Parker the Therapy Dog
Meet Parker
Parker is my four-legged co-therapist, emotional support team, and constant companion. He’s a gentle golden retriever with a big heart, a goofy side, and an endless love for being around people. Whether he's curled up on the floor or sneaking in for an unsolicited kiss, making his happy growl, Parker brings a sense of warmth and connection that’s hard to put into words. He just provides something that I can’t quite ever do.
He has spent many hours being trained for therapy dog work. He has passed a therapy dog assessment through Pets & Friends, where we’ve volunteered together, providing comfort and companionship in community settings. Parker has also passed his American Kennel Club’s (AKC) Canine Good Citizen test and has even worked on film sets with an appearance in a PetSmart Ad.
Parker’s Role in Therapy
Parker’s role is mostly about presence. His calm, steady energy can help soften the space, support nervous system regulation, and offer a quiet kind of companionship. Sometimes, especially with young people, he’s a little more active by joining in through touch, play, or movement. He tends to intuit when someone needs extra closeness and is known to offer head smushes, lean into legs for grounding cuddles, and yes, sometimes deliver an uninvited but well-meant kiss.
When you first meet him, you might get a goofy greeting (happy tail wags and maybe a joyful growl or two), but he usually settles into the space pretty quickly. His favorite thing is just being near people—sharing space, offering comfort, and being his loving, slightly ridiculous self.
Why Dogs in Therapy?
If you’re curious about how dogs like Parker support therapy, I wrote a blog post exploring the role of canine-assisted therapy and the healing power of the human-animal bond. Give it a read if you're wondering why some people find it easier to open up with a dog nearby, or how Parker might be part of your journey.
How Does Parker Show Up in Session?
Every session is different, and Parker tends to take the lead from you. This short video gives a little glimpse into how Parker is integrated into in-person sessions. He’s attuned, respectful (mostly…aside from wanting to be as close as possible), and always happy to be part of the process in whatever way feels supportive.
