Best Animal Assisted Therapy Podcasts (2024)

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12. Understanding and Reflecting on Projections in Therapy with Children 26:57

3h ago26:57

26:57

Children often project their feelings, both positive and negative, onto others as a way to express emotions they cannot fully articulate. These projections are a normal part of development and can provide valuable insights into a child's inner world. In today’s exploration episode, Brenda shares her findings from her research project on how the chi…

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Training Doctors in Neurodivergent Healthcare, with Dr. Craig Escudé | EDB 326 27:37

1h ago27:37

27:37

Dr. Craig Escudé discusses the importance of training doctors to care for the IDD and neurodivergent communities. Dr. Craig Escudé is a board-certified Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Academy of Developmental Medicine with over 20 years of clinical experience providing medical care for people with intellectual a…

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Mental Health on the Autism Spectrum, with Cheryl Checkers & Dr Christopher Kye | EDB 325 37:40

3d ago37:40

37:40

Cheryl Checkers and Dr. Christopher Kye shares their experience working with autistic patients experiencing mental health challenges. Cheryl Checkers is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Board-Certified Counselor, and Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist who specializes in working with teens and adults on the autism spe…

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11. Recognizing Eye Movement Patterns to Improve Treatment Effectiveness in Equine Assisted Services: Understanding the Initial Encounter 27:23

3d ago27:23

27:23

The first interaction with a horse can be a profound and eye-opening experience. In today’s episode Brenda brings listeners into an exploration of observing the eye contact of the participant during Equine-Assisted Services. These interactions with horses are known for their therapeutic benefits. Brenda provides listeners with strategies to enhance…

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#906 Want to Be a Better Psychiatrist? Enter a Beauty Pageant!

7d ago

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Canadian (Nova Scotia) Psychiatrist Dr. Patricia Celan’s personality type is INFJ-T (Advocate). When she's not working on improving the mental health of her patients or advocating for human and non-human victims of abuse, Patricia enjoys creative writing, photography, film, travel, music, singing, dancing, yoga, and spending time with her cats, fri…

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10. Assessing Eye Contact Cues to Increase Effectiveness of Interventions 22:36

17d ago22:36

22:36

Effective communication is at the heart of successful interactions, whether you are a therapist, teacher, or anyone aiming to improve their relational skills. One often overlooked yet vital aspect of communication is eye contact. Understanding and recognizing eye contact patterns can significantly enhance your ability to connect with others, partic…

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9. Understanding Blink Rates: What Horses Teach Us About Stress and Therapy 19:28

1M ago19:28

19:28

Eye contact is a fundamental aspect of human interaction, conveying emotions, intentions, and levels of engagement. Various studies have explored its significance, revealing how direct gazes can establish trust, convey confidence, and facilitate deeper connections. In today’s episode Brenda continues her discussion on eye contact and how it appears…

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#905 Jungian Lisa Marchiano on Reclaiming Your Outlaw Energies

1M ago

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Lisa Marchiano, LCSW, is a Jungian analyst, author, and podcaster. She is the cohost of the popular depth psychology podcast This Jungian Life. She is on the faculty of the C. G. Jung Institute of Philadelphia, and she lectures and teaches widely. Lisa is the author of Motherhood: Facing and Finding Yourself published by Sounds True in 2021. She li…

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#904 Dr. Alexey Tolchinsky on Narrative Fallacy in Clinical Diagnosis

2M ago

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Alexey Tolchinsky, Psy.D. is a clinical psychologist in private practice in Maryland. He specializes in trauma work and anxiety disorders. He works in psychotherapy with neurodiverse patients, including individuals with Asperger’s disorder, dyslexia, and other conditions. A part of his practice includes working with immigrants struggling with adapt…

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Understanding Epilepsy, with Anna Diaz & Luis Martinez of Epilepsy Alliance Florida | EDB 324 28:38

2M ago28:38

28:38

Epilepsy Alliance Florida’s Anna Diaz & Luis Martinez share facts about seizure disorders, and how the Alliance is working to increase awareness and support.Anna Diaz is a Social Service Aide for the Epilepsy Alliance Florida (EAF), and is herself an epilepsy self-advocate. Luis Martinez is a Community Resource Specialist for EAF. Established in 19…

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Burnout Busters and Taking a Break 20:38

2M ago20:38

20:38

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, Gina delves into the nuances of prioritizing work and family life in the realm of occupational therapy. With a focus on avoiding burnout, she explores strategies for balancing competing priorities, from client care to personal obligations. Through insightful anecdotes and practical advice, Gina guides listen…

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8. Connecting Through Eye Contact: Play Therapy Interventions for Better Eye Contact 26:46

2M ago26:46

26:46

Eye contact plays a crucial role in communication and mental health. It can build connections, enhance understanding, and foster trust. However, making eye contact can be challenging for some individuals. In today’s episode, Brenda explores the importance of eye contact in therapy and shares practical interventions to help increase eye contact, dra…

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#903 UK Prof Brett Kahr Celebrated Psychoanalysis Historian Returns

2M ago

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Professor Brett Kahr has worked in the mental health profession for well over forty years.He is Senior Fellow at the Tavistock Institute of Medical Psychology in London and, also, Visiting Professor of Psychoanalysis and Mental Health at Regent’s University London.Kahr is the Chair of the Scholars Committee of the British Psychoanalytic Council, an…

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Turning Passion into Profit: Animals, Aquatics, and OT Side Hustles 21:02

2M ago21:02

21:02

Send us a Text Message. Looking to turn your passion for animals, aquatics, and nature-based therapy into a thriving side hustle? Join us on "Animals and Aquatics" as we delve into the essential steps for occupational therapy providers (OTPs) looking to incorporate these elements into their practice. From gaining experience and obtaining certificat…

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Horse Sense: Evaluating Equine Partners for Therapy 21:14

2M ago21:14

21:14

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of "Animals & Aquatics in Occupational Therapy," our host explores the intricate process of assessing horses for therapy work. From evaluating conformation and movement to gauging temperament and soundness, every aspect is carefully considered to ensure the suitability of the horse for occupational therapy pr…

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9Muses: Supporting Mental Health Through Art & Peer Support, with Nicole Storrs | EDB 323 32:40

2M ago32:40

32:40

9Muses Art Center’s Nicole Storrs shares how their drop-in center is helping people with mental health challenges. 9Muses Art Center is a drop-in center located in Fort Lauderdale, FL. They are a program of Mental Health America of Southeast Florida providing free peer-driven behavioral health support to adults with mental health and substance abus…

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#902 UK Shaman Paul Francis Shares His Story

2M ago

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Paul Francis studied philosophy and social anthropology at university, primarily studying tribal (animist) cultures. After graduating in 1979, he variously worked in a hospital teaching sign language, a pre-school nursery, and in an anarchist bookshop. In his spare time, he immersed himself in his real passions, exploring psychotherapy and various …

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7. Unlocking the Importance of Eye Contact in Mental Health 25:48

3M ago25:48

25:48

Most of us would agree that eye contact is important. It's a fundamental aspect of communication, a silent language that conveys understanding, empathy, and connection. But how often do we truly think about its significance beyond the surface level? In today’s episode Brenda shines a spotlight on the often underestimated yet crucial element of huma…

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Learning Curves: The Top 5 Mistakes We Made in Our Occupational Therapy Practice 19:30

3M ago19:30

19:30

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Animals and Aquatics, Gina reflects on the mistakes made in their occupational therapy practice. Joined by her husband, they share insights into common pitfalls such as spreading themselves too thin, failing to set clear boundaries, and reinventing systems unnecessarily. They discuss the importance of prio…

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#901 Psychologist David StonePhD and psychiatrist Dr. Matt Keene MD on the psychological value of playing board games 42:27

2M ago42:27

42:27

BiosMatthew S. Keene, MD (Director)Dr. Keene is a physician, entrepreneur, and business leader. Dr. Keene attended Georgetown University School of Medicine on a full military scholarship and graduated with multiple honors. He received his residency training at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Upon completing his residency, Dr. Keene ser…

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#900 Economist and author Loretta Napoleoni on Techno-Capitalism

3M ago

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:LORETTA NAPOLEONI A Fulbright scholar at Johns Hopkins University and the London School of Economics, in the early 1980s she began her professional career as an economist in Hungary, Russia and the city of London. In the mid-90s, when she was one of the people chosen by the Red Brigades to relate their story, she began analyzing te…

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Strengths-Based Programming in Occupational Therapy 21:27

3M ago21:27

21:27

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of "Animals & Aquatics," host Gina wraps up Occupational Therapy Month with reflections on the month's journey and plans for what's next. She delves into strengths-based programming, exploring its impact on both clients and teams, while sharing strategies for effective therapy. Gina also discusses the transit…

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6. Navigating Life's Stages: Intervening with Projections Through Erikson's Developmental Model 46:40

3M ago46:40

46:40

In life we often find ourselves facing projections—visions of our future selves, our desires, fears, and aspirations. These projections can guide our actions and decisions, but they can also hinder our growth if left unexamined. Understanding and intervening with these projections is key to navigating the complexities of life's various stages. In t…

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#889 Will Van Derveer MD on the future of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy

3M ago

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BioWill Van Derveer, MD is co-founder of the Integrative Psychiatry Institute, which offers comprehensive training for mental health professionals in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and other continuing education programs. He is medical director of Integrative Psychiatry Center of Boulder, CO, providing integrative psychiatry for a broad range o…

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Building Student Confidence: How the OTPF Enhances Fieldwork Experience 21:37

3M ago21:37

21:37

Send us a Text Message. Join host Gina as she delves into the world of occupational therapy education, focusing on the crucial role of the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (OTPF) in student fieldwork experiences. Learn how the OTPF can empower students to navigate the transition from academia to clinical practice with confidence and competen…

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OT Interventions Made Easy: Using OTPF 24:55

3M ago24:55

24:55

Send us a Text Message. Welcome to Occupational Therapy Month! This week our podcast episode all about occupational therapy interventions! We'll be discussing practical tips and strategies for success, including how to use the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (OTPF-4) in your everyday practice. Join us as we break down complex ideas into eas…

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#888 Psychiatrist James Champion D.O. on Medical School Adventures

3M ago

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James Champion D.O. is a psychiatrist practicing in Appalachia. He supervises psychiatry residents, teaches medical students, and collaborates with nurse practitioners. He has a D.O. degree from an Appalachian medical school and lives in Tennessee. Adventures of an American Medical Student, a novel, is his first book.Sign up for 10% off of Shrink R…

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#887 Dr. Heather Sandison on On Improving Brain Health

3M ago

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Dr. Heather Sandison is a renowned naturopathic doctor specializing in neurocognitive medicine and the founder of Solcere Health Clinic, San Diego’s premier brain optimization clinic, and Marama, the first residential memory care facility to have the goal of returning cognitively declined residents to independent living. She has dedicated her caree…

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5. Understanding Positive Projections: A Guide to Identifying and Addressing Them in Therapy for Adults 36:27

4M ago36:27

36:27

In today's episode, Brenda delves into the concept of projections. Projections, both positive and negative, play a significant role in our interactions, shaping our perceptions and relationships. Brenda guides listeners through the process of identifying positive projections, offering concrete examples and practical insights to integrate into your …

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NAMI: Empowering People Living With Mental Illness, featuring Katherine Murphy | EDB 322 26:10

3M ago26:10

26:10

Katherine Murphy, CEO of NAMI Palm Beach County, share how the alliance is helping people with mental health challenges in South Florida and throughout the nation. NAMI Palm Beach County is an affiliate of NAMI - THE national Alliance on Mental Illness. From their website: “NAMI PBC is an organization dedicated to providing support, education and a…

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OTPF in Action: Crafting Your Occupational Therapy Evaluation Framework 22:20

4M ago22:20

22:20

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Animals and Aquatics, Gina delves into the intricacies of utilizing the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (OTPF) in the evaluation process. She highlights the significance of understanding the OTPF's components and discusses its applicability in various occupational therapy niches, including nature-b…

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43: Healthy Relationships in Midlife & Beyond 42:57

4M ago42:57

42:57

We’re back in the studio with renowned psychologist, and best selling author, Dr. Brenda Shaeffer. This time Dr. Brenda walks us through the most common themes she sees in long term relationships, the importance of “finishing the grief” when faced with losing a relationship, and considerations for being single in midlife and beyond. Dr. Schaeffer i…

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Hippotherapy and Everyday Living: Enhancing ADLs 21:43

4M ago21:43

21:43

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, Gina celebrates April as Occupational Therapy Month by delving into the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (OTPF) and its application in the unique area of hippotherapy. She explores how hippotherapy promotes the development of activities of daily living (ADLs) and discuss the importance of utilizing eq…

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David Borkenhagen PhD on time, space and Jungian architecture

4M ago

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Bio:David Borkenhagen is a Post Doctoral Fellow at the Mathison Centre for Mental Health where he researches community-based interventions for mental health. He completed his PhD in Psychology at the University of Waterloo under the supervision of Dr. Colin Ellard and holds a Bachelors in Neuroscience from McGill University. He uses the methods of …

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4. Insights from Research: Exploring Human-Animal Behavior 38:38

4M ago38:38

38:38

In today’s episode, Brenda offers listeners a deeper insight into her research study, focusing on the behaviors she observed and scored, as well as the hypotheses she formulated and their unexpected outcomes. Listen in as she guides listeners through an overview of the behaviors and how she specifically chose them to be represented in her study. He…

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#885 Stephen Whiteside PhD on A Parent’s Guide to Treating Childhood Anxiety and OCD

4M ago

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BioStephen P. H. Whiteside, Ph.D. is a Board-Certified Clinical Psychologist, Professor of Psychology in the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, and Director of the Pediatric Anxiety Disorders Program at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. He received a BA in Psychology from Northwestern University and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the Unive…

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Fusion Academy: Success Through One-On-One Education, with Tainah Georges | EDB 321 18:04

4M ago18:04

18:04

Fusion Academy’s Tainah Georges explains how they use a one-student-to-one-teacher model that allows students to achieve academically. Fusion describes itself as: “the world's most personalized middle and high school, with 1-to-1 classes that match your student's pace and preferences, so they can learn better, dive deeper, and never get left behind…

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From Flyers to Facebook: Lessons in Therapy Marketing 23:26

4M ago23:26

23:26

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of "Animals and Aquatics in OT," host Gina explores effective marketing strategies for unique private practices incorporating hippotherapy or aquatics. Reflecting on recent conferences attended and the significance of marketing, Gina discusses the concept of brand storytelling, emphasizing values and mission …

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The Continuing Education Buffet: A Therapist's Perspective 22:23

4M ago22:23

22:23

Send us a Text Message. Join Gina and Ryan, an OT couple, in their podcast "Animals and Aquatics" as they delve into the world of continuing education. From workshops to conferences, they explore the importance of expanding one's horizons and stepping outside of comfort zones. With a mix of personal experiences and professional insights, they discu…

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How Therapy Animals Help, with the Canine Assisted Therapy team | EDB 320 23:01

4M ago23:01

23:01

Canine Assisted Therapy’s Courtney Trzcinski, Laura Rogers, and Gracie share what therapy animals do, and how they positively impact those with social and health challenges. Canine Assisted Therapy, Inc. is a pet therapy organization located in Broward County, Florida. Their mission is to improve the health and well-being of people in need through …

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3. Exploring Attachment Theory: Understanding the Influence of Assessments and Human-Animal Connections 31:34

4M ago31:34

31:34

In today’s episode Brenda delves deeper into the setup of her study, shedding light on the profound influence of attachment theory and how it shaped her research. Join her as she uncovers the intricacies of two influential assessments in the field of attachment theory and explores their impact on her research study. Brenda begins by discussing the …

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42: Understanding Transgender Identity 37:33

4M ago37:33

37:33

Do you want to better understand what it means to be transgender, and how you might provide gender-affirming care? Today we’re talking with someone who knows a lot about it, annnd just happens to be transgender! Nik is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), co-owner of group therapy practice and crisis intervention service in California. In…

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Aquatic OT or Adaptive Swim Lessons? 9:27

4M ago9:27

9:27

Send us a Text Message. Swim Skills or Therapy? Understanding the Differences In this episode of "Animals and Aquatic," host Ryan, a certified occupational therapy assistant, delves into the similarities and differences between aquatic occupational therapy (OT) and adaptive swim lessons. Ryan discusses the unique goals, interventions, and documenta…

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#884 Psychiatrist Arash Javanbakht MD on Harnessing Fear and Anxiety

4M ago

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Dr. Javanbakht is a psychiatrist and neuroscientist, founder and director of the Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic (STARC), a renowned research clinic at Wayne State University School of Medicine.He researches the neurobiology of stress, anxiety, and PTSD in Syrian and Ukrainian refugees, and first responders, as well as emerging treatmen…

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Project S.A.L.T.: Creating Self-Advocate Leaders with Shelly Baer & Jairo Arana | EDB 319 27:59

4M ago27:59

27:59

University of Miami’s Shelly Baer & Jairo Arana discuss their Self-Advocate Leadership Training (SALT) program.Shelly Baer is a licensed clinical social worker, disability self-advocate, and the director of leadership training initiatives at the University of Miami School of Medicine’s Mailman Center for Child Development. Jairo Arana is a clinical…

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Making Waves at Conferences: A Guide for Occupational Therapists in Animal and Aquatic Therapy 22:22

5M ago22:22

22:22

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of the Animals and Aquatics in OT podcast, host Gina delves into the world of professional conferences in occupational therapy. She shares her insights on the importance of attending conferences, strategies for maximizing the conference experience, and tips for balancing conference attendance with other profe…

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2. Animal Assisted Therapy: Overview of a Research Study and Its Fundamentals 25:51

5M ago25:51

25:51

In today’s episode Brenda provides listeners with an insightful overview of her research project. She introduces the comprehensive journey through her own research beginning with the foundational aspects and progressing through the details of attachment theory, animal-assisted therapy, and the biological framework of empathy. Brenda provides listen…

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The Occupation-Based Phase: Navigating the Transition into Practice 24:00

5M ago24:00

24:00

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of the Animals and Aquatics podcast, host Gina delves into the occupation-based phase of occupational therapy (OT) practice in niche areas like animal-assisted and aquatic interventions. With a focus on practical insights and expert advice, Gina discusses the three key priorities during this phase: testing sy…

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Neurodiversity Self-Advocate Spotlight: Zachary Tovin's Autism Journey | EDB 318 18:28

5M ago18:28

18:28

Zachary Tovin shares his perspective on being an autism self-advocate. Zach is on the Autism Spectrum and grew up in South Florida. After high school, he attended the Horizons School in Birmingham, Alabama, where he studied and honed the skills he would need to live and work independently. In 2019, Zach graduated from ARC Broward Culinary Arts prog…

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Purposeful Preparation: Steps for Success in Animal-Assisted and Aquatic Therapy 27:31

5M ago27:31

27:31

Send us a Text Message. Join Gina on Animals and Aquatics as she explores purposeful steps for occupational therapists and assistants interested in animal-assisted and aquatic therapy. From establishing legal foundations to crafting exceptional client experiences, Gina provides practical advice for navigating the unique challenges of these specialt…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Animal Assisted Therapy Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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