Providing Animal-Assisted Learning to children and adults in Gold Coast – Paradise Point, Helensvale, Palm Beach
About Steps Therapy
Steps Therapy is more than just an educational service; it’s a sanctuary where learning and growth are nurtured through the companionship of therapy dogs. Located in the peaceful surrounds of Paradise Point, Steps Therapy embodies a commitment to compassionate, individualised care. Our unique approach to education, integrating the presence of our gentle canine partners, sets us apart.
The inception of Steps Therapy was driven by the recognition of the profound impact that animals can have on human well-being. We exist to provide a learning alternative that is not only effective but also heart-warming and engaging.
Our mission is to harness the special bond between humans and animals to facilitate learning and personal development. We understand that traditional education can sometimes be monotonous, which is why we offer a unique modality that incorporates the joy and comfort of interacting with therapy dogs.
Our purpose is to reignite motivation in our clients, helping them to not only work towards their goals but to find delight in the process. At Steps Therapy, we believe in the power of learning that goes beyond the conventional, one that touches the soul as much as it aids in achieving practical outcomes.
What distinguishes Steps Therapy from the rest is our bespoke, client-centred approach to animal-assisted learning. We don’t just provide a service; we craft an experience that wraps around the individual needs of each client.
With a solid foundation in special education, working with allied health, we are equipped to address a wide array of life skills and developmental goals. Our therapy dogs, Sunny and Otee, are integral to our practice, providing an alternative and highly effective motivation that resonates on a deeper emotional level.
We are committed to building a ‘team around the client’, ensuring that every session is not just about achieving goals, but also about building self-worth, dignity, and community connections. It’s this philosophy of holistic, inclusive support that sets us apart and ensures that our clients receive the very best care tailored to their unique journey.
Introducing your new furry friends at Steps Therapy, Sunny and Otee — the embodiment of unconditional love and support. These two therapy dogs are more than just animals; they are integral members of our educational team. Sunny’s vivacious spirit and Otee’s serene demeanour complement each other perfectly, providing a balanced calming experience for our clients.
Their innate ability to empathise and interact with individuals facing various challenges makes them not just pets, but healers in their own right. Each session with Sunny and Otee is an adventure, a step towards growth, and a moment of pure, unadulterated joy. They don’t just assist in the learning journey; they become companions, cheerleaders, and friends on the path to achieving your goals.
Sunny is a 5 year old labradoodle with a low-shedding black-silvery fleece coat. She loves hanging out with everyone, and is most happy if she can rest her head on your lap while you read to her. She is a quick learner and enjoys practising new tricks to receive her veggie-treat rewards.
Otee is a 3 year old labradoodle with a low-shedding golden fleece coat. Otee is a gentle little lady, with an enthusiastic nature. She is always in the mood for a game! Otee also loves her vegetables, and will practice tricks over & over, and then lie down with her head on your feet to rest.
Meet Tammy, the compassionate force behind Steps Therapy. Tammy is a registered teacher with a Bachelor degree in Education, and a Masters degree in Special and Additional Learning Needs. Tammy is a certified therapy-dog handler and has undertaken certification in dog training and Animal-Assisted Play Therapy. Tammy also volunteers to train Assistance Dogs.
With her experience in special education and allied health, Tammy’s vision for Steps Therapy emerged from her profound belief in the unique benefits that animals can bring to the learning process.
She has dedicated herself to creating a space where individuals with special needs can experience the joy and motivation that her therapy dogs, Sunny and Otee, provide.
She is not just an educator; she is a facilitator of change, someone who sees the potential in every individual and strives to unlock it. Her passion for education and growth is only matched by her commitment to her clients, making her not just a teacher, but a true companion on the journey towards achieving life’s learning goals.
Join us in a journey of healing and development as our therapy dogs, Sunny and Otee, guide you towards achieving your goals with their intuitive presence and consistent support.