Providing Animal-Assisted Learning to children and adults in Gold Coast – Paradise Point, Helensvale & Tweed Heads

Nurturing Growth Through Animal-Assisted Learning

Discover the transformative power of companionship at Steps Therapy, where we harness the unique bond between animals and humans to foster personal growth through our Animal-Assisted Learning. 

Animal-Assisted Learning: What We Do

Learn about how we can help

At Steps Therapy, we understand that each individual’s journey towards personal growth is unique. Our bespoke animal-assisted learning sessions are designed to engage and inspire individuals.

Nestled on the banks of Paradise Point, and extending our services to Helensvale and Tweed Heads, we bring a refreshing approach to allied health and educational goals.

Our clients are introduced to the gentle companionship of our therapy dogs, Sunny and Otee, who play a pivotal role in revitalising allied health and educational goals.

Happy disabled boy in wheelchair laughing with Animal-Assisted Therapy dog

Our Animal-Assisted Learning Services

Supporting you to reach your goals

Starting on a journey towards your goals can be challenging, but with Steps Therapy, you’re not alone. Our individualised animal-assisted learning programs are more than just sessions; they are stepping stones towards achieving your ambitions. We channel our passion and expertise as special education teachers into creating a nurturing environment where learning needs are not just met, but exceeded.

Animal-Assisted Therapy dog sitting on couch next to boy with down syndrome using laptop during Animal-Assisted Therapy & Teaching session

Animal-Assisted Learning

All ages

We offer a unique approach to learning and healing for all ages, where our therapy dogs, Sunny and Otee, enhance each session with their comforting presence.

Young boy sitting at desk reading book

Special
Needs Tutoring

All ages

Customised tutoring for all ages, to strengthen foundational literacy and numeracy, complemented by the encouraging presence of a therapy dog to achieve targeted learning goals.

Happy young girl cuddling golden labradoodle Animal-Assisted Therapy dog

Early Childhood Intervention

Under 9 years old

Tailored support for young children, with a family-centred approach that aligns with the child’s existing therapeutic goals and the family’s vision.

litter puppy image

Stay & Train Puppy Program

FOR BREEDERS

Your litters will get gentle, age-appropriate socialisation that is vital for young pups.

Pups learn foundational life skills for ongoing obedience training.

Best beginnings for prospective Assistance, Therapy and Companion Dogs.

 

Happy woman sitting in the background holding lead of happy dog in the forefront of the image

Dog Training for Community Access

For you and your dog

Do you have a companion dog at home who you would love to work with? We can work with you and your dog to help build your own relationship.

Companions in Healing

Every step forward is a paw print on the path to happiness

Two happy labradoodle Animal-Assisted Therapy dogs

Understanding AAL

What is Animal-Assisted Learning?

Animal-Assisted Learning (AAL) is a revolutionary approach that integrates the innate qualities of animals into the therapeutic process to achieve psychological and physical benefits. 

At Steps Therapy, AAL is not merely a service we provide; it’s a carefully orchestrated experience that brings about transformational changes in individuals with special learning needs. 

Our therapy dogs, Sunny and Otee, are not just pets; they are trained companions who actively participate in sessions designed to address and support clients’ goals.

Enjoy the benefits

Why AAL is so good

At Steps Therapy, we witness the daily miracles that occur when our clients interact with Sunny and Otee. The presence of these gentle creatures can transform learning into a more inviting and less daunting task. 

The reasons for AAL’s effectiveness are manifold; it promotes relaxation, decreases isolation, encourages communication, and offers unconditional acceptance. Our clients often find a sense of companionship and non-judgemental support that is sometimes lacking in human-only interactions. 

The therapy dogs are trained to be sensitive to the clients’ needs, providing a comforting presence that can lead to significant breakthroughs in sessions. 

This approach is especially beneficial for clients with special learning needs, as it offers an alternative pathway to achieving allied health and learning goals that are engaging, enjoyable, and profoundly effective. 

Young disabled girl with down syndrome sitting on floor reading a book with support worker and Animal-Assisted Therapy dog

Our pawesome doggo's

Meet the team

Sunny and Otee are not just therapy dogs; they are the heart and soul of Steps Therapy. With their wagging tails and soothing presence, they welcome each client into a world where learning is interspersed with joy and comfort.

Happy animal-assisted therapy dog chocolate labradoodle sitting outside happily with Steps Therapy bandana

Sunny

Sunny, a sociable 6-year-old black-silver labradoodle, delights in companionship and learning new tricks for her favourite veggie treats.

Happy animal-assisted therapy dog golden labradoodle sitting outside happily with Steps Therapy bandana

Otee

Otee, our 4-year-old golden labradoodle, is a gentle soul who loves playtime and will happily settle down with her head on your feet after a session of tricks for vegetable rewards.

Image of Tammy with animal-assisted therapy dogs, Otee and Sunny, sitting outside

Our founder

Get to know Tammy

Tammy is the visionary behind Steps Therapy, a special education teacher with a profound understanding of the unique learning needs of her clients. Her journey into animal-assisted learning was born out of a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of the human-animal bond. 

Certified as a therapy-dog handler and with extensive studies in dog training, Tammy brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her practice.

Contact Us

Get In Touch

We are always available to discuss our unique animal-assisted learning services, provide more information about our programs, or schedule a session in Paradise Point, Helensvale or Tweed Heads.

Join us in a journey of learning and development as our therapy dogs, Sunny and Otee, guide you towards achieving your goals with their intuitive presence and consistent support.