A small brown dog with a black face lying on a beige blanket on a dark gray sofa, with a decorative beige and white woven throw blanket draped over the back of the sofa.

Hi, I’m Momo.

A certified therapy dog here to support you on your healing journey.

While my human handles the talking, my job in the therapy room is all about presence. I am here to provide unconditional warmth and be a calm anchor during your sessions. I have a knack for sensing when someone needs a little extra comfort, and I take my role as a quiet co-therapist very seriously. I’ll never turn down the opportunity to be with you and provide gentle, loving affection.

I look forward to welcoming you into our space and being a soothing part of your journey.

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How Momo Can Help

Starting therapy can feel intimidating, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Incorporating a certified therapy dog into our work together offers a unique, evidence-based approach to traditional therapy.

Animal-assisted therapy isn't just about enjoying the presence of a friendly animal—it creates real, measurable changes in your mind and body that help you get the most out of your sessions.

Key Benefits of Therapy Dogs in Counseling

1. Instant Stress & Anxiety Reduction

Physical contact with a canine companion triggers a natural relaxation response. Interacting with a therapy dog lowers levels of cortisol (the primary stress hormone) while boosting oxytocin (the hormone responsible for bonding and trust), serotonin, and dopamine. This shift helps slow your heart rate, lower blood pressure, and ease the nervous system into a state of safety.

2. Easing the Path Through Trauma & PTSD

For individuals carrying trauma or severe anxiety, discussing painful memories can trigger a fight-or-flight response. The grounding, non-judgmental presence of a therapy dog provides a soothing anchor in the room. Studies show that incorporating trained dogs into therapeutic interventions helps reduce the intensity of PTSD symptoms and trauma responses, allowing individuals to process difficult emotions safely.

3. Breaking the Ice & Building Trust

Opening up to a new therapist takes vulnerability. Therapy dogs act as natural "social bridges" or icebreakers. Their unconditional acceptance helps lower initial guards, helping you feel safe and comfortable quicker.

4. Combating Isolation & Emotional Fatigue

Depression and emotional distress frequently foster feelings of loneliness. Research demonstrates that interacting with a therapy animal provides an immediate lift in feelings of connection and social warmth which help fight the isolation that often accompanies mental health challenges.

What to Expect in a Session

  • Your Choice, Always: Momo’s participation is completely optional. If you have allergies, phobia, or simply prefer not to interact with Momo, we can discuss non-AAT options.

  • Trained & Certified: Momo has undergone extensive temperament testing and specialized training to handle therapeutic settings calmly and gently.

  • Unconditional Support: Whether resting quietly at your feet while you talk, leaning in for gentle pets, or offering a grounding presence during difficult moments, Momo is there strictly to support your comfort.

Small brown dog with fluffy ears lying on a dark sofa in a well-lit living room, with green plant and lamp in the background.