Animal Assisted Group Therapist
$70,000–$75,000 year
On-siteCamdenton, Missouri, United States
Job Summary
Conduct six group therapy sessions weekly while overseeing daily operations, including verifying animal-assisted activities and ensuring safety for students, canines, and staff. Lead canine training by creating and facilitating team, individual, and emergency sessions, providing in-the-moment coaching and support for therapist requests. Build strong relationships with students and families through policy-compliant one-on-ones, transitions, and enrollment meetings. Manage canine health and safety by responding to crisis calls, administering treatments, handling waste, and maintaining clean therapy spaces. Document progress in the EMR, update The Family Bridge with photos and blogs, and produce newsletters. Maintain inventory for grooming and cleanup supplies, organize the canine office, and oversee supply ordering. Work independently in fast-paced situations, cover weekend shifts as needed, and participate in on-call rotations for animal emergencies.
Required Qualifications
- At least 24 years old
- Able to pass a criminal background check
- Master's in Psychology, Counseling, Social Work, or a related field
- Licensed or provisionally licensed therapist in State of Missouri: Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT), Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Psychologist (PhD or PsyD), Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT), Associate Clinical Social Worker (ASW), or Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC)
- Documented prior experience in providing therapeutic services, especially in group therapy
- Strong communication, relationship-building, and coaching skills
- Comfortable and confident working with dogs
- Able to work independently
- Willing to work weekends as needed and be on call for animal emergencies
- Able to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods
- Carry objects with full arm mobility
- Lift up to 45lbs
- Bend, kneel, stoop, or crouch as required for Safe Crisis Management (SCM) procedures
Desired Qualifications
- Hands-on experience with canines, students, and families
- Strong understanding of the Calo CASA model
- Developmental science knowledge
- Brain-based therapeutic practices knowledge
- Natural customer-first mindset
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