Dr. Pott offers Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT), with the help of her assistant, Duke (cat). AAT is the use of an animal to enhance physical, social, emotional, and cognitive functioning of a client within the context of a therapy session. For example, he might be helpful in building relationship skills, assessing stress levels, and gauging attachment styles and responses. Duke is not a service animal, and may also be brought into therapy for the sole purpose of easing interactions and creating a safe comforting place to be.
Experience the Unique Benefits of Cat-Assisted Therapy
Is Duke Always a Part of Sessions?
No. Duke is invited on a case-by-case basis, often only on Saturdays. Not all clients would benefit from AAT, nor want a cat present due to a variety of issues. Clients who are interested in having Duke present for session can let Dr. Pott know.
He will hiss at you - this is his greeting that he’s developed over time. He is not mad, nor is he going to swat at you. Instead we think this is him saying hi. He will smell you, and he may give you a kiss or lick. Duke is friendly and open to being pet. He is not often a lap cat, but may sit beside you. Often he sits on the desk and watches you throughout the session. As part of AAT you may be invited to play with, pet, groom, or feed Duke with the support of his handler, Dr. Pott.
What Does Duke Do in Session?
What Are the Benefits of AAT?
Contact with a cat can contribute to health benefits and may help with a reduction of stress and mental health concerns. Feline-assisted therapy is also beneficial if individuals are unable to interact with large animals such as horses or dogs, and may provide a stepping stone into AAT.
What are some of the risks of AAT?
As Duke is a cat a large risk is finding out you may be allergic to cats if you were unaware of this before. While Duke is a calm cat, he may get frightened or be disengaged, therefore some risks might be being hissed at or being ignored and the impact this has on a clients emotions.
Duke is up to date with vaccines, is groomed regularly and has his claws cut before each session to ensure no scratching occurs. Additionally, Duke has undergone training to ensure that his temperament is suitable within a counselling context. Most of the time he just sleeps on the computer and watches you during session. He does not jump up on laps. He is a very good cat to be around if you want to address a phobia of cats.
Is Duke safe?
To Book an Appointment