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Freeman Recovery Center operates multiple rehab facilities across Tennessee, providing a supportive and welcoming environment for your recovery. If you’re looking for animal-assisted therapy programs in Nashville or nearby areas, our centers can help you heal and rebuild your life.

At Freeman Drug and Alcohol Addiction Center, you’ll find treatment options for substance abuse, mental health conditions, and dual diagnosis challenges. We offer pet-friendly rehab programs, incorporating animal-assisted therapy to enhance your recovery experience through the comfort and support of therapy animals. If you’ve been searching for “animal-assisted therapy near me,” call us at (615) 645-3677 to learn more about our programs and how we can help you regain control of your life.

What Is Animal-Assisted Therapy for Addiction Recovery in Tennessee?

Animal-assisted therapy for addiction recovery in Tennessee combines the healing presence of therapy animals with evidence-based treatments. This approach uses animals like therapy dogs and horses to promote emotional healing, reduce stress, and improve mental health during your recovery. Through pet interactions, you can build trust, emotional stability, and motivation to stay committed to your recovery goals.

Freeman Recovery Center integrates animal-assisted interventions into our comprehensive treatment programs for substance abuse, mental health conditions, and dual diagnosis care. This unique form of therapy fosters the animal-human bond, enhancing your overall well-being and recovery experience. If you have other questions related like, “What is animal-assisted therapy?” reach out to Freeman Alcohol and Drug Addiction Center.

Statistics on Animal-Assisted Therapy for Substance Abuse 

Statistics on Animal-Assisted Therapy for Substance Abuse 

Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) is having significant effects in Tennessee, with studies showing that it improves patient participation, especially in stroke rehabilitation. The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s research highlights how AAT boosts engagement in therapy, leading to better physical recovery and emotional well-being. 

The HABIT program, through the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, has over 980 volunteers working with 205 facilities across the state, bringing therapy animals into various rehabilitation settings. These animals help reduce anxiety, depression, and stress, fostering a sense of unconditional love and acceptance. A 2018 study supports this, revealing that animal interactions trigger positive biochemical responses, enhancing mood and reducing stress levels, making AAT an effective tool for recovery and mental health in Tennessee.

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Pet-Friendly Drug and Alcohol Rehab Facility Available Near Nashville, TN

Finding a pet-friendly drug and alcohol rehab facility near Nashville, TN, can make a significant difference in your recovery. If you’re searching terms like “animal-assisted therapy near me,” Freeman Recovery Center can help. Our locations in Dickson and Burns offer options to bring your pet for added emotional support. Call us at (615) 645-3677 to get started on your recovery.

Animal-Assisted Therapy in Dickson

At Freeman Recovery Center’s facility at 222 State St., Dickson, TN 37055, you can experience the benefits of animal-assisted therapy within a short distance of Nashville. Through our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), and outpatient programming, we integrate therapeutic animals to support your recovery from addiction and mental health challenges.

Animal-Assisted Therapy in Burns

Freeman Recovery Center’s conveniently located detoxification and residential inpatient facility at 1615 Highway 96, Burns, TN 37029, allows you to benefit from animal-assisted rehabilitation as part of your recovery. Our programs provide a supportive environment in the neighborhood where companion animals help promote emotional healing and reduce stress.

Check Your Insurance for Animal-Assisted Therapy

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    What Is a Pet-Friendly Rehab Center for Drug and Alcohol Addiction?

    A pet-friendly rehab center for drug and alcohol addiction allows you to bring your companion animals. These facilities recognize the therapeutic benefits of animal companionship, offering a comforting and familiar presence during a challenging time. With pet-assisted therapy and animal-assisted interventions, your recovery process can include the emotional support and unconditional love of your pet.

    At Freeman Substance Abuse Recovery Center in Tennessee, we provide pet therapy options to help you heal in an environment that values the animal-human bond. Your pet can participate in your recovery, creating a sense of normality and boosting emotional resilience.

    Are Pets Allowed in Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers Across Tennessee?

    Some drug and alcohol rehab centers across Tennessee allow pets, while others do not. Pet-friendly facilities understand the importance of animal therapy in the recovery process. Bringing your pet can provide emotional support and a comforting connection during substance abuse and mental health treatment.

    At Freeman Recovery Center, we understand the value of animal therapy for mental health and substance abuse recovery. We offer pet-friendly rehab options designed to enhance your treatment experience. If you’re considering bringing your pet, call us at (615) 645-3677. We’ll discuss your needs and help you determine if our programs fit you and your companion animal.

    How Does Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) Improve Outcomes for Alcohol and Drug Addiction?

    Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) can significantly improve outcomes for alcohol and drug addiction by fostering emotional healing and reducing stress. Activities like dog therapy or equine therapy help you build trust, enhance self-esteem, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. These interactions with therapy animals create a calming and supportive environment, encouraging you to stay engaged in your recovery.

    Not all rehab centers offer AAT, but Freeman Recovery Center in Tennessee incorporates animal-assisted counseling into its comprehensive treatment programs. If you’re curious about how animal-assisted activities can benefit your recovery or want to explore pet-friendly rehab options, we’re here to help. Contact us to learn more about substance abuse and mental health animal therapy in your immediate area.


    Freeman Recovery Center accepts most major insurance providers

    Check Your Insurance Coverage

    Will Health Insurance Pay for Pet-Friendly Rehab Facilities in Tennessee?

    Depending on your specific plan and provider, health insurance may cover some or all of the costs for pet-friendly rehab facilities in Tennessee. Many plans include benefits for addiction treatment, such as detoxification, residential care, or outpatient programs, but coverage for pet-friendly rehab may vary. Pet-assisted therapy and related services might also be covered under behavioral health benefits.

    Freeman Addiction Recovery Center works with you to determine your insurance benefits and explore payment options for canine therapy, equine therapy, and other pet-friendly rehab programs. Bringing your companion animal and having pet interactions can enhance your recovery experience, and we’re here to make the process easier.

    Will Health Insurance Cover Animal Therapy Treatment for Addiction Recovery Near Nashville, TN?

    Health insurance may cover animal therapy treatment for addiction recovery in proximity to Nashville, TN, depending on your plan and the specific facility. Many insurance plans contain coverage for addiction treatment, but coverage for animal therapy for mental health and substance abuse treatment may not always be guaranteed. You’ll want to check with Freeman Recovery Center to understand what’s covered.

    At Freeman Recovery Center, we incorporate animal-assisted therapy, such as dog therapy or horse therapy, into our treatment programs, providing additional support for your recovery. Contact us to verify your benefits and explore coverage for local animal therapy services.

    How Much Does Animal-Assisted Therapy and Rehab Cost Without Insurance Across Tennessee?

    The cost of animal-assisted therapy and rehab without insurance can vary significantly across Tennessee, depending on the type of care facility and the services offered. On average, you may expect to pay between $100 and $200 per session for animal therapy, with additional costs for room and board if you’re receiving residential treatment. 

    Many rehab centers, including Freeman Recovery Center, also offer packages or sliding-scale fees that can reduce the overall cost. It’s important to discuss pricing with the facility beforehand to understand all potential costs. If you’re considering close-by animal-assisted therapy as part of your treatment, help is within reach. Contact us for more information on geographically close rehab options and pricing.

    What Does Animal Therapy Assist With in Addiction Recovery?

    Animal therapy plays a valuable role in addiction recovery by providing emotional support, reducing stress, and fostering a sense of connection. Therapy animals help address various mental and physical challenges, improving overall well-being during treatment. Below, we’ll explore the specific areas animal therapy assists with, such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and more.

    Coping Mechanisms for Substance Abuse Recovery

    Coping Mechanisms for Substance Abuse Recovery

    Coping mechanisms are crucial in substance abuse recovery, helping you manage triggers, cravings, and stress. Strategies like mindfulness, deep breathing, and support groups can enhance your resilience. Animal therapy, with its calming and supportive presence, also plays a role in helping you navigate emotional challenges and stay focused on your recovery goals.

    Depression and Enhancing Mood

    Depression and Enhancing Mood

    Dealing with depression during recovery can be challenging, but there are ways to improve your mood and overall well-being. Activities like exercise, mindfulness, and therapy can boost your mental health. Pet bonding, in particular, can provide comfort and emotional support, helping you feel more connected and uplifted during your recovery.

    Anxiety and Managing Stress

    Anxiety and Managing Stress

    Managing anxiety and stress during recovery is essential for your overall well-being. Practices like deep breathing, meditation, and regular physical activity can help reduce tension. Animal therapy is also beneficial, offering comfort and support to calm your mind and reduce anxiety. Incorporating such strategies into your recovery routine can improve your ability to cope with stress.

    Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms

    Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms

    Post-traumatic stress symptoms can be overwhelming during recovery, but there are ways to manage them. Techniques like grounding exercises, mindfulness, and therapy can help you regain control. Animal therapy for mental health can also play a crucial role, providing comfort and emotional support to ease distress. These approaches allow you to navigate trauma and build resilience throughout your healing process.

    Autism Spectrum Disorders 

    Autism Spectrum Disorders 

    If you’re managing autism spectrum disorders during recovery, developing coping strategies is key. Approaches like structured routines, sensory-friendly environments, and mindfulness techniques can support your well-being. Substance abuse and mental health animal therapy can also be incredibly beneficial. These strategies create a supportive space to enhance your recovery and overall mental health.

    Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

    Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

    Managing Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) during recovery can be challenging, but certain strategies can help. Structuring your environment, breaking tasks into smaller steps, and practicing mindfulness can improve focus. Animal therapy is also beneficial, offering emotional support and helping you stay calm and centered. These techniques help you stay on track and maintain progress throughout your recovery.

    Physical Disabilities and Mobility Support

    Physical Disabilities and Mobility Support

    If you’re managing physical disabilities and mobility challenges during recovery, it’s important to find support that works for you. Adaptive strategies like assistive devices, physical therapy, and tailored exercise programs can improve mobility. Pet-friendly rehab can also provide support, offering emotional comfort and helping with tasks. These approaches can enhance your recovery and help you stay engaged in your recovery.

    Chronic Pain Relief and Management

    Chronic Pain Relief and Management

    Managing chronic pain during recovery can be difficult, but there are strategies to help. Techniques like physical therapy, relaxation exercises, and medication can provide relief. Animal therapy can offer emotional support and reduce physical tension. Incorporating these approaches into your recovery can improve pain management and enhance your overall well-being.


    Happy dog is being hugged owner in animal therapy

    Skills Improvement & Animal-Assisted Therapy Within the State of Tennessee

    Animal-assisted therapy in Tennessee offers a unique opportunity to improve essential skills during recovery. By interacting with therapy animals, you can develop and enhance skills like self-care, social interaction, and communication. Below are a few ways animal therapy can positively affect these areas, supporting your personal growth and healing.

    Improved Self-Care

    Improved Self-Care

    Animal-assisted therapy can significantly improve your self-care during recovery. You can develop a sense of routine and responsibility through pet bonding, enhancing your daily self-care habits. The emotional support animals provide also encourages you to prioritize your well-being, helping you stay motivated to take care of yourself in all respects.

    Increased Social Skills

    Increased Social Skills

    Animal-assisted therapy can help improve your social skills during recovery by providing opportunities to engage with others in a non-judgmental, supportive environment. Interacting with therapy animals and fellow participants encourages communication, empathy, and trust-building. These positive interactions can help you feel more confident in social situations, improving your ability to form healthy relationships.

    Increased Communication Skills

    Increased Communication Skills

    Animal-assisted therapy can help enhance your communication skills by encouraging interaction with therapy animals and others in a supportive setting. These sessions promote non-verbal communication, empathy, and active listening. The calming presence of therapy animals helps reduce anxiety, making it easier for you to express yourself openly, improving both verbal and non-verbal communication in your recovery.

    Increased Self-Control and Lowered Impulsivity

    Increased Self-Control and Lowered Impulsivity

    Animal-assisted therapy can help you develop increased self-control and lower impulsivity during recovery. Interacting with therapy animals encourages patience, mindfulness, and thoughtful decision-making. The calming presence of animals helps you manage emotional responses, allowing you to pause and reflect before reacting impulsively. This enhanced self-awareness can support your progress in recovery and improve emotional regulation.


    What Animals Are Used for Therapy and Rehab Treatment at Facilities in Tennessee?

    Various animals are used in therapy and rehab treatment at your nearest facilities in Tennessee, each offering unique benefits while you’re in recovery. These animals provide emotional support, comfort, and companionship. Below are some of the different types of animals commonly involved in therapy, such as service animals, therapy animals, and outdoor pets, and how they support your recovery process.

    Service Animals

    Service Animals

    Service animals are vital in supporting your recovery by offering assistance tailored to your needs. Whether helping with mobility, emotional support, or anxiety management, service animals provide essential companionship and support throughout your recovery. Their presence helps enhance your independence and well-being, creating a stable environment for your healing process.

    Therapy Animals

    Therapy Animals

    Therapy animals offer emotional support and comfort during your recovery. These animals are trained to interact with you in therapeutic settings, helping reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The companionship they provide can improve your mood and foster a sense of connection. Engaging with therapy animals enhances your emotional well-being and supports your overall recovery.

    Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)

    Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)

    Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) provide comfort and emotional stability during your recovery. These animals are not trained for specific tasks like service animals but offer companionship to help reduce anxiety, depression, and stress. Mental health animal therapy can significantly affect your emotional well-being and overall recovery progress.

    Small and Non-Allergenic Pets

    Small and Non-Allergenic Pets

    Small and non-allergenic pets can be a great addition to your recovery, offering companionship without triggering allergies. Pets like fish, rabbits, or hypoallergenic dogs provide comfort, reduce stress, and help improve your mood. Their manageable size and calming presence make them ideal for maintaining emotional support while promoting a sense of routine and responsibility in your recovery.

    Outdoor Pets

    Outdoor Pets

    Outdoor pets, such as cats, chickens, or even goats, can offer a unique form of support during your recovery. Caring for these animals can provide a sense of responsibility and routine, while their presence in nature helps reduce stress. Interacting with outdoor pets fosters a connection to the environment, promoting relaxation and a sense of purpose in your recovery process.


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    What Is the Typical Treatment Process for Animal-Assisted Therapy Programs in Tennessee?

    The treatment process for animal-assisted therapy programs in Tennessee typically involves a structured approach designed to support your recovery. These localized programs integrate therapy animals into your treatment plan, enhancing emotional well-being and providing comfort. The process can vary depending on the treatment facility, but it generally includes specific steps to ensure the therapy is effective in aiding your recovery.

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with Animal Support: This method combines traditional CBT with the presence of a therapy animal, helping you challenge negative thought patterns while experiencing the calming effect of the animal. The animal’s presence can reduce anxiety, allowing for deeper engagement in therapy.
    • Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): MBSR techniques, such as breathing exercises and meditation, are paired with animal interactions to promote relaxation and present-moment awareness. The therapy animal can help anchor you in the moment, making it easier to focus on reducing stress and improving emotional regulation.
    • Animal-Assisted Play Therapy: Often used with children or if you are in early recovery, this method incorporates animals into therapeutic play to address emotional and psychological challenges. The animal’s presence encourages trust and openness, making it easier for you to express feelings and process trauma.
    • Equine-Assisted Therapy: This therapy involves working with horses to improve emotional regulation, communication, and interpersonal skills. Horses are used for their non-judgmental nature, helping you build confidence and address issues like anxiety, depression, or trauma.
    • Canine-Assisted Therapy: In canine-assisted therapy, trained dogs help you navigate difficult emotions and situations. The dogs offer unconditional support, assisting in improving mood, enhancing communication, and fostering a sense of comfort and safety during recovery sessions.
    • Pet-Assisted Therapy for Socialization: Animals, particularly dogs, are integrated into group therapy settings to facilitate social interaction and reduce isolation. A pet’s presence can make it easier to engage with others and encourage the development of communication and social skills.

    Statistics and Information for Animal-Assisted Therapy Programs

    Statistics and Information for Animal-Assisted Therapy Programs in Tennessee

    • A study published by the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga found Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) significantly improved stroke patient participation. This demonstrated AAT enhances engagement in rehabilitation, which can lead to better outcomes in both physical recovery and emotional well-being.
    • A Frontiers in Veterinary Science study identified three organizations in Tennessee that deliver animal-assisted interventions and train, register, and evaluate therapy dogs.
    • The University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine’s Human-Animal Bond in Tennessee, or HABIT, program has 980 active volunteers working with 205 facilities.
    • Pets reduce anxiety and depression symptoms and allow people to experience unconditional love and acceptance, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
    • A 2018 study revealed seeing and touching animals can trigger higher levels of endorphins, serotonin, and oxytocin, and reduce cortisol levels, according to PsychCentral.
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