Animal-Assisted Speech Therapy

We’re deeply passionate about integrating evidence-based speech pathology with the genuine warmth and companionship provided by animals.

As believers in the power of PAWsitivity, we are proud to be one of the first paediatric speech pathology clinics in Victoria to incorporate animal-assisted interventions.

What is Animal-Assisted Speech Therapy?

Animals are nonjudgmental and patient, which can be invaluable in helping children feel more comfortable, regulated, and willing to engage. That is why our certified practicing speech pathologists incorporate trained therapy dogs and other animals into their therapy sessions.

Research supports the many benefits of animal-assisted therapy, especially for speech and communication development. Some of the key benefits include:

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Improved Verbal Communication

A friendly, furry companion helps children feel relaxed and confident, making it easier to work on speech and language skills.

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Improved Focus & Attention

By lowering stress and helping children self-regulate, animals play a pivotal role in improving focus for children during therapy sessions.

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Social Skill Development

Therapy animals teach key social skills like taking turns and showing empathy, as well as helping us to understand social cues.

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Enhanced Motivation & Acceptance

Knowing they’ll interact with the therapy animal keeps children engaged, excited for and more accepting of therapy.

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Reduced Anxiety

The calming presence of animals can help reduce stress, making therapy more enjoyable and effective for children.

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Stronger Therapeutic Relationships

Children often bond with therapy dogs and other animals, building trust and a positive connection with their speech pathologist.

The Oxytocin Effect

When children interact with animals they like, it can trigger the release of oxytocin – the “feel-good” hormone that helps them relax and feel happy.

This makes it easier for them to focus, build trust, participate in therapy, and hone their communication skills.

As such, this forms the basis of our animal-assisted speech pathology interventions.

Animal-assisted speech therapy is especially beneficial for children who:

• Are late to start talking
• Have trouble pronouncing words clearly
• Struggle with sounds or grammar
• Get frustrated when trying to communicate
• Have difficulty making friends or following social rules
• Find reading, writing, or spelling challenging
• Need support in social settings like school or home.

What Our Therapy Animals Do

As our speech pathologists with therapy dogs will tell you, our furry friends (guinea pigs included!) always work hard when they are in session.

Calming Presence

The therapy animal’s soothing presence helps even the shyest children feel at ease, creating a welcoming and relaxed environment.

Listening Buddy

With attentive, non-judgmental ears, the therapy animals boost children’s confidence as they practice speaking.

Motivation Through Play

Interacting with a therapy animal is a fun reward, encouraging active participation and making therapy enjoyable.

Sensory Support

The therapy animal provides comforting sensory input through gentle touch and play, helping children relax and focus during tasks.

Social Skills & Problem-Solving

Stories about the animal’s adventures become engaging teaching tools, enhancing comprehension and critical thinking.

Playful Partner

Whether role-playing or pretending, the therapy animal adds joy and spontaneity to every session.

Get in touch

Our Process

Not sure if animal-assisted speech therapy is for your child? We can conduct an initial assessment so you can make an informed choice.

It’s also important to note that not all our speech pathologists will use therapy dogs or animals in all of their sessions. You can discuss this further with your speech pathologist during the appointment.

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Step 1: Contact Us

Contact us via our enquiry form. When an appointment is available, we’ll call to discuss your child’s needs and journey so far.

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Step 2: Get An Assessment

Attend an initial appointment to meet your speech pathologist and therapy animal, as well as to get an initial assessment.

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Step 3: Create A Therapy Plan

We’ll create a therapy plan that may include further assessment, a block of intervention, or other activities such as our Therapy Express service or a social group.

Meet Our Pack

Say hello to our certified practicing speech pathologists, trained therapy assistants, amazing administrators and adorable furry friends!

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FAQs

How can a therapy animal help my child with speech therapy?

In animal-assisted speech therapy, a therapy animal offers emotional support, lowers anxiety, and makes the sessions more enjoyable. With a friendly, non-judgmental companion by their side, children often feel more confident communicating during sessions, which can also lead to greater treatment efficiency.

Is animal-assisted speech therapy suitable for all children?

Animal-assisted speech therapy can benefit children of various ages, but our certified practising speech pathologists will carefully assess your child to ensure it’s the right fit for their individual needs.book an appointment with our speech pathologists for a more thorough assessment.

Are animals always used in the therapy sessions?

No, not always. There are many factors that could influence the presence or absence of animals during the therapy sessions, so be sure to inquire with our friendly reception team.

Do I need a referral to access services at The Speech Express?

No, you don’t need a referral to come and see us. We welcome all clients.

How do I get started with animal-assisted speech therapy?

Simply contact us to schedule an initial consultation. We’ll assess your child’s needs and discuss how animal-assisted speech therapy can be incorporated into their therapy plan.