PATS

Parallel Animal Therapy Sessions

12 Points Psychology is proud to introduce Parallel Animal Therapy Sessions, aka PATS to their Ferntree Gully location. Danielle Graber, our principal psychologist (pictured here with some trainees) is also a certified dog trainer and it’s this unusual mix of qualifications that allow us to offer this innovative service. 

By working dog obedience sessions in parallel to a client’s own therapy sessions we can maximise therapeutic gains and create a positive feedback loop where, for example, the client’s reduced anxiety calms the dog, which in turn helps calm the client and so on… 

We know that a positive relationship between people and their pets can have a very beneficial effect on both human and animal health and well-being (including mental health), but as in any significant relationship, problems may sometimes arise! 

Perhaps you’ve rescued a dog and need help finding a common language and building trust. Or you have an existing dog that’s been put out by changes in the family. Maybe you would like to learn more about effective communication skills or attachment theory and it’s applications while having some fun with your family pet. Even if you only want to teach your fur family members some basic manners or tricks, we can tailor a PATS program to suit you and your own therapeutic needs as well. 

If you’re an existing client, give us a call and ask about how to take advantage of this brand new service. For new clients, call and book in for an individual intake and assessment session to determine what shape your PAT sessions may take.