Animal Assisted Therapeutic

Protective Behaviours Program

For children & young people aged 4-17 years, who have experienced Developmental Trauma

  • 10 x 1.5hr sessions

    Body-based regulation activities and mindful presence practice. Including outdoor rhythmic movement activities, nature walk and expressive arts. Development of social and emotional skills via Therapy dog handling and care.

  • Week 1-2

    Journaling ‘All about me’ – Positive identity formation and fostering a sense of belonging. Culture and connection. Validation of experiences.

  • Week 3-4

    Psych Education - Body awareness and understanding of the interplay of bodily responses, thoughts and behaviours.

  • Week 5-6

    Healthy Boundaries - Emotional and physical safety skills. Instinct, recognising unsafe people, cues of safety and danger, asserting self, making choices and consent.

  • Week 7

    Mindful self-compassion – Identifying and expressing needs. Regulating emotions in connection with self and others. Making sense of and processing experiences.

  • Week 8

    Strategies to manage difficult emotions i.e, shame. Healthy ways to discharge anger and impulse control.

  • Week 9-10

    Reinforcement of a healthy narrative. Gratitude practice, recognition of strengths and achievements. Future goals and aspirations.