23/01/2026
In Case You Didn’t Know… I’m Officially the Crazy Dog Lady (And It’s Great for Therapy!)
If you’ve been to my clinic, you’ve probably already met the four-legged members of the team. Yes, I’m that person — the one who brings her dogs to work, talks to them like they’re coworkers, and occasionally has to remind them (gently) that not everyone needs to be sniffed. And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Each of my dogs loves coming to work. They trot in like they own the place, settle in reception, and instinctively know when to keep to themselves or when to offer a cuddle in the therapy room. They’re reasonably well-trained, but more importantly, they’re deeply attuned to human emotion. That’s their superpower.
Over the years, I’ve watched as countless patients have reached out for a pat, a cuddle, or just a quiet moment with a warm, breathing presence beside them. Sometimes, no words are needed. There’s just the gentle companionship of a dog and the soft sigh of comfort it brings.
In fact, I’ve even prescribed a dog to a few patients — because the benefits can be life-changing.
Why Dogs Belong in the Therapy Room
1. They reduce stress and anxiety.
There’s solid science behind the calming effect of stroking a dog. It lowers cortisol levels and boosts oxytocin — the love hormone. In a therapy setting, this can help patients feel safer, grounded, and more open.
2. They offer silent support.
Sometimes, the hardest moments in therapy are the ones where silence hangs heavy. A dog’s quiet presence fills that space without pressure. A nuzzle, a tail thump, a shared breath — it’s enough.
3. They encourage connection.
Having a dog can be a beautiful icebreaker. It opens doors to conversations, walks, beach trips, and spontaneous meetups with other dog people (which is how I’ve made many of my own friends over the years).
4. They provide comfort without judgment.
Dogs don’t care what you’ve done, what you’re feeling, or how messy your life might seem. They’re just there — soft, loyal, and always on your side.
Therapy Dogs and PTSD
For patients navigating trauma or PTSD, dogs can play a unique role. They anchor you in the present. They remind you it’s safe to let your guard down, even for just a moment. And they can be a bridge — between isolation and connection, between fear and healing.
While not every dog is suited to this work, the right dog, in the right environment, can become an unspoken part of the therapeutic alliance. Mine certainly have.
So yes — I’m proudly the crazy dog lady. But if you’ve ever felt the comfort of a warm head resting in your lap during a hard session, you’ll understand why. It’s not just about dogs being cute. It’s about creating a space that feels safe, human, and real.
And if that space includes a bit of fur and the occasional paw on your knee? Even better.