Sarah Urwin - animal assisted therapist
"Positive interactions between people and animals have been suggestive of positive life changes in people physically, emotionally and socially."
Lockwood 1983
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What is Animal Assisted Therapy?
photo of guinea pig There is growing evidence of the therapeutic nature of affiliation or positive interaction with animals in a variety of circumstances - this is often referred to as the human-animal bond or HAB. Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) has grown out of this awareness and is becoming an established new treatment modality. Programmes are chosen for individual clients and designed to achieve specific therapeutic goals. Animals that meet certain criteria are selected by suitably qualified professionals and these become an integral part of the treatment process. Animals and programmes are fully risk assessed, carefully monitored and progress is measured and recorded. Many different types of animal are included in AAT programmes, including fish and birds but at Youngs Farm I work mainly with dogs, cats, chickens, guinea pigs and horses. I follow accepted guidelines to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of all concerned, including the animals. The actual activities involved depend on the treatment programme but might include watching, touching, stroking, grooming, washing, feeding or generally caring for the animal. Other activities might include cleaning out housing, collecting eggs, lead walking dogs or field based activities.

Why Choose Animal Assisted Therapy?photo of Mr Paws
Animal Assisted Therapy aims to promote mental, physical and social well-being. Outcomes of positive interactions between people and animals are likely to include:
  • Development of emotional bonds and relationships built on trust and respect
  • Improved morale, feelings of enhanced well being and self worth
  • Better social interaction, reducing feelings of social isolation
  • Relief from anxiety and stress (slower heart rate and lower blood pressure)
  • Learning new skills - controlling and caring for animals appropriately
Animals are usually direct and honest - unlike humans they are non judgemental, don’t hold grudges, and don’t change the rules or otherwise confuse through verbal communications!

photo of chickens

When can Animal Assisted Therapy help?
Anyone can benefit from this therapy and it is currently being used in a variety of settings in the UK including hospitals, schools, residential settings and private practise. Studies suggest that it is particularly effective for vulnerable people including those with emotional and behavioural problems. Therapists can use AAT to further investigate attachments and relationships, trust and respect, self confidence and self esteem, and social interaction. Research indicates benefits such as focus of interest and positive attention, as well as pleasure in handling animals, particularly where clients are suffering from depression. Time spent stroking and talking to dogs can result in lowering blood pressure, relieving pain, reducing anxiety levels and enhanced mood. Some practitioners have proposed that animals working in a therapeutic context such as counselling or psychotherapy can serve as a clinical bridge, providing an opening for clients to talk about more sensitive issues.

What can I offer you?
I have worked in agriculture, education and care and have experience and qualifications in all these areas. I have always owned pets and other domestic animals, as well as larger farm animals. I have a Diploma in Agriculture and training in Animal Assisted Activities and Therapies through my affiliation with the Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS).


For more information including details of sessions and rates or to contact me please click on the Information and Contact links.
Sarah Urwin Counselling and Therapy Services
Last Updated December, 2009
Web Page by IT Solutions (its@youngsfarm.co.uk)

URL: http://www.sarahurwin.co.uk