SoulPaws® unleashes the healing power of the human-animal connection, blending animal-assisted interventions with clinician-led support.
SoulPaws® provides free, evidence-based support for children and adults facing mental health challenges. We unleash the healing power of the human-animal connection by blending trauma-aware, clinician-led support with animal-assisted interventions. Through educational initiatives and community-based programming, we explore, demonstrate and research how animals can be key co-regulators of emotion and partners in healing, particularly for those with regulatory disorders (eating disorders, substance use disorders, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and more).
Mental health needs are at an all-time high. According to NAMI, at least 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experience mental illness each year. Unfortunately, due to stigma and systemic and financial barriers, many of these individuals struggle alone or in silence and do not receive the care they deserve. SoulPaws® breaks barriers by providing innovative mental health support accessible to all, free of cost and diagnostic requirements.
Our Healing Circles — trauma-aware, clinician-led support groups in collaboration with licensed therapy animal organizations — have served 1,000 individuals and counting. Guided by the research of Dr. Bruce Perry and Dr. Patricia Flaherty-Fischette, these innovative groups are designed to help individuals regulate emotions, foster screen-free connections, and heal from a variety of regulatory disorders. Every Healing Circle provides a safe space for individuals to connect with therapy animals (miniature horses, dogs, or small animals), peers, and experienced facilitators.

1
CALM
Obstacle: Difficulties in regulating emotions
SoulPaws® Remedy: Meditation and interactions with therapy animals help calm and regulate the body and mind


2
CONNECT
Obstacle: The experience of feeling “cut off” from authentic connection
SoulPaws® Remedy: Group and 1:1 interactions with therapy animals and peers foster opportunities to make non-judgmental and safe connections


3
HEAL
Obstacle: Barriers to self-reflection block healing
SoulPaws® Remedy: Discussion and reflection that guides individuals toward compassion and healing.
