How Ella, a Pit Bull Terrier, Helps Clients Overcome Anxiety at County Road Counseling

At County Road Counseling (CRC), our commitment to holistic mental health care goes beyond traditional therapy sessions. One of the most unique aspects of our practice is the inclusion of animal-assisted therapy, and Ella, our 12-year-old pit bull terrier, plays a central role in that. Her calming presence has made a difference in the lives of countless clients, particularly those dealing with anxiety and emotional difficulties.

Meet Ella: The Gentle Soul Behind the Calm

When you first meet Ella, it’s clear that her age and experience have made her into the calm and loving dog she is today. Unlike some of her more energetic counterparts, Ella has a soothing presence that immediately makes both children and adults feel at ease. She loves naps, is gentle with kids, and has a penchant for treats—but more than that, she knows when someone needs her support the most.

Consider Sarah, a client who came to us struggling with anxiety. (Names have been changed for privacy.) She had difficulty trusting others and was reluctant to engage in therapy. On her first session, Ella greeted her with a gentle nuzzle and stayed by her side throughout the session. Sarah found herself relaxing, and eventually, she was able to open up to her therapist in a way she never thought possible. “Ella made the room feel safe,” Sarah shared. “It was like she knew when I needed her to just be there.”

The Science Behind Animal-Assisted Therapy

What makes Ella so effective in sessions is the unique bond that humans and animals can form. Research has shown that simply being in the presence of an animal can reduce levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, and increase the production of oxytocin, a hormone linked to feelings of love and bonding. Ella’s steady demeanor allows clients to engage in the therapeutic process without feeling overwhelmed by their own emotions.

For children, this bond can be even more profound. One family came to CRC after their child, Alex, began experiencing emotional outbursts due to difficulties adjusting to their parents’ divorce. During their sessions, Alex would sit quietly with Ella and slowly begin to talk. Over time, this bond allowed Alex to express difficult emotions and eventually communicate more openly with their parents and therapist.

Ella’s Role in Helping Clients with Trauma

Ella isn’t just a therapy dog; she’s a vital part of the healing journey for clients struggling with trauma. Many clients who experience PTSD find traditional therapy overwhelming, but Ella’s presence acts as an anchor in moments of emotional distress. One such client, who had difficulty speaking about their trauma, found comfort in petting Ella during their sessions. “When I couldn’t speak, I’d just reach for her, and it felt like she was taking away some of my pain,” they explained.

Why Choose Animal-Assisted Therapy at CRC?

There are many benefits to incorporating animal-assisted therapy into mental health treatment plans. At CRC, we’ve seen firsthand how the inclusion of animals like Ella helps clients:

• Feel less anxious and more relaxed: Ella’s calming energy naturally helps reduce anxiety, making it easier for clients to engage in therapy.
• Open up more quickly: Clients, especially children, often find it easier to talk when Ella is present. Her non-judgmental nature creates a space of trust and safety.
• Stay present in sessions: For clients who experience dissociation or have trouble staying grounded during difficult discussions, Ella helps them remain connected to the moment.

How Ella Helps CRC Stand Out

What makes CRC different from other counseling services is our dedication to using innovative and compassionate approaches, like animal-assisted therapy. Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and for some people, the traditional talk therapy model can feel daunting. Ella bridges the gap between clients and their healing process, offering non-verbal support in a way that words cannot.

Ella’s role as a therapy dog shows how diverse and flexible mental health care can be. Whether it’s her gentle presence during a grief counseling session or her calming energy during family therapy, Ella embodies what we stand for at CRC—helping clients find comfort, understanding, and a path forward.

How You Can Benefit from Therapy with Ella

If you’re looking for a unique approach to managing anxiety, depression, or stress, animal-assisted therapy could be a great fit for you. Whether it’s anxiety holding you back or life transitions causing uncertainty, Ella is ready to help guide you through. At CRC, we believe that healing happens in different ways for different people, and for many, that means having Ella by their side. Book your session with CRC today and let Ella help you on your healing journey.