Greetings!
I am a recent graduate working under supervision toward licensure, and it is one of my goals to offer CAT to my clients. I am currently working for a CMH agency, and my CCO has requested that I contact other therapists who currently utilize CAT to find out what steps they went through to be able to offer this intervention to their clients.
I currently have a 4 yr old Standard Poodle that I purchased specifically for this purpose. He was Volhard Tested at 7 weeks old and passed. He has also earned his CGC, Beginner, and Intermediate Trick Dog title through the AKC. We are currently working individually with a trainer to firm up his skills for a Pet Partners test. However, she has recommended that I start bringing him to work with me to reacclimate to working in an office (he was in my previous office for 2 years learning manners and socialization). Next year, I plan to apply to the Animal Assisted Counseling Academy in Texas. I am also looking to change my liability insurance to one that specifically covers AAT/CAT (suggestions on who you use are welcome).
I would love to talk with other individuals in private practice and working for agencies about what you have done to prepare and what requirements your agency had you meet.
Thanks!