your therapist will never push you beyond your comfort zone. Often, some initial nervousness is itself therapeutically useful material. Your safety and autonomy are always the priority.
Serving Waterdown and the surrounding area
Lotus Counselling Services provides Animal Assisted Psychotherapy from our Waterdown clinic at 299 Dundas Street East, with appointments available to clients across Hamilton, Burlington, Flamborough, Dundas, and the wider Golden Horseshoe. We offer both in-person sessions and secure virtual appointments throughout Ontario, so you can meet with a therapist from wherever feels most comfortable.
Book a free 15-minute consultation and we will help you decide whether Animal Assisted Psychotherapy is a good fit.
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