MUSIC AND THERAPY DOGS ENHANCE YOUTHS' EMOTIONAL HEALTH
1/12/24, 4:00 am
Dogs have long been celebrated as humanity’s most loyal and affectionate companions. Yet beyond their role as beloved family members, professionally trained therapy dogs can play a transformative role in mental health support, offering comfort and assistance to those in need. The Rise Wise Foundation, a non-profit organisation in Hong Kong, has introduced an innovative programme titled “Animal Assisted Art and Music Therapy for Underprivileged Special Educational Needs (SEN) Youth”. This initiative integrates the therapeutic benefits of art, music and trained therapy dogs to promote emotional well-being and psychological growth in young people facing challenges.
With the support of Link Together Initiatives, Rise Wise Foundation continues to conduct therapeutic workshops in 2024/25. Employing internationally validated techniques, these workshops provide participants with a safe and relaxed environment where they could release academic and familial stress. The sessions aim to alleviate anxiety and depression while fostering self-confidence as well as emotional and mental well-being.