Animal-Assisted Therapy -Ethical Practice in Mental Health Social Work (FPS)

LIVE ONLINE WEBINAR

Capability Level: Emerging and Evolving

This training is designed for social workers seeking to deepen their understanding of AAT and its application in mental health and trauma-focused practice. With the rise of interest in integrating animals into therapeutic work, it is critical for social workers to understand how to do so safely, ethically, and in alignment with professional standards.

Drawing on the Australian guidelines developed by Animal Therapies Ltd (ATL), including the Minimum Competencies for Allied Health Professionals and the Canine-Assisted Social Work Guidelines, this session provides participants with a strong theoretical and practical foundation. The training also explores how AAT can be implemented through Focussed Psychological Strategies (FPS) to ensure AMHSWs meet their requirements under Medicare, with case studies and chat-based reflection to support clinical integration.

Participants will explore ethical responsibilities, client and animal welfare, treatment goals, evidence-informed practice, and the nuanced skills required to deliver AAT responsibly in social work settings.

Who should attend?

This webinar is suitable for a wide range of social workers, from those newly exploring the field of animal-assisted therapy (AAT), to experienced clinicians seeking to integrate AAT within their mental health or trauma-focused practice.

It is particularly relevant for:

· Accredited Mental Health Social Workers (AMHSWs)

· Clinical social workers delivering services to client’s affected by interpersonal trauma

· Emerging practitioners interested in ethical and evidence-based integration of animals in practice

· Anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of AAT and its alignment with ethical frameworks and professional competencies

Whether you’re exploring the potential of AAT or already incorporating animals into your work, this session offers both foundational understanding and advanced insights to support safe, ethical, and impactful practice.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this program, participants will be able to:

- Identify key ethical principles and dual responsibilities when delivering Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT)

-Understand the ATL Minimum Competencies and their application to social work practice

-Apply Focussed Psychological Strategies in the context of AAT using trauma-informed approaches

-Analyse clinical case studies and integrate AAT into safe, goal-oriented practice

Event Structure:

Introduction

Learning Session 1: Identify key ethical principles and dual responsibilities when delivering Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) (20minutes)

Learning Activity 1: Interactive group discussion

Learning Session 2: Understand the ATL Minimum Competencies and their application to social work practice (25 minutes)

Learning Activity 2: Interactive group discussion

Learning Session 3: Apply Focussed Psychological Strategies in the context of AAT using trauma-informed approaches (17minutes)

Learning Activity 3: Open discussion and case study

Learning Session 4: Analyse clinical case studies and integrate AAT into safe, goal-oriented practice (17 minutes)

Learning Activity 4: Open discussion and case study

Conclusion and Q&A

AASW Credential: Mental health (FPS)

FPS: Behavioural Interventions, Relaxation Strategies Interpersonal Skills Training Psychoeducation and Cognitive and Problem-Solving Techniques will be incorporated into a section of this workshop.

FPS: Skills Training will be incorporated into a section of this workshop under e. (iii and iv) of Medicare schedule https://www9.health.gov.au/mbs/fullDisplay.cfm?type=note&q=MN.7.4&qt=noteID&criteria=MN%2E7%2E4)

Please consider the AASW CPD Policy regarding FPS when logging your FPS hours manually:

Can't attend live? Your registration includes a copy of the presentation slides and 2 weeks' free access to the event recording.