Pepe Pangallo
Pronouns: He/him
Therapy Dog
Working hours:
Sometimes during Michelle’s working hours
Pepe is a 6-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who sometimes comes to work with SHIPS Psychologist Michelle Pangallo. You might encounter him in the waiting area, wagging his tail and excited to say hello to everyone or even in a therapy session. Pepe is gentle and sweet natured and loves nothing more than pats and tummy scratches. His affection and steady temperament can be soothing through challenging times. He passed his Animal assisted therapy (AAI) foundation training and certification in 2018.
How Pepe helps support therapy
Animal assisted therapy (AAT) is a type of therapy that involves animals as part of the treatment process. Having a therapy dog can be a great addition to sessions by providing some stress moderating effects and increasing comfort and openness to therapy. Research has found interactions with therapy dogs have led to a reduction in stress physiology (e.g. lowered cortisol and blood pressure) and an increase in ‘affiliative’ hormones (including oxytocin) which paired with psychotherapy can support the creation of a safe space. Responses and feelings towards animals and their reactions can also help a therapist understand themes and patterns of beliefs and behaviours in your life too, supporting the goal of building self awareness and understanding.
QUALIFICATIONS AND PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
Animal Assisted Therapy (AAI) Foundation Training (2018)