COURSE CURRICULUM

This qualification provides a comprehensive understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of working with animals in mental health settings through Animal Assisted Services. Students explore philosophical, ethical, legal, and scientific frameworks that underpin the use of animals in counselling and psychotherapy across various contexts and species. The course develops skills in observing, selecting, training, and assessing animals to ensure their welfare is protected, while also teaching when it may be inappropriate to include animals or clients in sessions. Learners refine their knowledge of both established and innovative approaches to integrating animals into therapeutic practice, with a strong emphasis on maintaining high standards of animal wellbeing. Core modules cover areas such as companion and working animal regulations, animal training and behaviour, and the practical application of animal assisted counselling and psychotherapy. Students also examine how humans, animals, and the environment interact within therapeutic contexts, promoting a balanced and ethical approach. The Research Process module builds understanding of research methods and critical evaluation. For MSc students, a postgraduate dissertation offers the opportunity to investigate a chosen topic in depth under academic supervision. Overall, the program equips students with the expertise needed to deliver safe, ethical, and effective animal assisted interventions in mental health care.