Animal Assisted Therapeutic
Protective Behaviours Program
For children & young people aged 4-17 years, who have experienced Developmental Trauma
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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.
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Week 1-2
Journaling ‘All about me’ – Positive identity formation and fostering a sense of belonging. Culture and connection. Validation of experiences.
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Week 3-4
Psych Education - Body awareness and understanding of the interplay of bodily responses, thoughts and behaviours.
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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.
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Week 7
Mindful self-compassion – Identifying and expressing needs. Regulating emotions in connection with self and others. Making sense of and processing experiences.
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Week 8
Strategies to manage difficult emotions i.e, shame. Healthy ways to discharge anger and impulse control.
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Week 9-10
Reinforcement of a healthy narrative. Gratitude practice, recognition of strengths and achievements. Future goals and aspirations.