Animal-Assisted Interventions

HIGHTS incorporates certified therapy dogs and therapy dogs in-training into a variety of diverse youth services. HIGHTS’ AAI program provides an opportunity for children and adolescents to work with certified handler-dogs teams to promote mental and physical health, develop self- and social-awareness, and support their individual needs as they navigate the world around them. Within this model, HIGHTS staff integrate trained therapy dogs to complement evidence-based treatment (EBT) and community-based support services across settings including school, community, and local workforce initiatives to promote therapeutic outcomes and improve the general well-being of children, adolescents, and young adults in WNC. The AAI Program also provides preventative and crisis response services to support our most vulnerable populations.

Current AAI services include:

• Individual Psychotherapy

• Group Therapy

• Family Therapy

• Recreational Therapy

• Student Workshops

• Substance Use Awareness & Prevention

• Afterschool Programs

• School Support & Crisis Response

HIGHTS’ Dogs go through extensive training to become Certified Therapy Dogs. Most dogs are rescues and trained to have a purpose.