The Gentle Paw · Our Services
Healing that honors
the human-animal bond
Specialized therapeutic services for those navigating grief, fear, connection, and the profound emotional world we share with animals.
Schedule a ConsultationWhat We Do
A practice built around
the bond that matters most
The Gentle Paw is a specialized counseling practice offering evidence-informed, animal-assisted therapeutic services. Whether you're grieving the loss of a beloved pet, working through fear, welcoming a new animal into a home with children, or seeking the healing power of animal connection, we meet you exactly where you are.
Most of our services are available virtually. Animal-Assisted Counseling is offered in person at our Nyack, NY location.
Our Services
08 offerings
Virtual & In-Person
01
Pet Loss & Grief Support
The loss of a companion animal is a profound grief that deserves to be witnessed and honored. We provide compassionate support as you navigate this often misunderstood loss.
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Virtual Available
02
ESA Evaluation
Emotional Support Animal evaluations conducted by a licensed therapist. We assess your therapeutic need and provide documentation to support your housing and travel needs.
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In-Person · NY & CT
03
Exposure Work: Fear of Dogs
Structured, evidence-based exposure therapy to help you gradually overcome fear and anxiety around dogs, at a pace that feels safe and empowering for you.
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In-Person · Nyack, NY
04
Animal-Assisted Psychotherapy
Therapy sessions intentionally incorporating animal partners to facilitate emotional processing, build trust, and deepen the therapeutic experience in meaningful ways.
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Assessment & Support
05
Child Aggression Toward Animals: Assessment & Support
Compassionate assessment and therapeutic support for families navigating concerns about a child's behavior toward animals, addressing the whole child and family system.
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Small Hands, Gentle Paws
Bringing a pet home to a child, especially one who feels nervous around animals? We help your family prepare at your child's pace: building comfort, reading an animal's body language, and shaping routines where child and animal can both feel safe.
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Therian Identity Support
A nonjudgmental, affirming space for therians and the people who love them. We support identity exploration and self-acceptance, navigating stigma or bullying, communication with family, and the stress or anxiety that can come along the way.
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Group Programs
Small, clinician-led groups centered on the human-animal bond, including pet loss, anticipatory grief, ESA connection, a Spanish-language grief group, and compassion fatigue support for animal care workers. Complete a short screening to join.
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The right support
is closer than you think
Whether you're grieving, healing, or simply ready for something different, we'd be honored to walk alongside you.