*Breaking the ice: Animals can help build rapport between a client and therapist, and reduce resistance to therapy.

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*Hormone release: Petting an animal releases hormones like serotonin, oxytocin, and prolactin, which can help reduce stress and anxiety, and improve mood.

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*Comfort and distraction: Animals can provide comfort and a distraction from challenging times.

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*Mental stimulation: Animals can help with mental stimulation, and can help clients with dementia recall memories.

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*Social skills: Animals can help clients enhance their social skills and self-confidence.

 

*Insight: Animal Assisted Interventions can help clients gain insight into their thoughts, emotions, and behavior patterns.

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These techniques  can be used to treat a variety of mental health conditions, including:

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 Stress, Anxiety, and PTSD, Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Autism, and  Depression.