Animal-Assisted Therapy Services

Clinical Therapy Facilitated by the Human-Animal Bond

Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) is a goal-directed intervention in which an animal meeting specific criteria is an integral part of the treatment process. ServiceOrca connects patients and caregivers with licensed health and human service professionals—such as occupational therapists, physical therapists, and mental health counselors—who professionally include animals in their practice. This is not entertainment; it is a structured clinical service designed to improve physical, social, emotional, and cognitive functioning.

Modalities of Animal-Assisted Intervention

Therapeutic services vary by the animal partner and the clinical goal. The professionals on our platform offer specialized interventions including:

• Equine-Assisted Therapy (Hippotherapy): Physical, occupational, or speech therapy utilizing the movement of the horse to improve neuromuscular function (often for CP, MS, or stroke recovery).
• Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP): Mental health treatment where interaction with horses helps clients process trauma, anxiety, and addiction (e.g., EAGALA method).
• Canine-Assisted Therapy: Counseling or rehabilitation sessions where a trained therapy dog assists in lowering anxiety, improving motor skills, or facilitating communication.
• Therapeutic Visiting Services (AAA): Structured visits to hospitals, nursing homes, or schools to provide comfort and cognitive stimulation.
• Occupational Therapy with Animals: Using grooming, feeding, or leading animals to improve fine motor skills and executive function.
• Bird/Small Animal Therapy: Specialized interventions for sensory processing and calming, often used in pediatric or geriatric care.

Professional Standards and Animal Welfare

On ServiceOrca, we distinguish between a 'pet' and a 'therapy partner.' Our service-centric model allows you to uate the practitioner's medical or psychological credentials alongside the animal's training. You can search for services based on specific conditions, such as 'Autism Support' or 'PTSD Rehabilitation,' ensuring the provider specializes in your area of need.

These services are inherently location-based, requiring a safe, controlled environment like a stable, clinic, or specialized center. Whether you are seeking physical rehabilitation through the movement of a horse or emotional breakthrough via the non-judgmental presence of a dog, ServiceOrca connects you with professionals who uphold high standards of clinical practice and animal welfare to facilitate healing.