What is Animal Assisted Therapy Jobs?
When it comes to helping people with mental or physical disabilities, animals have been known to be an excellent source of support. Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) is a form of therapy that involves animals to help people cope with their disabilities. Animal Assisted Therapy Jobs involve providing support to people with disabilities through animals. These jobs involve working with different animals such as dogs, horses, cats, and birds, depending on the needs of the individual.
What usually do in this position?
Animal Assisted Therapy Jobs involve working with people who have physical or mental disabilities. The job duties include assessing the needs of the individual, selecting the appropriate animal for the therapy, and designing a therapy plan. The specialist then works with the animal and the individual to help them achieve their therapeutic goals. The specialist may also be responsible for training and caring for the animal.
Top 5 Skills for Position
- Excellent communication skills to work with clients and animals
- Empathy and understanding towards people with disabilities
- Patience and compassion to work with animals and clients
- Ability to work in a team and collaborate with other specialists
- Knowledge of animal behavior and welfare
How to become this type of specialist?
To become an Animal Assisted Therapy specialist, one needs to have a degree in psychology, social work, or a related field. A certification in animal-assisted therapy is also required. The certification is provided by different organizations such as Pet Partners, American Humane, and International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. The specialist must also have a good understanding of animal behavior and welfare.
Average Salary
The average salary for an Animal Assisted Therapy specialist varies depending on the location, the type of job, and the level of experience. According to Payscale, the average salary for Animal Assisted Therapy specialists in the United States is $44,000 per year.
Roles and Types
There are different roles and types of Animal Assisted Therapy jobs. Some of the roles include Animal Assisted Therapy specialists, Animal Assisted Activity specialists, and Animal Assisted Education specialists. The types of Animal Assisted Therapy jobs include working in hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
Animal Assisted Therapy jobs are available in different locations in the United States. According to ZipRecruiter, the top five states with the most Animal Assisted Therapy jobs are California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Pennsylvania.
What are the Typical Tools?
Animal Assisted Therapy specialists use different tools to provide therapy to their clients. Some of the typical tools used include leashes, collars, harnesses, and toys for animals. The specialist may also use different therapeutic activities such as grooming, walking, and playing with the animal.
In Conclusion
Animal Assisted Therapy Jobs provide an excellent opportunity to work with animals and help people with disabilities. The job requires excellent communication skills, empathy, patience, and compassion. To become an Animal Assisted Therapy specialist, one needs to have a degree in psychology or social work, and a certification in animal-assisted therapy. The average salary for Animal Assisted Therapy specialists in the United States is $44,000 per year. The specialist can work in different locations such as hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes, and use different tools such as leashes, collars, harnesses, and toys to provide therapy to their clients.