Sometimes Healing Starts with Feeling Safe

The presence of a therapy animal can create comfort, reduce anxiety, and help clients open up in a supportive therapeutic setting.

Animal-Assisted Therapy

Healing with the Help of Therapy Animals | Unique Approach to Mental Health

What is it?

Therapeutic sessions that incorporate specially trained therapy dogs to help clients relax, open up, and heal.

Who benefits from animal-assisted therapy?

  • Children who feel more comfortable with animals present
  • Individuals with trauma who struggle with trust
  • People with anxiety who find animals calming
  • Those dealing with depression who need motivation and joy
  • Clients with attachment issues or social difficulties
  • Anyone who loves animals and finds their presence healing

The science behind animal-assisted therapy

Interacting with therapy animals has been shown to:

  • Lower blood pressure and heart rate
  • Reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels
  • Increase oxytocin (bonding hormone) production
  • Decrease feelings of loneliness and isolation
  • Improve mood and reduce anxiety
  • Facilitate emotional expression and vulnerability

How it works in sessions

Our certified therapy dogs attend sessions with their handler-therapists. Animals don't judge, they accept unconditionally, and they help create a calm, safe environment where healing happens naturally.

Activities may include:

  • Petting and cuddling for calming
  • Walking or playing with the animal
  • Reading to therapy dogs (great for kids with reading anxiety)
  • Discussing feelings while interacting with the animal
  • Using the animal as a bridge to discuss difficult topics

Conditions animal-assisted therapy helps

  • Anxiety and PTSD
  • Depression and grief
  • Attachment and trust issues
  • Social anxiety and autism spectrum
  • Behavioral challenges in children
  • Trauma recovery


Safety and cleanliness: All therapy animals are certified, vaccinated, and groomed. Clients with allergies are not recommended for animal-assisted sessions.

Certified by Tri-State Canine Response Team
In Person

Bradley

Bradley, a delightful Bichpoo, has recently reached an exciting milestone in his journey of spreading comfort and joy. In 2026, he was certified as a member of the Tri-State Crisis Response Team. In January 2023, he proudly passed his Therapy Dog Certification test through The Alliance of Therapy Dogs, marking an important achievement for both Bradley and his human team. With his calm demeanor and gentle heart, he has proven himself well-suited for the meaningful work of therapy service.

Now a certified therapy dog, Bradley brings his soothing presence into office settings, where he happily offers pets, cuddles, and quiet companionship to clients seeking a moment of comfort. Whether someone is feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or simply in need of a friendly face, Bradley is always ready to lend support in the most heartfelt way he knows how. His warm personality and intuitive nature make him a beloved source of calm and connection for everyone he meets.

When Bradley’s working day comes to an end, he fully embraces the joys of off-duty life. He delights in tasty treats, long cozy naps, and plenty of belly rubs, soaking up every bit of relaxation he can. These simple pleasures recharge him for his next opportunity to spread happiness, ensuring that Bradley is always ready to brighten someone’s day—both on and off the clock.

Certified by Tri-State Canine Response Team
In Person

Loki

Loki, a gentle and loyal Great Pyrenees mix with a fluffy black coat and soulful brown eyes, was rescued from the sweltering heat of Mississippi by compassionate volunteers at Stray Network Dog Rescue. Despite her difficult past, Loki's spirit remained resilient and full of love.

Thanks to the dedication and care of her rescuers, Loki found her forever home with Kim and her family where she was showered with affection and warmth. With her kind demeanor, intelligence, eager-to-please attitude, Loki quickly earned her Therapy Dog Certification in 2023, and joined Tri-State Canine Response Organization in 2023. In 2025, she became a valued member of the elite Crisis Response Team.

Now, as a Pawsitivity Ambassador for Bridge to Balance, Loki uses her gentle presence and soothing energy to offer comfort and support to those in need. Whether she is providing pet-assisted therapy to individuals struggling with mental health issues or simply offering a warm greeting to brighten someone's day, Loki's impact is profound and heartwarming.

At home, Loki is a beloved member of her family, enjoying playful romps with her sister Nala and keeping a watchful eye over her feline brother, Blu. She cherishes the moments spent with her human family members, basking in the love and companionship that surrounds her.

With her big heart and unwavering devotion, Loki brings smiles and joy wherever she goes, spreading love and positivity to all who are lucky enough to cross her path.

Certified by Tri-State Canine Response Team
In Person

Nala

Nala, a beloved Yellow Labrador mix, has a heartwarming story of resilience and love to share. Rescued by the dedicated volunteers at the Stray Network Dog Rescue, Nala formed a strong bond with her adoptive sister Loki from the very beginning. This bond has blossomed into a deep friendship, making Nala and Loki inseparable best friends.

As a Certified Therapy Dog with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Nala brings her sweet spirit to the Pawsitivity Ambassador team at Bridge to Balance. Her graceful demeanor and gentle nature make her a beloved presence among people of all ages. In 2023, she became a member of the Tri-State Canine Response Organization and, in 2026, became a member of the Crisis Response Team.

When she's not working, Nala enjoys playful moments with Loki and their adopted feline brother, Blu. Whether running around the yard or snuggled up for a nap, Nala's days are filled with joy and companionship. Her journey from a rescued puppy to a certified therapy dog is a testament to her loving heart and unwavering spirit.