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Speaking Engagements
Having received my bachelors degree in Animal Science/Pre-vet from UT- Knoxville and working in the veterinary field, both at the UTK Vet Teaching Hospital as an undergrad and as a vet tech for both a small animal hospital and mobile equine veterinary unit, I have a clear understanding of the demands and struggles faced by those in the veterinary profession and the animal care industry. This experience inspired me to become certified as a Veterinary Social Worker through the UT-Knoxville VSW Certification program. Listed below are the VSW specific services offered to support individuals and animal care professionals.
Animal Assisted Interventions Consultation:
Consultations are available for those who are interested in adding AAI to your programs or services and looking for support on how to honor the human/animal bond while remaining mindful of the best practices for both the human and the animal. I have decades of experience in AAI as a volunteer for a local mounted therapy program and with the HABIT program in Tennessee before stepping into Equine Assisted Psychotherapy almost a decade ago.
I am also available for consultation to other mental health professionals with questions regarding Emotional Support Animals and writing ESAs for clients.
The Link between Human and Animal Abuse:
Having worked in a domestic violence shelter and seeing the evidence of The Link first hand, I have working knowledge of the issues facing both veterinary professionals and supporters of survivors who may be faced with decisions and complications relative to the Link in day to day practices. I am available for consultations for both veterinary practices as well as organizations serving DV survivors for best practices and information on how we can best serve and honor the human animal bond in these situations and when either or both, because of that bond, are at risk or in danger.
Compassion Fatigue and Conflict Resolution for Veterinary Practices:
Having studied and worked in the veterinary field, I have working knowledge of the unique demands and struggles of those in the veterinary and animal care industries. I am available for consultations or lunch and learns for veterinary practices and/or shelters to provide support for both direct care staff as well as administrative staff who are looking to create a healthier and more mindful work environment. Please contact me for more information or to discuss the specific needs of your practice or organization.
Grief and Bereavement Support for Pet Loss:
Pet loss can be profound and often one of the most significant losses we face yet, as a society, it is still experienced as disenfranchised grief. For this reason, additonal and specific support is often neccessary to support individuals faced with the loss of a companion or pet. Having been trained in addressing this disenfrancshied loss, I am available for both individual support as well as group support as a referral for veterinary practices looking to offer additional support and services to your clients. Please reach out if you are interested in how to offer this service to our clients and staff.