HONESDALE, PA — You could call it puppy love, but it’s so much more. According to UCLA Health (www.uclahealth.org), for most people just the presence of an animal prompts a release of serotonin, prolactin and oxytocin. These hormones can lower symptoms of depression and sadness, helping support good mental health.

With this knowledge and a desire to offer another modality of psychotherapy for his clients, Neil Petrosky from the Honesdale Behavioral Health Center recently became certified as an animal-assisted therapy interventionalist (AAT-I). 

He can be seen accompanied by his certified therapy dog, Willow, a three-year-old miniature labradoodle, on his commute to the office.

Petrosky stressed that AAT is not a standalone treatment and described Willow as a co-therapist during sessions that include individual and group therapy. He explained how AAT focuses on the well-being of the client, ethical treatment of animals and physical health.

“An individual must consent to having Willow present for the session,” he said. “Willow also decides her level of participation.  She may be open to interacting but at times may just want to observe.” 

Additionally, all clients are screened prior to meeting Willow to identify any health conditions that may be compromised by being in close proximity to a dog.

Petrosky went on to say that ATT is “beneficial as it gives the opportunity to build a therapeutic relationship with the therapist and Willow, leading to ‘in the moment’ insight for the client.” 

Willow also provides unconditional acceptance, emotional support and physical comfort. “They love her at group therapy. Everyone takes turns hugging and petting her.” This is significant because it adds the healing connection of touch—something a traditional therapist cannot provide.

Honesdale Behavioral Health program director Julie Pacheco had nothing but praise for the furry, four-legged employee. Willow, she said, “suffers from extreme cuteness.” She applauded Petrosky for pursuing ATT and for his time and dedication to the lengthy process required to getting Willow certified.

“Willow brings lots of joy and healing to both the patients and staff in the office,” she added.

Honesdale Behavioral Health Center is part of Wayne Memorial Community Health Centers (WMCHC). For information on all of WMCHC’s services, visit www.wmchc.net.