Certified Specialist Programme in Animal-Assisted Therapy for Mood Disorders in Older Adults

Saturday, 24 January 2026 07:46:07

International applicants and their qualifications are accepted

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Overview

Overview

Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) is a powerful tool for improving mental well-being. Our Certified Specialist Programme in Animal-Assisted Therapy for Mood Disorders in Older Adults equips professionals with specialized knowledge and skills.


This program focuses on utilizing animal-assisted interventions to treat depression and anxiety in elderly populations. You'll learn evidence-based techniques, ethical considerations, and practical application of AAT. Mood disorders are a significant concern in older adults, and this training provides the expertise to effectively address these challenges.


Designed for healthcare professionals, including therapists, nurses, and social workers, this Animal-Assisted Therapy program fosters a deeper understanding of the human-animal bond and its therapeutic potential.


Become a certified specialist and make a real difference. Explore the program details today and register for upcoming courses!

Animal-Assisted Therapy: Become a Certified Specialist in this transformative field! This unique programme focuses on utilizing the therapeutic power of animals to alleviate mood disorders in older adults. Gain practical skills in assessment, intervention, and program development, expanding your career prospects in geriatric care, mental health, and animal welfare. Our program blends evidence-based practices with hands-on experience, differentiating you from other practitioners. Enhance your understanding of canine behavior and the human-animal bond while preparing for a rewarding career helping vulnerable populations. Become a leader in this growing field of animal assisted interventions.

Entry requirements

The program operates on an open enrollment basis, and there are no specific entry requirements. Individuals with a genuine interest in the subject matter are welcome to participate.

International applicants and their qualifications are accepted.

Step into a transformative journey at LSIB, where you'll become part of a vibrant community of students from over 157 nationalities.

At LSIB, we are a global family. When you join us, your qualifications are recognized and accepted, making you a valued member of our diverse, internationally connected community.

Course Content

• Understanding Mood Disorders in Older Adults
• Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) Principles and Practices
• Selecting and Training Suitable Animals for AAT (Canine & Feline Focus)
• Ethical Considerations and Professional Boundaries in Animal-Assisted Therapy
• Assessment and Treatment Planning in AAT for Mood Disorders
• Practical Application of AAT Techniques: Activities & Interventions
• Measuring Outcomes and Evaluating Effectiveness of AAT Interventions
• Legal and Regulatory Aspects of AAT (Insurance, Liability)
• Working with Caregivers and Multidisciplinary Teams
• Case Studies & Reflective Practice in Animal-Assisted Therapy for Mood Disorders

Assessment

The evaluation process is conducted through the submission of assignments, and there are no written examinations involved.

Fee and Payment Plans

30 to 40% Cheaper than most Universities and Colleges

Duration & course fee

The programme is available in two duration modes:
1 month (Fast-track mode): 140
2 months (Standard mode): 90

40% Cheaper

Our course fee is up to 40% cheaper than most universities and colleges.

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Awarding body

 The programme is awarded by London School of International Business. This program is not intended to replace or serve as an equivalent to obtaining a formal degree or diploma. It should be noted that this course is not accredited by a recognised awarding body or regulated by an authorised institution/ body.

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  • Start this course anytime from anywhere.
  • 1. Simply select a payment plan and pay the course fee using credit/ debit card.
  • 2. Course starts
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Got questions? Get in touch

Chat with us: Click the live chat button

+44 75 2064 7455

admissions@lsib.co.uk

+44 (0) 20 3608 0144



Career path

Career Role Description
Animal-Assisted Therapy Practitioner (Mood Disorders, Older Adults) Delivering specialized animal-assisted interventions to improve the mental well-being of older adults experiencing mood disorders. High demand in UK care homes and mental health facilities.
Senior Animal-Assisted Therapy Specialist (Geriatric Mental Health) Leading and supervising animal-assisted therapy programs for older adults with mood disorders. Requires extensive experience and advanced skills in geriatric mental health. Strong leadership and team management skills are crucial.
Animal-Assisted Therapy Program Coordinator (Elderly Care) Managing and coordinating the logistics and implementation of animal-assisted therapy programs within elderly care settings. Requires strong organizational and communication skills.

Key facts about Certified Specialist Programme in Animal-Assisted Therapy for Mood Disorders in Older Adults

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This Certified Specialist Programme in Animal-Assisted Therapy for Mood Disorders in Older Adults equips participants with the specialized knowledge and skills to effectively utilize animal-assisted interventions in geriatric mental health.


Learning outcomes include a comprehensive understanding of the therapeutic benefits of animals for older adults experiencing mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Participants will master assessment techniques, treatment planning, and ethical considerations specific to this population. They'll also develop proficiency in session implementation and documentation, crucial for professional practice. The programme incorporates evidence-based practices and the latest research in geriatric mental health and animal-assisted interventions.


The programme duration is typically structured across several modules, potentially spanning a few months, allowing for a flexible yet thorough learning experience. The exact duration may vary depending on the specific provider and chosen learning pathway (e.g., online vs. in-person).


Industry relevance is high, as the demand for qualified professionals in animal-assisted therapy is growing rapidly. This Certified Specialist Programme provides the necessary credentials for employment in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and private practices. Graduates will be prepared to contribute significantly to the evolving field of geriatric mental healthcare, utilizing the powerful therapeutic bond between humans and animals. The program also touches upon related areas like human-animal interaction and therapeutic recreation.


Successful completion of the program leads to a valuable certification, enhancing career prospects and demonstrating a commitment to excellence in animal-assisted therapy and geriatric mental health.

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Why this course?

The Certified Specialist Programme in Animal-Assisted Therapy for mood disorders in older adults holds significant importance in today's market. With an aging population and rising rates of depression and anxiety amongst older adults in the UK – a statistic estimated at affecting over 1 in 5 older adults according to Age UK – the demand for effective, compassionate interventions is escalating. This specialized training equips therapists with the skills and knowledge necessary to safely and effectively integrate animal-assisted therapy into their practice, addressing a crucial gap in mental health services. The programme's certification enhances professional credibility, increasing marketability and opportunities within a growing field. The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) is increasingly recognizing the potential benefits of such interventions, creating further opportunities for certified professionals. This specialized skill set allows therapists to offer innovative and potentially life-enhancing treatment options for a vulnerable population.

Age Group Percentage Affected
65-74 22%
75-84 25%
85+ 30%

Who should enrol in Certified Specialist Programme in Animal-Assisted Therapy for Mood Disorders in Older Adults?

Ideal Audience for the Certified Specialist Programme in Animal-Assisted Therapy for Mood Disorders in Older Adults
This Animal-Assisted Therapy programme is perfect for you if you're passionate about improving the mental wellbeing of older adults. With over 1.5 million people aged 65+ living with depression in the UK (source needed), the demand for skilled practitioners in this field is high. Are you a qualified therapist, healthcare professional (e.g., nurses, occupational therapists) or animal handler looking to expand your skillset with evidence-based animal-assisted interventions? Perhaps you're already working with older adults and see the potential benefits of incorporating animal-assisted therapy into your practice, or you're simply keen to gain a certified specialist qualification in this rewarding area of care. Our programme provides the knowledge and practical skills you need to confidently and effectively use animal-assisted therapy to address mood disorders in the older adult population. The course will enhance your therapeutic interventions with the incorporation of animals.