How Animal-Assisted Therapy Can Help in Treating Addiction

Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is emerging as a powerful complement to traditional treatment methods for substance use and addiction. By incorporating animals into the therapeutic space, AAT helps enhance mental and physical health in a comforting and effective way.

A significant hurdle when treating substance use disorders is keeping clients engaged and committed to their recovery. Most individuals struggling with addiction face challenges related to trust, boundaries, and social support, all of which can impede a person’s ability to form strong, trusting relationships with mental health professionals, something which is crucial for effective treatment.

Animal-assisted therapy can help bridge this gap by fostering a more supportive environment where clients feel more connected and understood.

The Role of Animals in Therapy

Animal-assisted therapy, a unique form of therapy, involves the use of animals, such as dogs, horses, or even smaller pets, in therapy sessions. These animals provide a calming presence that helps reduce stress and anxiety.

Studies have shown that the mere presence of a therapy animal can lower heart rates and blood pressure, which are common stress indicators (Rosetti & King, 2010). ¹ This calming effect on the individual helps foster a more relaxed atmosphere in therapy sessions, making clients feel at ease and more open to discussion and exploration.

In a typical AAT session, the interaction with the animal is carefully structured to align with the therapeutic goals. For instance, an animal might be used to encourage a client to engage in social interactions, express emotions, or even participate in physical activities. The bond that develops between the client and the animal is a key factor in the therapy’s success, as it provides emotional support and fosters a sense of connection.

Equine-assisted therapy involves using horses and has been particularly effective in improving emotional regulation and promoting self-awareness (Bass et al., 2009). ²

When selecting the right animal for a session, therapists consider factors such as the client’s past experiences with animals, any allergies or fears, and the type of interaction that would most benefit the client’s treatment goals. 

The Effectiveness of AAT in Building Openness and Trust

Recent studies show that AAT improves therapeutic engagement, particularly among populations that might otherwise be difficult to reach, such as adolescents (Shen et al., 2018). ³ Furthermore, simply the presence of an animal can make therapy sessions more enjoyable and less intimidating, increasing feelings of openness (Montolio et al., 2020). ⁴ An animal’s non-judgmental presence can help reduce treatment resistance and foster a greater sense of trust and commitment to the therapeutic process.

Animal-assisted therapy is also highly versatile and can be applied in various settings, including individual therapy, group therapy, and community-based activities. This adaptability makes it a flexible option for many treatment programmes, catering to different age groups and therapeutic needs.

For instance, animals can help facilitate client interactions in group therapy settings, breaking down social barriers and encouraging communication (Becker et al., 2017). ⁵ While dogs and horses are commonly used in these interventions, other animals, such as cats, rabbits, and even birds, can be incorporated into the therapy. The choice of animal often depends on the client’s preferences and specific therapeutic needs.

The Benefits of AAT in the Treatment of Substance Use Disorders

Recent research has highlighted the numerous benefits of AAT for individuals undergoing treatment for substance use disorders. Animal-assisted therapy has been found to significantly reduce feelings of anger, anxiety, and depression. It has also been associated with improving social skills and decreasing feelings of boredom, which can be particularly challenging during recovery.

One study found that clients who participated in AAT experienced lower cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress (Wesley et al., 2009). ⁶ This stress reduction can contribute to a more positive therapeutic experience and better overall mental health, ultimately improving the likelihood of treatment success.

Several randomised controlled trials have explored the use of AAT on patients in in-patient settings. In one of these studies, adolescents in treatment who participated in AAT demonstrated better treatment engagement and lower stress levels compared to those receiving standard care. The use of therapy animals helped participants remain in treatment longer and improved their emotional regulation and social skills (Maujean et al., 2015). ⁷

In another study, participants in an equine-assisted therapy programme reported improvements in emotion regulation, mental well-being, and motivation to engage in the therapeutic process. In addition, these participants were more likely to complete treatment than those who did not participate in equine-assisted therapy (Wesley et al., 2009). ⁶

The findings highlight AAT’s effectiveness in enhancing treatment adherence and emotional well-being, both critical factors in the recovery process.

Unique Benefits for Dual Pathology

For individuals dealing with substance use disorders and mental health issues, AAT offers additional benefits. The therapy provides non-judgmental companionship, which can be particularly valuable for those who struggle with self-esteem or social anxiety.

Therapy animals encourage emotional expression and help reduce stress, which is crucial for individuals who may also be dealing with co-occurring mental health conditions. The multisensory experience of interacting with animals, which combines physical touch, visual engagement, and emotional support, can be incredibly engaging for individuals who have difficulty focusing or managing impulsivity. This can enhance motivation and help clients stay committed to their treatment goals (Montford Montolio & Sancho-Pelluz, 2019; Monfort et al., 2022). ^4,8

Overall, AAT offers a promising approach to treating substance use disorders. By enhancing the therapeutic relationship, providing emotional and physical support, and contributing to overall well-being, AAT represents a valuable addition to traditional treatment approaches. For those struggling with substance abuse, exploring AAT could be a step towards a more supportive, engaged, and effective treatment experience.

References:

1. Rossetti, J., & King, C. (2010). Use of animal-assisted therapy with psychiatric patients: A literature review. Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 48(11), 44-48.
2. Bass, M. M., Duchowny, C. A., & Llabre, M. M. (2009). The effect of therapeutic horseback riding on social functioning in children with autism. Journal of autism and developmental disorders, 39, 1261-1267.
3. Shen, R. Z., Xiong, P., Chou, U. I., & Hall, B. J. (2018). “We need them as much as they need us”: A systematic review of the qualitative evidence for possible mechanisms of effectiveness of animal-assisted intervention (AAI). Complementary therapies in medicine, 41, 203-207.
4. Monfort Montolio, M., & Sancho-Pelluz, J. (2020). Animal-assisted therapy in the residential treatment of dual pathology. International journal of environmental research and public health, 17(1), 120.
5. Becker, J. L., Rogers, E. C., & Burrows, B. (2017). Animal-assisted social skills training for children with autism spectrum disorders. Anthrozoös, 30(2), 307-326.
6. Wesley, M. C., Minatrea, N. B., & Watson, J. C. (2009). Animal-assisted therapy in the treatment of substance dependence. Anthrozoös, 22(2), 137-148.
7. Maujean, A., Pepping, C. A., & Kendall, E. (2015). A systematic review of randomised controlled trials of animal-assisted therapy on psychosocial outcomes. Anthrozoös, 28(1), 23-36.
8. Monfort, M., Benito, A., Haro, G., Fuertes-Saiz, A., Cañabate, M., & Baquero, A. (2022). The efficacy of animal-assisted therapy in patients with dual diagnosis: schizophrenia and addiction. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(11), 6695.