The Community Guidance Center (CGC) is excited to announce the addition of a special member to our team—Watson, a 7-year-old Australian Labradoodle belonging to our psychologist, Dr. Danielle Adamsky. Watson's journey to becoming a therapy dog is a heartwarming story of hope and dedication, and his presence promises to show comfort and support to those we serve.
Watson’s story began with a search for a service dog to support a young child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). After considering various options, the decision was made to acquire a Labradoodle, known for their suitability as family pets and hypoallergenic fur. When Watson was just 2 months old, he was selected from a breeder in Philadelphia through a detailed application process. The breeder matched Watson to his new family based on their narrative and a phone interview, ensuring a perfect fit before the two met.
From the very beginning, Watson demonstrated an extraordinary sensitivity to his young companion, Tyler, who was diagnosed with ASD shortly after turning two. Despite Tyler’s often enthusiastic and sometimes rough expressions of affection, Watson showed remarkable patience and resilience. His calm demeanor and gentle nature helped him become Tyler's best friend, reinforcing the family’s decision to train Watson as a therapy dog.
To achieve certification, Watson underwent a rigorous two-week board-and-train program, where he lived with a professional trainer to learn the essential skills for therapy work. Following Watson’s training, his handler (Dr. Adamsky) also participated in training sessions to ensure an effective partnership. Together, they completed the Canine Good Citizen Test and the Therapy Dog Test with Therapy Dogs United, passing with distinction in February 2024.
Since then, Watson has been actively involved in various community activities, including volunteering at CGC, assisting the county CISM team in debriefings with children, and visiting local Head Start programs. His innate ability to sense and respond to emotional distress makes him a valuable asset in therapeutic settings. Watson provides comfort and grounding during trauma work, engages in role plays, and offers a non-threatening presence for children who may find it easier to open up to him than an adult.
Looking ahead, Watson will be integrated into the CGC office in Punxsutawney, where he will begin supporting sessions with children. The plan is to visit weekly on shorter workdays and, eventually, expand his presence to other locations, including Indiana. Additionally, there is interest in having Watson volunteer on days off to visit Psych Rehab, Alpha, and Partial programs, further extending his reach and impact.
Watson’s inclusion in CGC’s services is anticipated to enhance the support available to consumers, particularly those who may benefit from his unique therapeutic qualities. Referrals for Watson’s assistance can be made for intake and staffing situations where his presence would be beneficial. His journey is a testament to the profound connection between humans and animals and the positive difference such partnerships can make in mental health care.
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