From ancient literature to modern fiction and research reports in professional literature, the bond between humans and animals has been extensively documented. Although 70% of American households would vouch for the benefits of companion animals, the decision about whether to implement animal-based interventions for mental disorders is not always a simple one.

IntroductionChapter 1. A Working Partnership Between Clinicians and Therapy Dogs in the Treatment of Mental DisordersChapter 2. Understanding the variety of animal roles in the treatment of mental health conditions and clarifying the clinician's responsibilitiesChapter 3. Companion Animals in Crisis InterventionChapter 4. Companion animals involved in the treatment of at-risk and adjudicated youthChapter 5. Companion Animals in the Treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity DisorderChapter 6. Companion Animals in the Treatment of Autism Spectrum DisorderChapter 7. Companion Animals in the Treatment of DepressionChapter 8. Companion Animals in the Treatment of Stress and AnxietyChapter 9. Companion animals in the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress DisorderChapter 10. Companion animals in the Treatment of Serious Mental IllnessChapter 11. Companion Animals Assisting Patients in HospiceChapter 12. Companion Animals in the Treatment of Dementia and Aging Related ConcernsChapter 13. How Animal-Assisted Interventions May Improve Mental Health and Academic Performance of University StudentsChapter 14. How Dog Visitation Programs May be Beneficial to Hospital Patients and StaffChapter 15. How Animal-Assisted Therapy can be Incorporated to Enrich PsychotherapyConclusion