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College Experts Tout The Benefits Of Animal-Assisted Interventions
As educators and mental health professionals strive to create a more supportive campus environment for students, one innovative approach has gained popularity in recent years – Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAIs). In this article, we will delve into the transformative power of therapy dogs, bunnies, and horses on college campuses across the United States.
At Lawrence Technological University (LTU), Director of Counseling Services Christy Schulze reports that their AAI programs have seen remarkable results. By utilizing Maggie, a 4-year-old miniature pinscher mix, in both individual and group sessions, students can learn emotional awareness and develop healthy coping mechanisms. The director emphasizes the effectiveness of these interactions, stating that “Maggie’s reactions and engagement with students during their counseling appointments are partly influenced by the emotional energy and behaviors the students bring into the room.”
In a similar vein, Dickinson College has incorporated therapy bunnies into their wellness offerings. Dr. Lauren Strunk, Executive Director of the Dickinson Wellness Center, highlights the success of “The Bunny Connections Group,” which focuses on interpersonal connections, boundary-setting, and playtime with the bunnies. Students can also opt for individual sessions, utilizing the calming presence of Dixie, Otto, BunBun, or Moxie to explore personal challenges.
Texas Christian University (TCU) has taken a unique approach by offering an equine therapy program. Lesli Figueiredo, an equine therapist, partners with TCU to facilitate emotional growth through interactions with horses at Freedom Reigns Counseling. Students reported increased productivity while studying and a renewed appreciation for life’s simple joys.
Research suggests that AAIs can promote social connections, teach emotional awareness, reduce stigma, provide a calming presence, and even boost academic performance. It is not difficult to understand why these programs have gained popularity among students.
Source: www.forbes.com
