Northstar Counseling

This course will focus on how partnering with animals can support the therapeutic process for individuals, couples, and families by facilitating systemic change. The course will explore the unique role in family systems that animals play in many of our clients’ relationships, past, present, and future. This course is designed for systemic mental health professionals who are interested in expanding their clinical skills by integrating therapy or client animals into their practice and who want to understand more about AAT as a referral source.

Participants who complete this course will be able to: 

•  Demonstrate competency in understanding how AAT sessions can be conducted, including integrating animals into therapeutic interventions to address systemic issues such as communication patterns, relational dynamics, and family roles 
• Explore ways to foster a supportive, inclusive environment for clients and their families, recognizing the unique contributions that animals can make to the therapeutic process. 
• Understand the need to adapt AAT interventions to meet the specific needs of diverse populations, acknowledging factors such as cultural background, language, and accessibility. 
• Explore the ethical considerations in AAT, including issues related to animal welfare, client confidentiality, and professional boundaries.
• Reflect on personal biases and assumptions related to the relationship between humans and animals