Animal-assisted positive psychology in Ballarat
Positive Psychology (or should we say “pawsitive psychology”) grew from a movement focused on understanding and promoting human strengths, well-being, and happiness. Unlike traditional psychology, which often emphasises mental illness and dysfunction, positive psychology explores what makes life fulfilling and meaningful. It examines factors such as gratitude, resilience, optimism, and personal strengths, aiming to enhance individual and collective well-being. The positive psychology movement began with the work of Martin Seligman in the late 1990s, and is an approach now backed by significant scientific research supporting its benefits in therapy. By fostering positive emotions, strong relationships, and a sense of purpose, positive psychology helps individuals and communities thrive and lead more satisfying lives.
Who benefits from positive psychology?
At Barking Mad Company, we feel that going to visit the psychologist isn’t just something you benefit from when you’re already unwell. Just like physical exercise and healthy eating, taking a proactive approach to supporting your mental health is a great way help keep your overall wellbeing in balance. We can incorporate other therapy modalities with positive psychology principles, such as motivational interviewing and reminiscence therapy. Individuals across ages can benefit from this approach to therapy. This approach can especially support elderly individuals to combat loneliness. Working regularly with a psychologist from a positive psychology lens can support you to life a live aligning with your values, help work towards life goals and maintain healthy relationships and coping skills.
Positive mindset therapy with animals
Canine therapy for mental wellbeing can be integrated into positive psychological sessions with us to enhance well-being, boost resilience, and promote positive emotions. Barking Mad Company incorporates therapy dogs and animals into positive psychology sessions in many ways.
- Pet interaction for joy: Engaging with therapy animals (e.g., petting a dog) can increase dopamine and serotonin, promoting happiness.
- Play and laughter therapy: Playing with an animal encourages fun and laughter, fostering positive emotions that counteract stress and anxiety.
- Encouraging optimism: Working with therapy animals can help clients shift their focus from difficulties to positive experiences.
- Teaching mindfulness: Interacting with an animal in the present moment promotes mindfulness, reducing worry about the past or future.
- Developing empathy: Caring for an animal fosters compassion and emotional connection, which can improve interpersonal relationships.
- Fostering social connection: Seeking mental wellness with dogs can help clients, especially those with social anxiety, practice communication in a low-pressure environment.
- Goal setting: Clients can build a sense of purpose by setting small goals (e.g., learning to walk or groom a therapy dog).
- Practicing gratitude: Interacting with an animal can promote gratitude by increasing appreciation for companionship and the present moment.
Be sure to have a look at our other animal therapy services and treatment areas, including phobias and couples and parenting.
