MUSC Implements Canine-Assisted Group Therapy
In a progressive move toward innovative mental health care, the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) is utilizing canine companions in their group therapy sessions to aid in the healing of trauma and address various other mental health issues.
Canines Enhance Communication and Relationship Skills
The therapy program at MUSC includes dogs such as Grant and Jackson, who serve a purpose beyond their lovable and comforting presence. According to Shannon Fitzgerald, a key part of the therapy team, the purpose of including canines in the sessions is to use these dogs to foster development in areas such as communication, boundary setting, and other relationship skills.
While in the therapy group sessions, individuals are encouraged to use the canines in practical exercises guided by therapists. These exercises may range from engaging in mindfulness practices with the dogs to practicing assertive communication techniques.
Tangible Healing through Canine Interactions
The interaction between patients and therapy dogs has produced tangible results on various occasions. Chip Eggleton, a pet therapist, cites an instance where a stroke patient saw an improvement in hand mobility following the interaction with a therapy dog.
In addition to physical benefits, the presence of dogs in therapy sessions contributes significantly towards bettering mental health status and challenging destructive self-talk. Therapists found that cruel or demeaning things patients sometimes say to themselves, when spoken towards the dog, help individuals realize the impact of their internal dialogue on their well-being.
The Positive Influence of Canines: No Breed Specifics
The therapeutic impact of canines transcends breed boundaries. From Chihuahuas to Great Danes and Bernese Mountain Dogs, Eggleton emphasizes that it’s not the breed but the dog’s disposition that determines its effectiveness in therapy.
Canine Therapeutic Success: A Two-Way Street
The success of the canine-assisted therapy program, as pointed out by Fitzgerald, lies in the mutual growth of both individuals and the dogs. By working triangulatively with the handler, the benefits are maximized, ensuring the dog also gets as much out of the sessions as the patients.
A comprehensive approach to trauma healing and mental health support, MUSC’s group therapy program welcomes those interested in harnessing the power of therapeutic dogs in their recovery process.
For additional information regarding this pioneering approach to therapy, individuals may contact the Medical University of South Carolina at (843) 792-1530 or visit their dedicated webpage at https://muschealth.org/medical-services/psychiatry/revisions.
