Everything to Know About Emotional Support Animals
by Alyssa Nelson MA, LMHC, SUDP, RYT
Thursday, October 26, 2023 from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm PT
Zoom link emailed upon registration
2 CEUs
Workshop Description
This event will focus on everything clinicians need to know about emotional support animals. It will cover the differences between emotional support, therapy, and service animals, the laws and ethics behind emotional support animals, and build a clear understanding of when and how to write an ESA letter for your clients.
Workshop Learning Goals
- Participants will be able to recite and understand the two foundational laws surrounding ESAs with their clients with ease and clarity and be able to make informed, empowered decisions about writing ESA letters.
- Participants will come away with an ESA letter writing template and clear insight into when and how to write an emotional support animal letter for clients.
Workshop Overview
- Introduction & Background
- Laws on ESA's
- ESA video and discussion
- Letter writing samples
- Closing discussion and questions
About the Presenter:
Alyssa Nelson holds a Bachelor's Degree from Point Loma Nazarene University in Therapeutic and Community Psychology, a Master's Degree from Naropa University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an emphasis in Transpersonal Wilderness Therapy, and holds an Advanced Addiction Studies certificate from Seattle University. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Substance Use Disorder Professional in the state of WA. In addition to her more formal clinical studies, Alyssa is a certified Advanced Animal-Assisted Therapist, EMDR practitioner, WA State Approved Supervisor, and Certified Yoga instructor in Hatha Vinyasa, Yin, and Trauma-Informed Yoga. Alyssa has extensive work experience in various settings with diverse populations, including facilitating equine and canine-assisted therapies. Currently, she works part time in her private practice offering trauma-informed yoga therapy, canine-assisted therapy, EMDR, mindfulness-based stress reduction, nature-based therapy, nature retreats, and offers various continuing education courses to her colleagues in WA state. In her off hours, Alyssa is often hiking/backpacking, skiing, teaching yoga, and reading fantasy books.
