Hartpury University has launched a new postgraduate course, designed for qualified psychologists and counsellors looking to incorporate Animal Assisted Services (AAS) within their practice.
The MSc degree or Postgraduate Diploma in Animal Assisted Counselling and Psychotherapy are both available to study over one year full-time with part-time options available.
The degree/diploma will allow psychologists and counsellors to navigate the complex interface between practice, ethics, legality, and research incorporated within a One Health, One Welfare approach.
The programme’s specialist modules will equip graduates with the latest knowledge of practical animal selection and training, alongside specialist knowledge on the interaction, benefits, limitations and ethical consideration necessary to practice animal assisted counselling successfully. A dissertation will also allow for specific research into an area of interest, in relation to animal assisted counselling or psychotherapy, under the guidance of one of the university’s expert academic team.
Dr Clare Thomas-Pino, Programme Manager and Senior Lecturer in Human-Animal Interaction at Hartpury University said: “This exciting postgraduate degree will enable qualified mental health practitioners to add to their existing skills, ensuring they take advantage of and deliver the most effective AAS that not only benefits the people they work with, but also prioritises animal welfare and wellbeing.
“Ultimately, this degree will be a driver in enacting positive change within AAS to ensure humans benefit, animal welfare is not compromised, as well as recognising when including animals or clients within sessions may be inappropriate or require amendment.”
The course is based on best practice and ethical guidelines from industry leaders such as AAAIP/Pet Partners, Path International, HETI, IAHAIO and SCAS.
Only qualified and practicing mental health counsellors and psychotherapists (BPS or BACP Level 5 accredited or equivalent), with one year of practice and experience of supervision, or international-equivalent qualifications and practice, can apply.
