Animal Assisted Therapist-Allied Health

Company Description Paw Pause is a therapeutic practice dedicated to enhancing wellbeing through structured, evidence-informed animal assisted interventions. Originally based in Adelaide, SA, and now national, the organization partners qualified allied health professionals with carefully selected therapy dogs, to support clients across a range of ages and needs. Paw Pause 🐾 emphasizes ethical treatment of animals, trauma-informed practice, and individualized care plans. The team values collaboration, reflective practice, and continuous learning to deliver safe, meaningful therapeutic outcomes. Practitioners work within clear professional standards and guidelines to ensure both client and animal welfare remain central to all services.Role Description The Animal Assisted Therapist-Allied Health role is a contract, on-site position working in schools, based in SA or QLD. The therapist will provide client-centered interventions that integrate therapeutic techniques with animal assisted activities, including individual and small-group sessions, in line with the Paw Pause model. Session tasks include assessing client needs, developing and documenting learning plans, facilitating sessions that safely incorporate therapy dogs, and monitoring progress toward goals. The role involves maintaining high standards of animal welfare, coordinating with other professionals, and ensuring compliance with relevant clinical, ethical, and safety guidelines. The therapist will also complete session notes, participate in case discussions, and contribute to service development within the practice.QualificationsRelevant allied health qualification (e.g., psychology, social work, occupational therapy, counselling) and current registration or membership with an appropriate professional body.Demonstrated experience in therapeutic practice, including assessment, goal setting, and delivery of evidence-informed interventions for diverse client populations.Have a trained therapy dog, experience with animal assisted therapy or animal assisted interventions, with a strong understanding of animal behavior, welfare, and risk management.Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport, manage group dynamics, and collaborate effectively and other professionals.Commitment to trauma-informed, inclusive, and culturally responsive practice, including work with clients of varied backgrounds and abilities.Organizational and documentation skills, including accurate clinical record-keeping, safety reporting, and adherence to privacy and confidentiality requirements.Capacity to work independently on-site, manage a flexible caseload, and uphold professional boundaries within a contract engagement.Current Working with Children Check (or equivalent), national police clearance. RHANN or equivalentExperience in mental health, disability, or community services settings is highly regarded.Comfort and confidence working with therapy dogs in a clinical/school environment; willingness to follow structured protocols.