Find Training & Certification

Animal Therapies Ltd (ATL) aims to advance the understanding, acceptance, and accessibility of animal-assisted services. As such, we provide the public with information on relevant services and training both nationally and internationally. Although all ATL registered service providers agree to abide by our Code of Ethics, presently, we are unable to actively monitor this requirement and, therefore, no specific recommendations can be made regarding the suitability of advertised services or courses. It is, instead, the responsibility of the individual to complete their own research when choosing a service provider to ensure that the training methods used meet their expectations.   

ATL acknowledges animals are sentient beings that are capable of feeling positive and negative emotional states that matter to them. These include pleasure, happiness, fear and anxiety.

ATL advocates the use of the ‘Five Domains’ model (Mellor et al. 2020) as a framework to inform all of the aspects of animal management, and not only their training. Animals should have a positive welfare state and a ‘life worth living’ and not simply the absence of negative welfare states. This model also affirms that both physical and mental health are important to welfare.

ATL believes the needs of the animals working in the sector must not be compromised by meeting the needs of people. Where there is a conflict then the needs of the animal must have equal weight to humans and it is our moral responsibility to ensure their welfare at all times.

Please click on the following links to review ATL Code of Conduct and Position Statement on Training Methods – Canine

The following helpful documents can also be downloaded through these links Animals In Schools and Canine-Assisted Social Work Guidelines

Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) Training - 15 Day Immersion

Training Organisation: The Equine Psychotherapy Institute

Location: VIC

Course Overview: EAL is a unique approach to experiential learning, where clients are offered safe experiences with horses for the purpose of learning social-emotional skills, personal development, and professional development skills. Once a year, we offer a 3-week, consecutive “block” training in Mount Prospect, VIC – our immersion training! This suits international students and national students who need to fly in, train, and fly home.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: In-class

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) Training - 15 Day Immersion

Training Organisation: The Equine Psychotherapy Institute

Location: VIC

Course Overview: EAP is an innovative approach to clinical practice and psychotherapy where clients are invited into safe relational experiences with horses to address therapeutic goals. Once a year, we offer a 3-week, In-Person Immersion Training in Mount Prospect, VIC. This suits international students and national students who need to fly in, train, and fly home. This includes training from Monday to Friday each week, for three consecutive weeks, with weekends off in between for integration and processing.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: In-class

Online Training in Animal Assisted Psychotherapy & Animal Assisted Learning

Training Organisation: The Equine Psychotherapy Institute

Location: International

Course Overview: This unique training is available for both Australian and English-speaking International students. This program offers an engaging and accessible online format over 40 classes/weeks, perfect for those fitting their study in around work, family and other commitments. Contact us by email or via our website to register or for further details.

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: Online

Online Training in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy & Equine Assisted LEar

Training Organisation: The Equine Psychotherapy Institute

Location: International

Course Overview: This unique training is available for both Australian and English-speaking International students. This program incorporates our successful Foundation 15-day intensive EAP/ EAL Training Program and offers an engaging and accessible online format over 40 weeks, perfect for those fitting their study in around work, family and other commitments. Register via our website or contact by email for details.

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: Online

Working with Trauma in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy & Equine Assisted Learning

Training Organisation: The Equine Psychotherapy Institute

Location: VIC

Course Overview: This training is a specialist, advanced training in understanding and working with clients with Trauma, in the context of EAP and EAL practice. It will teach you a best practice, 3 Stage Trauma Model that covers the core principles of safe and effective trauma practice, supporting survivors of acute and complex trauma. Register or find more information via our website.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: In-class

One Day Introduction to Animal Assisted Therapy

Training Organisation: The Equine Psychotherapy Institute

Location: VIC

Course Overview: Our Introduction to Animal Assisted Therapy is a professional development workshop open to mental health practitioners, referral agencies, and animal lovers interested in animal assisted practice. This 1-day workshop will introduce you to the innovative and ever- growing field of Animal Assisted Psychotherapy (AAP) and Animal Assisted Learning (AAL), specifically through the lens of the AWARE Therapy Model™ created by Meg Kirby. Register by email or via our website.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: In-class

One Day Introduction to Equine Assisted Therapy

Training Organisation: The Equine Psychotherapy Institute

Location: National

Course Overview: Our Introduction to Equine Therapy is a professional development workshop open to mental health practitioners, referral agencies, and horse-people interested in equine assisted practice. This 1-day workshop will introduce you to the innovative field of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) that emerged out of the broader field of Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) in the 1990’s. Register by emailing admin@equinepsychotherapy.net.a or via our website.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: In-class

Professional 4 Day F2F Therapy Dog Team Training and Certification Course

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs NSW

Location: NSW

Course Overview: BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND....Our Professional 4 Day F2F Therapy Dog Team Course is taylored for Social Workers, Psychologists, Counsellors, OT's, Physio's, Teachers, Doctors and all professionals interested in training their own dog and certify as a Canine Assisted Therapy Team. Enjoy 4 days of bonding and training in Tamworth NSW. Our course is mapped to ATL standards of training and handling and is delivered by experienced staff with certificates in dog training and adult education.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: In-class

Professional Therapy Dog Team Accreditation

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs NSW

Location: National

Course Overview: Are you interested in training as a Therapy Dog Team in 2024? Therapy Dogs NSW would like to give you a Christmas gift. $1000 off our course. If you sign up and pay before 28 Feburary 2024, you have 6 month to complete the course at your pace. The course is 7 units ranging from behaviour training to building a bond with your co-therapist and much more, approx 60 hours of study, our course is based on ATL Standards. Therapy Dogs NSW, where your dog is our #1.

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: Blended

Therapy dog and handler certification

Training Organisation: Laura Mundy Therapy Dogs

Location: VIC

Course Overview: Therapy dog and handler team certification course. Our short course for professional and volunteer handlers and their dogs is aimed at training both ends of the leash in how to work safely and ethically as a therapy dog handler. We use positive reinforcement methods of training and have a strong focus on ethics and welfare for our canine companions. Based in the Western suburbs of Melbourne there are options for in person and blended delivery.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Blended

Professional Canine Assisted Therapy Certification

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs NSW

Location:

Course Overview: Therapy Dogs NSW, is a leader in the field of Canine Assisted Therapy team training and accreditation. Our courses are mapped to ATL's Code of Conduct and Ethics. Karen is a certified Trainer and Assessor, AMHSW (Masters) in private practice with her therapy dog Tilly and a NDTF certified +R dog trainer. Our course offers blended delivery of online, F2F and zoom, includes 50 hours of rich content that focus' on your dogs wellbeing and working as a team. For dogs or puppies, with ongoing support.

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: Blended

Equine Interaction Experience Practitioner Training

Training Organisation: Equine Experience International

Location: National

Course Overview: The Equine Interaction Experience Practitioner (EIEP) 4-month training offers specialist education and tailored facilitation from world-class guest presenters from around the globe, as well as an integrated practical component to further develop your knowledge and skills in the field of equine assisted interactions (EAL / EAT) through an experiential and nature-based approach with a trauma-sensitive and neuroscience-informed lens.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Blended

Clinical Supervision Animal/Paediatric/Neurodiversity

Training Organisation: Sarah Munn - Barefoot Therapists

Location: National

Course Overview: Clinical supervision provided focusing on use of the farm environment and animals including horses. Sarah has a special interest in autism being a neurodiverse OT herself with 2 children with autism, ADHD and one has down syndrome. 10 years in the AAT sector and nearly 30 years as a paediatric OT, Sarah can also provide mentoring on setting up your own practice. Sarah runs her own Child & Family Clinic and a Therapeutic Farm with 20 staff. Individual and team supervision available.

Course Level: Supervision

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Study Method: Online

Advanced Animal Assisted Therapy for Registered Therapists

Training Organisation: Sarah Munn - Barefoot Therapists

Location: VIC

Course Overview: Advanced Animal Assisted Therapy for Registered Therapists (Level 3) 2 days - Gadara Farm, Mornington Peninsula - 16 hours An experiential workshop for Practicing Animal Assisted Therapists to receive a small group program designed for improving mental wellbeing. We focus on consent, boundaries & managing our own wellbeing. Take new clinical tools home with renewed vigor, inspiration & insight. Trauma informed & neurodiverse affirming. Includes horses - NO horse experience needed for this one.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: In-class

Level One and Two Animal Assisted Therapy (Equine and other species)

Training Organisation: Sarah Munn - Barefoot Therapists

Location: VIC

Course Overview: Level One - Practice & Clinical Skill Building - 50 hour Coaching Program 10 weeks - 90 minutes/week online + self-paced 35 hours. Access to Sarah Munn for support throughout Develop your practice, programs & skills to include horses in Therapy Practice Level Two - Practical Hands-on Workshop 2 Days face to face - 16 hours Learn clinical & handling skills with horses for therapy. Experience planning & running a supervised horse/farm session with clients Focused, professional feedback

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Blended

Clinical Supervision Animal/Paediatric/Neurodiversity

Training Organisation: Sarah Munn - Barefoot Therapists

Location: VIC

Course Overview: Clinical supervision provided focusing on use of the farm environment and animals including horses. Sarah has a special interest in autism being a neurodiverse OT herself with 2 children with autism, ADHD and one has down syndrome. 10 years in the AAT sector and nearly 30 years as a paediatric OT, Sarah can also provide mentoring on setting up your own practice. Sarah runs her own Child & Family Clinic and a Therapeutic Farm with 20 staff. Individual and team supervision available.

Course Level: Supervision

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Study Method: Online

Intro Course: Equine, Animal, Nature Assisted Practice

Training Organisation: Equine Supported Programs (ESP)

Location: National

Course Overview: ESP Intro to Nature-Based Learning, Growth & Healing'. Certificate of completion to acknowledge personal and / or professional development. Self-paced course (or workshop). Suits teens to seniors. Gain valuable insight into Equine / Animal / Nature supported wellness practice for self and others. Valuable if wishing more information about the ESP Practitioner Certification or Facilitator Course. Valuable for volunteers and / or integrating quality ethics in current or future practice.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Blended

Canine Assisted Therapy Team Certification Course

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs NSW

Location: National

Course Overview: Online Canine Assisted Therapy Team Certification Course: facilitated by positive dog trainer/Accredited Mental Health Social Worker/canine assisted therapist. Features 4 units, zoom sessions, a payment plan and 12 months post course support. Begin your therapy dog journey supported by Therapy Dogs NSW, where your dogs well-being is our #1 priority. View our course at: https://therapy-dogs-nsw.trainercentralsite.com.au/course/canine-assisted-therapy-team-certification-course or phone 0458420455

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: Online

Puppy to Certified Therapy Team Training Course

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs NSW

Location: National

Course Overview: Online Course - Puppy to Certified Therapy Dog Team: 6 month course, taking you from puppy training through to therapy dog team certification. Course includes 6 monthly units, 6 zoom sessions with trainer, individual training plan, 2 day certification course at 12 months. Paid in monthly instalments over 6 months, all units need to be completed and passed to achieve certification. Please follow link for registration https://therapy-dogs-nsw.trainercentralsite.com.au/#/signup.

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: Blended

Train to be a Horses Helping Humans Facilitator

Training Organisation: Horses Helping Humans Australia

Location: National

Course Overview: Train to become a certified facilitator of the Horses Helping Humans program. Self-paced, online training with weekly zoom support sessions. Assessment is by video submission. The program is not counselling or equine therapy, it teaches communication skills & body language awareness using personality profiling. Each horsemanship skill has a psychological base introducing students to life skills including techniques for focusing, lowering anger & anxiety & developing communication skills.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Online

Handler, dog team course including therapy/school/facility dog certification

Training Organisation: K9 Potential

Location: QLD

Course Overview: This course is a combination of online and in person learning. The five Modules are completed progressively in your own time, so avoiding information overload. In person learning is bespoke so geared to your therapy setting. The course provider is qualified and highly experienced dog trainer. Continued support and guidance is provided, post certification. The material and practical components are up to date and scientifically sound. The well-being of the dog is paramount.

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: Blended

Canine Assisted Therapy Professional/Clinical Certification - Therapy Team Certification

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs NSW

Location: NSW

Course Overview: Your dogs wellbeing is our NUMBER 1 PRIORITY, we are your dogs advocate in the therapy dog training space. Our course is the only face to face clinical certification course in NSW, we want to meet you and your dog, our training is built on mutuality and respect for your dog. Our course adheres to the ATL Code of Conduct and uses postive reinforment and force free behaviour shaping techniques. Our course is a complimentary mixture of practical dog behaviour shaping and clinical practice.

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: In-class

Canine Assisted Therapy Professional/Clinical Certification - Therapy Team Certification

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs NSW

Location: TAS

Course Overview: Hobart here we come! Your dogs wellbeing is our NUMBER 1 PRIORITY, we are your dogs advocate in the therapy dog training space. Our course is the only face to face clinical certification course, our training is built on mutuality and respect for your dog. Our course adheres to the ATL Code of Conduct and uses postive reinforment and force free behaviour shaping techniques. Our course is a complimentary mixture of practical dog behaviour shaping and clinical practice.

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: In-class

Canine Assisted Therapy Professional/Clinical Certification - Therapy Team Certification

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs NSW

Location: National

Course Overview: Your dogs wellbeing is our NUMBER 1 PRIORITY, we are your dogs advocate in the therapy dog training space. Our course is the only face to face clinical certification course in NSW, we want to meet you and your dog, our training is built on mutuality and respect for your dog. Our course adheres to the ATL Code of Conduct and uses postive reinforment and force free behaviour shaping techniques. Our course is a complimentary mixture of practical dog behaviour shaping and clinical practice.

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: Blended

School Dog Therapy Team Certification Course

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs NSW

Location: National

Course Overview: Your Dogs wellbeing is our NUMBER 1 Priority. This blended Canine Assisted Therapy course is designed for school teachers, school psychologists, school counsellors, school social workers and all who would like to train and work as a therapy team with their dog to support school students and staff. The course is a 4 day immersive experience either at our therapy dog centre or we can come to your school and train you and your dog in situ and help you integrate your dog into school.

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: Blended

Therapy Dog Introduction Workshop

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs NSW

Location: National

Course Overview: Join us on the 1st Thursday on the month for a Therapy Dog Information evening. First complete the online tuition which provides an overview of what is required of a therapy dog team and other useful information, then join us for a Q&A zoom session with our head trainer and clinical advisor to clear up any questions or concerns. Visit our website and complete our online application. We hope to answser your questions soon.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Online

School Dog Therapy Team Certification Course

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs NSW

Location: NSW

Course Overview: Your Dogs wellbeing is our NUMBER 1 Priority. This face-to-face Canine Assisted Therapy course is designed for school teachers, school psychologists, school counsellors, school social workers and all who would like to train and work as a therapy team with their dog to support school students and staff. The course is a 4 day immersive experience either at our therapy dog centre or we can come to your school and train you and your dog in situ and help you integrate your dog into school.

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: Blended

Certificate in Animal Assisted Psychotherapy

Training Organisation: Animal Assisted Therapy Programs of Colorado

Location: International

Course Overview: Our Certificate Program is geared towards mental health professionals and graduate students who want to integrate animals into their professional practice. You will taught by instructors who lead the field with their own development and practice of AAP, serving hundreds of clients with dozens of different animal species and breeds. Certification meets requirements for professional organizations and includes 6 hours of direct supervision.

Course Level: Certificate I

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Study Method: Online

Introductory Workshop

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs Australia

Location: National

Course Overview: New to the industry? Thinking about becoming involved? This Introductory Workshop is perfect for those who are excited by this industry but really have no idea where to start - or want to get a head start on their planning. Appropriate for people who do not have a dog yet, as we do discuss dog selection. Also appropriate for those who DO already have a dog. Course focuses on canines, but general AAT information also useful for those working with other species.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Online

Therapy Dog Juniors Mentoring Programs

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs Australia

Location: National

Course Overview: Start training your puppy and adolescent dogs for a career in animal assisted therapy through our Juniors Mentoring Program! This program begins with a 'need to know' webinar, and then weekly or fortnightly online classes (Monday nights), booked casually as needed. These mentoring programs mean that you can start getting your young dogs on track nice and early. Learn what NOT to do, and proven strategies for nurturing young dogs in to therapy dogs.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Online

Therapy Dog & Handler Clinical Course

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs Australia

Location: National

Course Overview: Therapy Dogs Australia is run by accredited Dog Trainers & Psychologists who are experienced in providing Animal Assisted Therapies. Our mission is to equip dog & handler teams to work safely and ethically with their dogs and clients. This course runs either over 5 consecutive days, or 5 weeks (one day per week). We also have a self-paced option with 5 hours of individual tuition available for those who are unable to work course dates in to their busy schedules. Ongoing PD available.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Online

Therapy Dog & Handler Community Course

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs Australia

Location: National

Course Overview: This Therapy Dog & Handler training course is designed to equip you and your dog with the skills required to work together in an animal-assisted activities (visiting) setting. This is the course that is suitable for people who are wishing to: --- Volunteer with their dog at a hospital or school --- Working in the health industry support role --- Support worker role, Disability work, Youth workers --- Health worker or education worker who is trained up to a Certificate or Diploma level

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Online

Canine Assisted Therapy in Practice

Training Organisation: Insight Therapies Counselling and Consultancy

Location: National

Course Overview: Over 5 hours of training filled with the key learning & skill development required to implement effective AAT within their agency, private practice or school such as: *Identify common treatment goals *Explore different delivery frameworks *Learn the 'how' - practical ways to implement AAT in session *Understand key legal & ethical obligations +more Upon completion of the course, participants can make an informed decision if full certification is right for them & how to take that next step

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Online

Counselling, Specialising in Equine Assisted Mental Health

Training Organisation: Equine Assisted Therapy Australia

Location: NSW, QLD, VIC

Course Overview: Being a counsellor and equine assisted mental health practitioner, and having the skills to support and assist others, is a rewarding and enriching experience. The course consists of the CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling which includes 13 core units and 4 electives and 4 equine handling units of competency (these units are all Nationally accredited).

Course Level: Diploma

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Study Method: Blended

EAMH (Equine Assisted Mental Health)

Training Organisation: Equine Assisted Therapy Australia

Location: NSW, QLD

Course Overview: This course is very hands on, trauma informed, practical and experiential. You will learn the theory and practice of equine assisted mental health as well as equine handling skills. The course will support you to apply your current knowledge and skills to working therapeutically with the horses.Our course involves a huge amount of personal development and growth, and the length and depth of the course ensures you will graduate feeling competent and confident in your knowledge and skills.

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: Blended

Chickens to Love (AAL) - Training the Facilitator

Training Organisation: Animal Perspectives

Location: National

Course Overview: CHICKENS TO LOVE (AAL) – Training the Facilitator Learn, develop, and apply skills to effectively facilitate Animal Assisted Learning Program Chickens to Love. COURSE OVERVIEW Chickens to Love is designed from a neurodivergent and animal (Chicken) perspective. Created to develop a better understanding of social dynamics, our own emotions and other people’s, understand situations from a multi perspective. CTL is an inclusive program created to benefit everyone and include everyone.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Online

Supervision and Consultation in AAI

Training Organisation: Lead The Way Institute

Location: National

Course Overview: Our expert team offer a range of supervision and consultation options for graduates of our institute, and professionals and students who are seeking to deepen their understanding of working in Animal Assisted Interactions. Join our supervision groups: Professional Caine Assisted Interactions for Wellbeing and Learning, or Animal-Assisted Therapy in Mental Health

Course Level: Supervision

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Study Method: Blended

Level Five – Practitioner Certification. Certificate in Animal-Assisted Interventions (Canine)

Training Organisation: Lead The Way Institute

Location: National

Course Overview: Gain Practitioner Certification as an Animal-Assisted Therapist, Animal-Assisted Educator or Animal-Assisted Activities Coordinator by completing Australia’s first Certificate in Animal-Assisted Interventions (Canine)*. This flexible, self-paced programme includes Masterclass (practicum) an additional 25 hours of home study, online exam, and 9 months of supervised professional practice. (This programme completed after Levels one to four Certification) *Not registered with ASQA

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: Blended

Level Four – Advanced Therapy Dog and Handler Team Certification

Training Organisation: Lead The Way Institute

Location: VIC

Course Overview: This Certification level is ideal for working CAI professionals to develop advanced skills in facilitating off-lead, interactive and play-based interventions with their clients or students. It provides teams with a toolkit of interactions across the four NB-AAI domains of relational, educational, self-regulatory and sensory-motor. Handlers develop skills in facilitating goal-directed interventions and dogs are certified to work off lead in complex environments.

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: In-class

Level Three – Advanced CAI Theory and Preparation

Training Organisation: Lead The Way Institute

Location: National

Course Overview: This Certification level is ideal for working CAI professionals who wish to develop stronger theoretical foundations and a deeper understanding of the interactions between their clients and therapy dogs. It provides handlers with the skills to begin developing play-based interactions using off-lead training techniques, trick training and agility. Online and in-person options available.

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: Blended

Level Two – Visiting Therapy Dog and Handler Team Certification

Training Organisation: Lead The Way Institute

Location: VIC

Course Overview: This Certification level is ideal for health, human-service, helping, support or education professionals who wish to work with their dogs to support their students, clients, customers or participants. It Certifies the handler and dog team to work safely, effectively and ethically in visiting or professional multidisciplinary settings, delivering canine assisted interactions (CAI).

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: In-class

Level One: Provisional Handler & Learner Therapy Dog

Training Organisation: Lead The Way Institute

Location: National

Course Overview: This Certification level is our entry level Certification and can be completed entirely remotely. Level One is ideal for people who are preparing for full team Certification, or who are unable to attend an in-person practicum training & assessment in Melbourne, Victoria Australia. It provides the handler with the skills and knowledge required to prepare their dog for certification, or to implement, manage and provide administrative support for a therapy dog programme.

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: Blended

Canine Assisted Interactions - Foundations of Practice

Training Organisation: Lead The Way Institute

Location: National

Course Overview: Have you been asked to develop or supervise a therapy dog programme? Do you want to know how to get started, and what might be involved? This short e-course will provide you with the knowledge to develop a safe and ethical service. It consists of all of the CAI theory required for Certification, excluding only the live dog-handling workshops and training lectures. This course also includes all of the policies, procedures, standards and best practice guidelines you will need to get started.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Online

What Dog Is Right For Me?

Training Organisation: Lead The Way Institute

Location: National

Course Overview: There are many different roles that our dogs can take in our lives and in our communities. Should your dog train as a visiting therapy dog offering love and support to your clients? Should your dog train as an emotional support or service/assistance dog to support you or a family member? This short course is designed to help you firstly consider whether a dog is the right addition to your family and then to understand what might be the best role for your dog to take in your life.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Online

Therapy Dogs are not Assistance Dogs

Training Organisation: Lead The Way Institute

Location: National

Course Overview: We live in a world where there is a broad range of terminology used to describe the various roles dogs can take in our lives. The word “therapy dog” is used in a variety of ways, making it difficult to understand the differences between different roles. This course is designed to help clarify the differences between a visiting therapy dog and a service or assistance dog.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Online

Is My Dog Suitable To Be A Therapy Dog?

Training Organisation: Lead The Way Institute

Location: National

Course Overview: Are you interested in involving your dog at work, but not sure if your dog is suitable? Do you have clients or students who might benefit from interacting with your dog, but you’re concerned about your dog’s training or temperament? Perhaps you would like to give back to your local community, taking your dog for visits at a nursing home or hospital, but worry your dog may be too old or too young. This short course outlines the requirements for a successful visiting therapy dog

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Online

Introduction to Multidisciplinary Animal Assisted Interactions

Training Organisation: Lead The Way Institute

Location: National

Course Overview: How can the inclusion of animals enhance your work, better engage your clients, and provide relief and joy? This course is designed to give an overview of what animal assisted interactions and interventions are, and the benefits to both people and animals. If you have been wanting to learn more about AAIs then this is the course for you!

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Online

Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour & Training

Training Organisation: Delta Therapy Dogs - Delta Institute

Location: National

Course Overview: Delta Institute (RTO 90250) offers nationally recognised vocational training under the AQF. The course teaches scientifically proven positive reinforcement training techniques. Course modules: Module 1 – Animal Health & Welfare Module 2 – Personal Wellbeing & Workplace Health and Safety Module 3 – Practical Training Methodology & Technique Module 4 – Design, Plan & Deliver Training Programs Module 5 – Manage Animal Behaviour Module 6 – Positive Reinforcement advocacy

Course Level: Certificate IV

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Study Method: Blended

(Online) Certificate in ESP Learning, Growth & Healing Practitioner

Training Organisation: Equine Supported Programs (ESP)

Location: National, ACT, NSW, NT, QLD, SA, TAS, VIC, WA

Course Overview: Foundation Certificate suitable for practice in Equine/Animal/Nature Assisted Learning & Therapeutic Modalities. This course provides excellent value for both personal & professional development for those interested in animal & nature based practice. Small groups tailored to suit individual needs & engagement comfort. Experiential, interactive learning in a safe space setting with special circumstances considered. Course consists of 4 learning intensives (5 days each), assessments & support.

Course Level: Accreditation

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Study Method: Online

Animal Assisted Services in Schools - Introductory Workshop

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs in Education

Location:

Course Overview: This is an introductory workshop exploring the considerations and complexities of introducing Therapy Dogs / Support Dogs into school contexts. We explore the key terminology of Animal-Assisted Services, current industry guidelines, best practice approaches, planning for success, animal welfare considerations and future steps and training options. We also allow for question time within this workshop to help navigate individual contexts. Places are limited in each course.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Online

Animal-assisted therapy for healthcare professionals

Training Organisation: La Trobe University

Location: National, ACT, NSW, NT, QLD, SA, TAS, VIC, WA, International

Course Overview: This course is designed for qualified and soon-to-qualify healthcare professionals. It covers the theoretical basis for working with animals in therapeutic settings, existing organisational requirements to set up an animal-assisted therapy program, and ways in which horses, dogs, and other animals may help practitioners provide therapeutic benefit for clients, while maintaining animal welfare and human health and safety. Students will learn from subject matter experts.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Online

Professional Supervision

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs Australia

Location:

Course Overview: Therapy Dogs Australia trainers are available for professional consulting/supervision. Samantha is a Psychologist & board approved supervisor. She with young people providing canine & equine-assisted CBT & facilitates TDA courses. Amy is a psychologist and teacher, engaged in a masters program at Monash University, and working at a private high school in Queensland. She also facilitates TDA courses. Dr. Jess is an Occupational Therapist and Lecturer at The University of Queensland.

Course Level: Supervision

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Study Method: Online

Animal Assisted Services Introductory Workshop

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs Australia

Location: National

Course Overview: This introductory workshop is designed to give people interested in Animal Assisted Services and overview of what is involved in this industry. There is a focus on professional and ethical delivery of these services, animal welfare and directions and discussion on choosing an animal, suitability of work role and volunteering information. There is plenty of time for questions, and people often choose to attend this course first before making the decision to invest in ongoing training.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Online

Community Therapy Dog & Handler Team Training

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs Australia

Location: National

Course Overview: This Community Therapy Dog & Handler training course is designed to equip you and your dog with the skills required to work together in an animal-assisted activities (visiting) setting. This is the course that is suitable for people who are may not be qualified to work in health/disability but have a passion to share the love of their canine. This course is also suitable for non-bachelor trained health & education professionals who do not qualify for our Clinical course.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Blended

Clinical Therapy Dog & Handler Team Training

Training Organisation: Therapy Dogs Australia

Location: National, QLD

Course Overview: This Therapy Dog & Handler training course is designed to equip you and your dog with the skills required to work together in an animal-assisted therapy setting. It is our primary goal that your dog and your participant/s are both safe and enjoy their experiences together. Therefore, this course covers a wide range of topics from canine skills, manners and body language, animal assisted services logistical considerations and specific animal assisted therapy activities training.

Course Level: Short Course

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Study Method: Blended

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