Healing Bonds Through Animal-Assisted Therapy
Briefly

Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is increasingly recognized as a beneficial adjunct to traditional treatment methods for eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia. By incorporating animals into the therapeutic process, AAT creates a unique, non-judgmental environment that enhances emotional expression and reflection. This modality effectively alleviates symptoms like anxiety and depression while improving social interactions and self-esteem. Most effective when paired with cognitive behavioral therapy, AAT utilizes the comforting presence of animals, such as dogs and horses, to support individuals throughout their recovery journey.
Animal-assisted therapy promotes a non-judgmental environment that significantly enhances traditional therapies for eating disorders, particularly when combined with CBT.
Interacting with animals has been shown to alleviate symptoms of eating disorders, enhancing social interactions and fostering emotional expression in a calming atmosphere.
Read at Psychology Today
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