Certified Therapy Dog

Meet Radio, a certified therapy dog and an important member of the team at the Halliday Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness.

For many people, the presence of a gentle therapy dog can help ease anxiety, lower stress, and make it easier to relax in the therapy space. Radio offers quiet companionship and warmth, which can be especially helpful when clients are navigating difficult emotions or conversations.

At the Halliday Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness in North County San Diego, Radio may join sessions when clinically appropriate as part of animal-assisted therapy provided by our clinician, Michael Epstein at our Del Mar office at the Hacienda Building. Participation is always optional, and clients can choose whether they would like the therapy dog present during their session.

Radio has already become a beloved part of our community, and we’re grateful for the comfort and connection he brings to our practice.

The Benefits of Therapy Dogs

Animal-assisted therapy has been shown to support emotional wellbeing in a number of ways. For many clients, the presence of a therapy dog can:

• Help reduce anxiety and stress
• Create a calming and welcoming environment
• Support emotional regulation during difficult conversations
• Make therapy feel more approachable and less intimidating
• Encourage connection, comfort, and a sense of safety

For some individuals, especially those experiencing anxiety, trauma, or emotional overwhelm, the quiet companionship of a therapy dog can help make the therapeutic process feel a little easier.