Animal-Assisted Therapist
Medical Assistant & Health Sciences
A program that prepares health and human service professionals to integrate the use of animals into their treatment practices in order to facilitate change in people with mental and physical disabilities.
What Animal-Assisted Therapists Do
A program that prepares health and human service professionals to integrate the use of animals into their treatment practices in order to facilitate change in people with mental and physical disabilities.
Common Tasks
- 1Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.
- 2Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences.
- 3Evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers.
- 4Supervise laboratory sessions.
- 5Compile, administer, and grade examinations, or assign this work to others.
What You'll Learn
Types of Animal-Assisted Therapists
Work Environment
Locations
- • Rehabilitation centers
- • Mental health clinics
- • Hospitals
- • Schools and special education programs
- • Equine therapy centers
Schedule
Most roles follow a set weekday schedule, with some evening or weekend sessions depending on client needs and facility hours.
Physical Demands
Work is often a mix of sitting and standing, with moderate repetitive motions and handling of equipment or animals. Some settings (especially equine programs) can require more walking and physical activity, plus comfort working around animals.
Salary & Job Outlook
National Employment: 289,600 jobs
Top Paying States
Why Demand May Grow
Demand may rise as more clinics, schools, and rehab programs add animal-assisted interventions for mental health, trauma, and disability support. Growing awareness of the human-animal bond and interest in nonpharmacological therapies can also expand services.
Skills You'll Need
Pros & Cons
Pros
- • Meaningful, client-centered work
- • Variety of settings (clinical, school, community, equine)
- • Combines healthcare with animal work
- • Can complement existing therapy credentials
- • Growing interest in holistic and supportive therapies
Cons
- • May require additional licensure in a primary therapy profession
- • Insurance reimbursement and funding can be inconsistent
- • Liability, safety, and infection-control requirements
- • Emotional demands working with disability and trauma
- • Animal care logistics and welfare responsibilities
Common Questions About the Animal-Assisted Therapist Trade
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