HABIT
(Human Animal Bond in Tennessee)

Compassion Counseling is partnering with HABIT (Human Animal Bond in Tennessee) to provide animal assisted Interventions.  HABIT is a community group of volunteers working together to explore the circumstances and consequences of the human-animal bond and to promote this valuable bond between people and animals.  HABIT is comprised of representatives from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, volunteers from the community, and private veterinary practitioners.  Clients have the option of having our HABIT dog sit in on the therapy sessions. 

Benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy/Interventions

• Lower heartrate 
• Lower blood pressure 
• Decrease anxiety 
• Reduce sympathetic nervous system stimulation 
• Promote positive emotions 
• Lower stress hormone release 
• Increase feelings of safety 
• Improve cooperation and participation in a participant’s own recovery