By Kelly Vates | Executive Director
Thank you to all of you for your continued support of this project! Since Aspen certified as a Therapy Dog just a few short months ago, her presence has been in high demand.
We were given the honor of presenting two workshops at THE Strengthening Families Institute held at the Indianapolis Marriott East on September 12, 2016. This conference is attended mostly by DCS workers or other individuals that work in children services within our state.
Our presentation was titled "4 Paws for our Cause-Canine Assisted Therapy Techniques & Intentions used with Victims of Trauma." We used our slot to discuss the following topics:
Animal assisted therapy has been built upon the benefits of the human-animal bond in order to assist the therapeutic progress in a variety of professions. Using AAT, animals have been used for rapport-building; decreasing anxiety; developing trust; fostering attachment; increasing openness; adding emotional safety; improving motivation; and developing physical, cognitive, emotional and social competencies.
The human-animal bond is a mutually beneficial and dynamic relationship between people and animals that is influenced by behaviors that are essential to the health and well-being of both the human and the animal. This includes, but is not limited to, emotional, psychological, and physical interactions of people, animals and the environment.
The literature on human-animal bonds clearly indicates that they often meet the four prerequisites for an attachment bond: proximity seeking, safe haven, secure base and separation distress. Hence, animals can be viewed as attachment figures.
To briefly summaries the theory: interactions with attachment figures who are available and supportive in times of need foster the development of both a sense of Attachment Security (also called Felt Security) and internal working models that are positive and optimistic, thereby contributing to self-worth, adaptive emotion-regulation strategies, effective psychosocial functioning and favorable mental health. It’s been argued that attachment theory provides a useful framework for understanding the human-animal bond.
AAT best practices cites that each Technique should have an intention. I listed our “intentions” for our First Mate Project which I selected from materials from the Delta Society list of resources.
Aspen did a great job presenting at the conference, engaging attendees during the break times and in general assembly. She didn't mind the hotel either! As you can see in the picture, she had her own bed!
I am happy to report that the conference evaluations were very positive. It is a great privelege to educate others on AAT and encourage Animal Assisted Therapy to be used with victims of abuse and trauma.
As we continue to grow our program, your continued support is greatly necessary and deeply appreciated! This project receives no funding other than what we raise here. Every donation goes directly into providing services to sexual assault victims.
We have some loftly goals for the months ahead. We will keep you posted! Happy Fall...
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