Pet-Friendly Therapy at Keystone Health Group
How the presence of animals — including our own resident therapy dog — supports emotional healing, reduces anxiety, and builds connection in recovery.
At Keystone Health Group, we believe that healing happens in community — and that community includes animals. Our pet-friendly approach to treatment recognizes the profound therapeutic value of the human-animal bond. From our resident therapy dog Murphy, who is a beloved member of the Balance Point team, to our policy of welcoming clients' own pets in appropriate circumstances, we integrate the healing presence of animals into the recovery experience. Animal-assisted therapy is supported by a growing body of research showing its benefits for anxiety, depression, trauma, and social connection.
The Science of Animal-Assisted Therapy
Interacting with animals triggers measurable physiological changes that support healing: reduced cortisol (the stress hormone), increased oxytocin (the bonding hormone), lower blood pressure, and reduced heart rate. These effects are particularly valuable in addiction treatment, where clients are often in a state of heightened stress and emotional dysregulation. The simple act of petting a dog or spending time with an animal can shift the nervous system from a state of threat and reactivity to one of calm and safety — creating a physiological foundation for therapeutic work.
Murphy: Director of Pawsitive Support
Murphy is our resident therapy dog at Balance Point and a full member of the clinical team. Murphy's role is to provide unconditional positive regard, emotional comfort, and a moment of joy and lightness in what can be an intense therapeutic environment. Clients who struggle to connect with other people often find it easier to first connect with Murphy — and that connection can become a bridge to deeper human connection and trust. Murphy is present during group activities, free time, and select therapeutic sessions.
Bringing Your Own Pet
We understand that for many clients, their pet is a source of comfort, routine, and unconditional love that is deeply important to their wellbeing. We work with clients on a case-by-case basis to accommodate pets in our residential program where clinically appropriate and practically feasible. Please contact our admissions team to discuss your specific situation — we will do everything we can to support your recovery without requiring you to be separated from a beloved companion animal.
Animal-Assisted Activities and Therapy
Beyond Murphy's daily presence, our program incorporates structured animal-assisted activities and, for appropriate clients, formal animal-assisted therapy with a credentialed handler. These activities may include visits from therapy animals, equine-assisted activities, and nature-based encounters with wildlife. All animal-assisted activities are supervised, voluntary, and integrated with clinical treatment goals.
Signs & Symptoms of Addiction
Our Treatment Approach
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my dog to treatment?
We consider pet accommodation requests on a case-by-case basis. Please contact our admissions team to discuss your situation. Factors we consider include the type and temperament of the animal, the client's clinical needs, and the practical logistics of our residential setting.
What if I am allergic to or afraid of animals?
Your comfort and safety always come first. Clients with allergies or fears related to animals are never required to interact with therapy animals. Murphy and other animals are present in specific areas of the facility, and clients who prefer to avoid animal interactions can do so without any impact on their treatment.
Is animal-assisted therapy evidence-based?
Yes. A growing body of research supports the therapeutic benefits of animal-assisted interventions for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders. While the evidence base is still developing compared to more established therapies, the benefits are well-documented and the risk of harm is minimal.
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