Comparison of DBT Skills Groups with and without Animal-Assistance for Incarcerated Women with Self-Harm Histories

Eaton-Stull, Yvonne; Wright, Cynthia S.; DeAngelis, Christina; Zambroski, Alisha

doi:10.1080/23774657.2019.1629849

Cited by 3 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 34 publications

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“…These results complement findings of a study comparing a dialectic behavioral therapy (DBT) skills group for incarcerated women with self-harm histories. In this study, the group with animal-assistance had a significantly higher adherence to treatment and less dropouts compared to the group without animal-assistance 58 . However, a recent systematic review and meta-analysis for post-traumatic stress disorder found animal-assisted and standard interventions to be equivalent with regard to dropouts 59 .…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 54%

Effects of animal-assisted psychotherapy incorporating mindfulness and self-compassion in neurorehabilitation: a randomized controlled feasibility trial

Künzi

Ackert

Holtforth

et al. 2022

Sci Rep

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Transdiagnostic psychotherapeutic approaches are increasingly used in neurorehabilitation to address psychological distress. Animal-assistance is thought to increase efficacy. The present study evaluates a psychotherapeutic mindfulness- and self-compassion-based group intervention (MSCBI) with and without animal-assistance for patients with acquired brain injury. Patients (N = 31) were randomly assigned to the 6-week intervention with (n = 14) or without animal-assistance (n = 17). Primary outcome was psychological distress at post- and follow-up treatment, secondary outcomes were changes within-session of patients’ emotional states, adherence to treatment and attrition. Psychological distress significantly decreased in both groups from pre- to follow-up treatment with no difference between groups. Patients in the animal-assisted MSCBI group reported significantly higher increases in feeling secure, accepted, comforted, grateful, motivated and at ease during the sessions compared to patients in the MSCBI group without animal-assistance. Adherence to sessions was significantly higher in the animal-assisted MSCBI group. Attrition did not significantly differ between groups. Our results show that both MSCBIs with and without animal-assistance are feasible and effective in reducing psychological distress in patients with acquired brain injury. The significant changes within-sessions mainly in relationship-based emotional states and the higher treatment adherence suggest additional effects of animal-assistance. Animal-assistance might increase acceptability and patients’ commitment to psychotherapy.

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 54%

Effects of animal-assisted psychotherapy incorporating mindfulness and self-compassion in neurorehabilitation: a randomized controlled feasibility trial

Künzi

Ackert

Holtforth

et al. 2022

Sci Rep

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Animal-Assisted Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Groups for Those who are Incarcerated: A Pre-Post-test Study

Eaton-Stull,

Streidl,

Hays

et al. 2024

Research on Social Work Practice

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Incidents of self-harm present significant concerns in correctional facilities. Purpose: Developing interventions to address self-injury is beneficial to individuals who are incarcerated as well as the security personnel in charge of their care and custody. Method: Four 6-week animal-assisted dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills groups were provided to men and women incarcerated in a jail. Each group integrated two therapy dogs while participants utilized a workbook to assist in the application of DBT skills. A total of 23 participants completed the program. Results: Participants demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in self-harming behaviors. Discussion: All participants indicated that the presence of therapy dogs was helpful as they provided comfort/support, calming/coping, and focus. The receptivity to groups and the results offer support for enhancing treatment in correctional facilities.

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Assessing Cultural, Religious, and Trauma Influences in Human-Animal Interactions for Effective Animal-Assisted Counseling

Evans

2024

Animals

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The purpose of this manuscript is to enhance the understanding of how racial, social, and cultural factors influence animal-assisted counseling (AAC). As AAC gains popularity, there is an increasing need for clinicians to practice cultural humility and awareness. While AAC has proven beneficial, clinicians must consider the diverse cultural, religious, and trauma-related perceptions of animals. The American Counseling Association (ACA) has established AAC competencies that highlight the importance of understanding these social and cultural factors, assessing past animal-related trauma, and evaluating client suitability for AAC in the United States. Similarly, in 2018, the International Association of Human-Animal Interactions Organizations (IAHAIO) and, in 2024, the Association of Animal-Assisted Intervention Professionals (AAAIP) set standards for competencies related to clients’ cultural backgrounds, trauma, and historical oppressions related to certain species. By addressing these considerations, clinicians can better promote and protect the welfare of both clients and therapy animals. While these organizations generally emphasize ethical standards, professional guidelines, and safeguarding client–animal relationships, this manuscript advocates for a more robust examination of cultural, racial, and societal factors in the use of AAC. This includes not only recognizing the ethical implications but also understanding how diverse backgrounds and access disparities shape the effectiveness, acceptability, and accessibility of AAC interventions. This approach integrates culturally responsive practices and promotes a deeper exploration of how race, culture, religion, and societal factors influence human–animal relationships.

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Comparison of DBT Skills Groups with and without Animal-Assistance for Incarcerated Women with Self-Harm Histories

Cited by 3 publications

References 34 publications

Effects of animal-assisted psychotherapy incorporating mindfulness and self-compassion in neurorehabilitation: a randomized controlled feasibility trial

Effects of animal-assisted psychotherapy incorporating mindfulness and self-compassion in neurorehabilitation: a randomized controlled feasibility trial

Animal-Assisted Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Groups for Those who are Incarcerated: A Pre-Post-test Study

Assessing Cultural, Religious, and Trauma Influences in Human-Animal Interactions for Effective Animal-Assisted Counseling

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