Human & Animal Connection – Coffee & Collaboration in February

Format: Online, via Zoom

Dates: September 30, 2025

Times: 10:00-11:00 am Central

Overview: Join our community of professionals who care deeply about the human and animal connection. We explore topics affecting mental health and animal-assisted therapy, and investigate how we can improve therapeutic interventions. We are passionate about improving our skills, and understand that sustainability in this work is enhanced by camaraderie with trusted colleagues.

This program will enhance the knowledge of attendees by integrating research and theoretical content from multiple fields. By providing a supportive environment to collaborate with other professionals, the program will encourage self-reflection, cooperative consultation, and improvement of the delivery of services. Attendees will be supported in applying topics to their specific environments, professional competencies, and needs.

We consider:

• How our animal natures display in mental health services
• How our kinship with animals informs the utilization of animal-assisted therapies, particularly equine assisted services
• How our animal partners communicate with us, both about the needs of the participant and their own needs during service delivery
• And more!

Course Agenda:

• Introductions
• Review of Discussion Topics
  • 1-2 research studies and/or theoretical overview
• Group discussion/Q&A
  • Application of topics to professional contexts

Learning Objectives:
Attendees will be able to thoughtfully reflect and receive feedback from colleagues to enhance at least one specific skill or technique
Attendees will be able to incorporate curriculum topics into their professional contexts
Attendees will be able to consult and collaborate in a confidential setting
Attendees will obtain additional information, as needed, to support their work

Participants:
This program is designed for all professionals, including those in mental health and equine assisted services and more, who are passionate about the human and animal connection. It is intended to be a collaborative environment for all types of certification, education, and licensure. There are no pre-requisites.

• PATH Intl. has approved this course for a total of 1 General Education (CE) credit.
• PATH Intl. members receive a 25% discount; use the coupon code: PATH2CONNECT at check-out.

Learning Objectives:

• Attendees will be able apply mental health topics specifically to their daily work
• Attendees will be able to incorporate mental health topics into their professional contexts
• Attendees will be able to consult and collaborate in a confidential setting
• Attendees will obtain additional information, as needed, to support their work

Additional Notes:

• Course will be conducted on Zoom. Links and access details will be provided upon registration
• A reliable internet connection, and a device with video and audio capabilities are required