The Role of Companion Animals in the Treatment of Mental Disorders
- Nancy R. Gee, Ph.D.,
- Lisa D. Townsend, Ph.D., LCSW,
- Robert L. Findling, M.D., M.B.A.
The human-animal bond goes back millennia and has been extensively documented from ancient literature to modern-day research reports. Although millions of pet owners will vouch for the benefits of companion animals, the decision about whether to implement animal-based interventions for mental disorders is not always a simple one.
Offering a scientifically grounded review of the latest research, complemented by practical examples, The Role of Companion Animals in the Treatment of Mental Disorders examines the existing evidence to support these practices as well as the risks associated with various types of programs.
This robust volume features detailed discussion of topics that include human-animal interactions in specific patient populations and settings, as well as best practices for ensuring animal welfare and well-being, with an emphasis on understanding applicable laws and regulations.
Readers will come away with an understanding of the role that animals can play in mitigating psychiatric symptoms, engaging patients in treatment, and enhancing well-being—as well as key principles and considerations for determining whether an animal-based intervention is appropriate for a given patient.
Nancy R. Gee, Ph.D., is Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the School of Medicine, Director of the Center for Human-Animal Interaction, and Bill Balaban Chair in Human-Animal Interaction at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine in Richmond, Virginia.
Lisa D. Townsend, LCSW, Ph.D., is Associate Professor in the Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry at Children's Hospital of Virginia in Richmond, Virginia, and Clinical and Research Associate at the Center for Human-Animal Interaction at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia.
Robert L. Findling, M.D., M.B.A., is Professor and Chair in the Department of Psychiatry and C. Kenneth and Diane Wright Distinguished Chair in Clinical and Translational Research at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia.
| DOI: | https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9781615379910 |
| Publisher: | American Psychiatric Publishing |
| Copyright Year: | 2023 |
| Print Date: | February 16, 2023 |
| Online Date: | December 5, 2024 |