🧪 How Animal-Assisted Therapy Works: The Science Behind Oliver
You’ve probably felt it before — the way your shoulders drop when a friendly dog enters the room, or how petting a dog seems to slow your breathing without you even noticing. This isn’t just “cute” — it’s biology.
At Cinnamon Counselling in Vancouver, clients who work with Aleesa Sutton, RCC are joined by Oliver, their therapy dog, in every session. Oliver’s presence isn’t a gimmick — it’s supported by research showing how animal-assisted therapy can help regulate the body, ease anxiety, and strengthen the therapeutic process.
What Is Animal-Assisted Therapy?
Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is a therapeutic approach where trained animals are incorporated into counselling to support emotional, psychological, and physiological well-being.
In Aleesa’s practice, Oliver is the therapy dog who offers a consistent, calm presence in every session. Unlike a clinical “add-on,” Oliver is part of the therapeutic environment — grounding clients as they do the deeper work of counselling.
The Science of Why Dogs Help
1. Stress Relief Through Biochemistry
Petting a dog has been shown to reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) and increase oxytocin (the bonding hormone). These changes support feelings of safety, trust, and relaxation — making it easier for clients to open up.
2. Nervous System Regulation
Research shows that human–dog interaction can lower blood pressure, slow heart rate, and improve heart rate variability, which reflects resilience to stress. This creates a physiological state where therapy feels safer and more manageable.
3. Emotional Support & Engagement
Therapy dogs also act as nonjudgmental companions, helping clients feel less alone. Studies show that clients in therapy with a dog present report lower anxiety and even greater willingness to engage in difficult conversations.
Frontiers in Psychiatry: Therapy dogs reduce anxiety
PubMed: Animal-assisted interventions and well-being
How Oliver Brings the Science Into the Room
Oliver doesn’t need to do much — his calm presence is often enough to trigger these natural responses in the body.
Clients describe feeling:
More relaxed as sessions begin
Grounded when discussing stressful topics
Comforted by Oliver’s quiet companionship
When paired with Aleesa’s therapeutic approach, Oliver helps create an atmosphere where clients can slow down, regulate, and process emotions more fully.
Is Animal-Assisted Therapy Right for Everyone?
Animal-assisted therapy has wide benefits, but it’s not always the right fit. At Cinnamon Counselling:
Oliver is always part of Aleesa’s sessions
Clients who prefer a dog-free environment can choose another counsellor on our team
👉 Curious about how this feels in practice? Read our companion post: What to Expect in a Therapy Session with Oliver
Animal-assisted therapy is more than a trend — it’s a well-researched, evidence-based way to support clients in counselling. With Oliver in the room, Aleesa’s sessions offer not only professional guidance, but also a steady, nonjudgmental presence that helps clients feel safer, calmer, and more open.
