This thought-provoking session explores the growing interest—and emerging concerns—around the use of animals in psychotherapy. With limited guidelines and training available, the inclusion of a third, non-human presence in the therapeutic space raises ethical, relational, and practical questions.

Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist Jo Frasca will draw on her personal experience of working with a therapy dog, examining the triadic dynamic that arises, the therapist's intention, and the potential for animals to both enhance and complicate the therapeutic alliance. Clinical vignettes will illustrate key points.

Ingrid Gunby, a psychotherapist trained in the Conversational Model, will present on the ethical complexities of Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP). Drawing from a decade of experience working with her herd in North Canterbury, Ingrid will discuss the importance of horse welfare, its impact on therapeutic outcomes, and how EAP can support patients with complex trauma.

Dr Jamie Rickord will facilitate the session

Join us for a rich dialogue on the evolving role of animals in psychotherapy.

Date: Saturday, 17th of May, 2025

Time: 09:00hrs to 11:00hrs (Sydney/Melbourne Time)

Ticket:  ANZAP Members: $90, Non Members: $120, ANZAP Students: Free, Westmead Students: $40, Other Students: $60

CPD Certificate: 2 Hours

About the presenters: 

Jo Frasca is a Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist in private practice Sydney NSW. She is co-editor (with Jo Silbert) of Animals as the third in relational Psychotherapy: exploring Theory, Frame and Practice (Routledge, 2021).

Ingrid Gunby is a Conversational Model-trained psychotherapist in private practice in Ōtautahi/Christchurch, offering both talking therapy and equine-assisted psychotherapy She has worked with horses in her therapy practice for the last 10 years. She lives with her herd on a lifestyle block in North Canterbury.

Dr Jamie Rickord is a GP, psychoanalytic psychotherapist. He is a faculty member of the Complex Trauma Training Unit, University of Sydney.