Animal-Assisted Psychotherapy

Workshop Introduction

The goal of animal-assisted intervention is to improve a patient’s social, emotional, or cognitive functioning. Studies have shown positive effects of animal-assisted therapy on physiological measures such as blood pressure and hormone levels. 

The Animal-Assisted Psychotherapy workshop will equip participants with theoretical and practical knowledge of the ethical integration of animals into psychological services.

Drawing from the emerging field of animal-assisted interventions (AAIs), this 90-minute session introduces a continuum-based approach for incorporating animals into therapy, ranging from implicit to instrumental involvement.  

The workshop will critically examine the current evidence base, consider human and animal welfare, and explore cultural and contextual concerns within the South African setting.  

The online workshop integrates ecopsychology, relational ethics, and biophilia theory, and offers clinicians guidance on ensuring best practices in this increasingly utilised therapeutic modality.

Overview

You will explore the following topics:  

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the workshop participants will:  

• Understand the definitions and distinctions between Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAIs) and Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT). 
• Describe a continuum of animal integration in psychological interventions (implicit, explicit, instrumental). 
• Explore how different therapeutic orientations can align with animal-assisted work. 
• Evaluate the current evidence base supporting Animal-Assisted Therapy, acknowledging methodological strengths and limitations. 
• Identify clinical risks and contraindications for Animal-Assisted Therapy and formulate appropriate mitigation strategies. 
• Understand the ethical imperatives for protecting both human and animal welfare in therapeutic settings. 
• Engage with frameworks such as relational ethics, One Welfare, and the IAHAIO guidelines. 
• Recognise the need for culturally relevant Animal-Assisted Therapy practices in the South African context and beyond.  

Certification

This CPD workshop has been designed for psychologists, counsellors and anyone interested in gaining knowledge in animal therapy and animal-assisted interventions. Once you have completed the course, you will receive a digital certificate of completion. 

The certificate serves as evidence of your new skills and knowledge and can be used to demonstrate your commitment to professional development. 

Attend a live online session, or watch the recording, and complete an online reading and assessment. 

HPCSA registered professionals will receive 3 CPD points [3 CEU Continuing Education Units] upon successful completion of the workshop.

Dates and Registration

Class of 2026: on demand

Participants can register at any time and move through the workshop content. Watch the live workshop recording and complete the online journal articles and multiple-choice questionnaire.

NOTE: HPCSA registered professionals who want to claim 3 CPD points [3 CEU Continuing Education Units points] need to complete the online assessment within 5 days after registering.

Workshop Presenter

Dr Sharon Boyce is a licensed counselling psychologist with a PhD in Psychology, specialising in nature- and animal-assisted therapeutic approaches. Her research explores the impact of equine-assisted interventions on flourishing and hope in under-resourced communities. 

Drawing on logotherapy, DBT, narrative, and experiential therapies, she brings a rich, integrative approach to her private practice and international training. A recognised trainer in existential positive psychology, she develops HPCSA-accredited workshops and facilitates nature-based, story-informed learning experiences. 

Known for her accessible, research-informed teaching, Dr Boyce invites practitioners to explore the ethical and relational dimensions of Animal-Assisted Therapy in this evidence-based webinar. 

FAQs

The Team

The SACAP Global team brings a wealth of knowledge and practical experience across various disciplines. Our expert short course developers and dedicated support team are passionate about sharing their insights to help you get the most out of your online learning journey.