Burley & Andrew
THERAPY DOGS
Burley and Andy are the heart-warming duo bringing joy to Minded Psychology. These senior gentlemen specialise in providing unconditional love and emotional support.
Whether it's a friendly pat or a lazy wag of the tail as you walk by, Burley and Andy play an important role in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for our clients and are arguably everyone’s favourite colleagues.
In 2014 Burley completed his training in Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT). AAT is a type of therapy that involves animals as a form of treatment and has proven to have a number of benefits for emotional and physical health. Evidence for AAT appears strongest for markers of anxiety and depression but there are a number of other benefits to having animals in therapy. AAT helps to strengthen rapport between practitioner and client; helps to lower blood pressure, anxiety and stress; offers empathetic comfort; assists in emotional regulation; and models healthy relationships and social skills.
Andy’s human Anna is our beautiful Practice Manager, so you will likely see him in reception helping her and our Client Support Team out. Please notify us in advance if you or your child has a dog phobia. This way we can make sure Andy takes a ‘water break’ from lounging in his usual spot by the fireplace, and is out of sight when you arrive at Minded Psychology.