Meet Olly – Our Therapy Dog

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We’re thrilled to welcome the newest member of our team - Olly, a fully trained Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) dog who now works exclusively with Claire O’ Mahony. As a gentle and intuitive Golden Retriever, Olly brings warmth, safety, and comfort to the therapeutic space, making him a valuable part of our client-centred approach.

Incorporating a therapy animal into the practice has been a long-held vision, and we’re proud to now offer this service as part of our commitment to holistic, compassionate care. Olly is a calming, non-judgmental presence who helps both children and adults feel more at ease, fostering emotional regulation, connection, and trust.

Animal-Assisted Therapy is supported by extensive clinical research, showing that the presence of a therapy dog can:

• Reduce stress, anxiety, and depression

• Lower blood pressure and heart rate

• Increase endorphin levels and support pain management

• Enhance socialisation, confidence, and a sense of belonging

• Support emotional expression and co-regulation

Olly is especially effective in sessions with:

• Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), by supporting social communication and sensory regulation

• Clients dealing with anxiety, trauma, or emotional overwhelm

• Children disclosing experiences of abuse, offering reassurance and helping to create a safer, more emotionally accessible space

Whether lying quietly beside a child during play therapy or offering comforting contact during moments of vulnerability, Olly plays an active and supportive role in sessions with Claire, helping clients feel seen, soothed, and supported.

Olly and Claire look forward to welcoming you into a space where healing feels safe, warm, and gently guided, with a soft paw and a wagging tail by your side. therapy dogs Bryanston