Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT)

Finding comfort and support from our four-legged friends

At New Beginnings Therapy, we are passionate about the use of well-trained animals as a supplement to talk therapy. According to Pet Partners, the use of animal-assisted therapy can help reduce stress and anxiety, reduce feelings of worry, increase feelings of social support, and improve overall well-being.

Meet Our Therapy Dog Team

Baxter (He/Him)

Certified Therapy Dog

Baxter is an almost two year old Australian Labradoodle. He is sweet, curious, loving, and attentive. In therapy, he plays a more active role as an animal assitant by providing deep pressure therapy and sitting next to clients or at their feet, depending on the comfort level of the client. He is trained and owned by Amy Jensen of Baxter & Bella. Baxter is a registered Canine Good Citizen and is working toward becoming a registered Pet Partner.

Teo (He/Him)

Certified Therapy Dog

Teo is a two year old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. He is friendly, gentle, quiet, and is very respectful of other people's personal space. In therapy, he tends to play a less active role and prefers to be a quiet, calm presence to help clients feel more comfortable. Teo is owned and trained by Amanda Crosland (certified professional dog trainer). He is a registered Canine Good Citizen and is working toward becoming a registered Pet Partner.

Mia (She/Her)

Therapy Dog In Training

Mia is owned and trained by Amanda Crosland.

Bandit (He/Him)

Therapy Dog in Training

Bandit is a seven year old Shih Tzu. He loves people and will enthusiastically greet everyone he meets like a long-lost best friend. Bandit enjoys sitting next to clients on the couch, occasionally laying or standing on their laps to provide comfort and reassurance. He will also relax on the floor around the office providing a happy, loving presence in the therapy room while clients do their work. Bandit is owned and trained by Dr. Carly LeBaron. He is currently training to become a Certified Therapy Dog and Canine Good Citizen.

Ruby (She/Her)

Therapy Dog In Training

Ruby is a caring, cuddly, and curious presence in the therapy office. Ruby is a three year old Cavapoo who loves to develop relationships with others. Ruby is known to come cuddle by your side on the couch or witness your experience at a distance if you choose. She is owned and trained by Ashley Bell. She is a registered Canine Good Citizen and is currently working towards becoming a Certified Therapy Dog. When Ruby is not at the office, she can often be found out on a country or mountain trail with Ashley.

Disclosures

All of our therapy dogs are groomed regularly, are up-to-date on their vaccinations, and are taken to the vet annually for check-ups and other appointments as needed. They are kept under supervision of their handler at all times to ensure the health and safety of everyone (furry and not).

An assessment will be done with a client prior to participation in Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) to determine if it is a good fit for both the client and the animal. It is the responsibility of the client to inform the therapist of any allergies or potential health concerns that would mean that AAT is not in their best interest. A separate consent form with more information will be provided to the client before engaging in AAT.