Therapy Dog Experiences
Bringing Comfort, Connection, and Calm to Counseling
At Alder Grove Counseling, we believe that healing can take many forms — sometimes, it has four paws and a wagging tail. Our therapy dogs are part of our mission to create a warm, supportive, and safe environment for clients of all ages. Whether it’s through gentle cuddles, playful interaction, or quiet companionship, therapy dogs can help make counseling sessions feel more comfortable, grounding, and effective.
The Benefits of Therapy Dogs
Therapy dogs offer more than emotional comfort — they bring scientifically supported mental health benefits that can enhance the counseling process. Studies have shown that spending time with therapy dogs can:
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Reduce anxiety and stress by lowering cortisol levels and promoting relaxation
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Boost mood through increased oxytocin (the “feel-good” hormone)
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Improve communication and social connection, especially in children and teens
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Increase self-esteem and confidence, encouraging personal growth
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Provide cognitive stimulation and help clients stay present in therapy
For many clients, therapy dogs create a sense of calm and belonging that makes it easier to open up and engage during sessions. At Alder Grove Counseling, this human-animal connection becomes an important part of emotional healing and personal discovery.
How Therapy Dogs Support the Healing Process
Our therapy dogs are trained to provide comfort without judgment. Their calming presence helps people feel seen and accepted, even when words are hard to find. For children, therapy dogs can make counseling feel less intimidating. For adults and teens, they can help relieve stress and bring a sense of lightness into emotionally challenging sessions.
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Therapy dogs can also be especially beneficial for clients working through trauma, grief, anxiety, or depression. Their steady, empathetic presence helps regulate emotions, foster trust, and create a safe foundation for healing.
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As a trauma-informed practice, Alder Grove Counseling recognizes how powerful it can be to have a supportive companion nearby. Whether you’re petting, playing, or simply sitting together, the bond with a therapy dog can gently guide clients toward emotional balance.
Meet Kona...
We’re proud to introduce Kona, our Mini Goldendoodle and newest addition to the Alder Grove Counseling team. Kona’s heart is as big as her curls — she’s affectionate, curious, and full of positive energy.
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Currently completing her therapy dog training, Kona already spreads joy wherever she goes. She enjoys cuddles, meeting new friends, and showing off her frisbee skills in her free time. Most importantly, she brings comfort and calm to our Naperville office, where she’s quickly become a favorite among clients and staff alike.
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As she continues her training, Kona embodies the compassion, playfulness, and unconditional acceptance that define our approach to therapy at Alder Grove.
Who Can Benefit from Working With Therapy Dogs?
Therapy dogs can enhance counseling for:
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Children and teens who may feel nervous or shy in therapy
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Adults managing anxiety, depression, or trauma
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Families and couples looking to strengthen emotional connection
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Clients with neurodiverse experiences, who may benefit from sensory grounding
Every client’s experience is unique, and participation in therapy dog sessions is always optional. If you’re interested, our therapists will discuss how to safely and effectively integrate a therapy dog into your treatment plan.
Experience the Healing Power of Therapy Dogs in Naperville & Downers Grove
If you’re curious about how therapy dogs can make a difference in your counseling experience, we invite you to learn more or book a session online today.
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Our team at Alder Grove Counseling proudly serves clients in Naperville and Downers Grove, offering compassionate care for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. Whether you’re seeking emotional support, healing from trauma, or simply looking for a more comfortable approach to therapy, our therapy dogs are here to help you feel calm, connected, and cared for.