Elevate Your Clinical Practice with Canine-Assisted Behavioral Skills
Integrate your therapy dog into individual sessions using trauma-informed, relationship-focused methodology. Earn 12 CEs through our comprehensive 3-day training.
CIC is a pre-approved continuing education provider for the Minnesota Board of Social Work
This course is specifically designed for licensed clinicians (Social Workers, Psychologists, Counselors, Therapists, etc) who want to move beyond traditional "pet therapy" and utilize their dog as a dynamic therapeutic tool. You will learn the Canine Inspired Change (CIC) methodology, focusing on social-emotional learning, self-regulation, and the human-canine bond.
April 17, 18, & 19, 2026
Friday, April 17 : 12pm - 4pm
Saturday, April 18 : 12pm - 4pm
Sunday, April 19 : 12pm - 2pm
Location: CIC HQ 2300 Myrtle Ave, Suite 230 St. Paul, MN 55114
Financial investment: $425
In need of financial support? Scholarships are available, Click here to to apply.
What You’ll Learn:
The Science & Theory: Understand and explore different therapeutic approaches for animal-assisted therapy (AAT) and learn how it impacts human emotion regulation.
Practical Skills: See how dog training skills can help develop confidence in your patients, and learn how to build mindfulness and groundedness for both client and dog.
Structure: Learn positioning models during practice, as well as intentional spatial setup within your office during sessions.
Clinical Application: Adapt your approach for specific diagnoses, including ADHD, autism, selective mutism, and PTSD.
Trauma-Informed Care: Implement boundaries and positive redirection, ensuring a safe, non-judgmental environment for both the youth and the dog.
Training Schedule:
Day 1: Introduction to CIC methodology, trauma-informed practices, and foundational training connection skills.
Day 2: Session structuring, mindfulness techniques, and role-playing with CIC dogs.
Day 3: Advanced practice with youth volunteers and mock 1:1 therapy sessions. Your own Therapy Dog is eligible to attend this session!
Completion:
Successful completion of CIC’s Clinician’s Course will result in a certificate of completion from the event speakers. Additional materials received include a guidebook, supporting video and online trainings, and a follow up meeting with speakers after implementation in your practice.
