Animal Assisted Therapy and the Benefits for Those on the Autism Spectrum

Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is a therapeutic intervention that can use animals to help individuals with autism improve their social, emotional, and behavioral skills. This type of therapy offers potential benefits for individuals including: Increased social interaction, decreased anxiety, and improved communication skills.

The Role of Animal Assisted Therapy at The Learning Spectrum

Animals have an extraordinary ability to form deep connections with humans, and this bond can be particularly beneficial for individuals with autism. With our licensed Social Workers, we work with Learning 4 Life Farm’s alpacas as part of our animal-assisted therapy program. Studies have shown that interacting with animals can help reduce stress levels, improve self-esteem, and foster a sense of companionship. For individuals with autism, who often struggle with social communication and interaction, interacting with animals can provide a sense of comfort and acceptance.

Potential Challenges of Animal Assisted Therapy

In spite of the many benefits of animal-assisted therapy, it is important to be aware of the potential challenges that may arise. For example, allergies or sensitivities to some animals may present a challenge. A great thing about TLS is that it uses alpacas, and because there is no lanolin in pure alpaca wool, it is hypoallergenic, which means that there is almost no chance of a skin reaction caused by alpaca wool, such as itching, redness and irritation.

An additional challenge is the cost of animal-assisted therapy. Therapy animals often require extensive training, and therapy sessions can be expensive. However, the benefits of animal-assisted therapy often outweigh the costs. The Learning Spectrum charges $150 an hour or $75 for a half hour. It is our goal to offer reasonable prices to our families. We are actively working on integrating other funding sources. At the moment, we are taking private payments and county funding may be available for those who qualify.

Consider Scheduling a Session Today

In conclusion, animal-assisted therapy can provide a valuable and effective intervention for individuals with autism. By interacting with animals, individuals can reap the benefits of decreased anxiety, improved social skills, and increased feelings of companionship. Animal-assisted therapy is not a cure, but it can help individuals with autism navigate their world with greater ease and confidence.

Click here to request more information about TLS’ Animal Assisted Therapy Program