Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT)

What Is Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT)?

A foundational element therapy at Pasadena Villa’s Stables Autism Program is the interaction with animals and nature. Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) helps improve trust, communication, confidence, boundaries, impulse control, management of emotions, focus and attention, relationship-building, empathy, and self-control. All animal activities are conducted by professionals who have incorporated animals as part of their specialty or by another staff member under their supervision. Additionally, Smoky Mountain Lodge residents also have weekly access to The Stables, our tranquil location offering equine therapy and other forms of animal-assisted therapy.

Benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that consists of a range of difficulties in communication skills, speech, fine or gross motor skills, and intellectual ability. ASD covers a broad scope of symptoms ranging in severity and type.

One of the critical aspects of autism is difficulty with social interaction. Many people with ASD struggle in social settings and their interactions with others. AAT for autism offers recognizable benefits in terms of social behaviors.

Individuals on the spectrum show a noticeable increase in positive behaviors after treatment that an animal accompanies. Alongside animals, they smile, laugh, talk, and participate more. Animals serve as a conversation starter and bridge between them and the people they interact with.

Another great benefit of AAT is the calming effects of animals. Interacting with an animal can relieve stress during situations that might cause an individual to become angry or frustrated. Clinicians have noted many other positive effects, including increased self-confidence, reduced feelings of loneliness, and increased physical fitness, strength, and coordination.