Animal Assisted Play Level 2 Training at Turn About Pegasus

Last week, I spent four days in beautiful Northumberland for the next stage of my training to become a Certified Professional Practitioner in Animal Assisted Play Therapy® (AAPT).

Cassie joined me for the trip, and we met some wonderful people and their dogs along the way. Arlo and Cosmo were her training pals! It was a warm, welcoming group, and the connection between everyone, human and animal, was at the heart of the work.

The training focused on deepening our understanding of the animals’ agency and the importance of their relationship with their owners.

Even something as simple as introducing the dogs to each other was approached with care and sensitivity, always paying attention to how the animals were feeling and what they were communicating.

The best part?

• It was fun!
• The dogs were free to join in or take a break, depending on what they needed.
• We also spent a lot of time outdoors with the horses and the dogs, making the most of the lovely weather and the calm, open space.

It was a brilliant opportunity to connect with other practitioners, share ideas, and reflect on the power of this kind of therapeutic work.

Cassie & Obi

As a result of the training, Cassie will now be able to take on a more active and attuned role in the therapy room. She’ll be supporting sessions in new ways whether that’s through playful interaction or offering calm companionship.

Her involvement will continue to be guided by her comfort and choice, just as it should be.

Although Obi didn’t come along this time, he’s very much a part of this journey too. The knowledge and techniques I’ve brought back will shape how I work with him in sessions as well.

Obi brings his own gentle energy and unique way of connecting with people, and I’m looking forward to supporting him in becoming more involved in therapy in a way that suits his personality and preferences.

My thanks to Tracie and her team for such a wonderful four days.