In selected sessions, my therapeutic work may be supported by Winston, my dog, who is a certified therapy dog for animal-assisted and therapeutic interventions. His involvement is always intentional, carefully timed, and adapted to the individual needs of the client — never mandatory and never distracting from the therapeutic process.

Animal-assisted therapy can offer a powerful, non-verbal layer of support, particularly for clients who experience anxiety, emotional overwhelm, difficulties with trust, or challenges in expressing themselves verbally.

Potential therapeutic benefits may include:

• reduction of anxiety and physiological stress responses
• increased emotional regulation and a sense of safety
• strengthening self-efficacy and confidence through interaction and choice
• easier access to emotions and bodily awareness
• support in building trust and relational connection
• grounding and calming effects in moments of emotional intensity

For children and adolescents, working alongside a therapy dog can foster responsibility, attunement, and self-awareness, while offering a relational experience that feels natural and non-threatening. For adults, Winston often supports slowing down, emotional presence, and
reconnection with inner resources.

Winston is never used as a “tool,” but as a relational partner within a systemic framework — always embedded in clear therapeutic goals, ethical standards, and professional boundaries.