When it comes to animal-assisted interventions (AAI), there are several AAI delivery methods to consider. The two most common models are the Triangle Model and the Diamond Model.
Triangle Model
Just like its name suggests, the Triangle Model is an AAI delivery method that involves three parties: the client, the animal, and the practitioner.In this case, the practitioner both leads the session and handles the animal. Their challenge is staying aware while balancing the needs of the animal and the client. The triangle model can be a great option for solo practitioners, particularly in fields where you may discuss sensitive topics like mental health counseling.
Diamond Model
The Diamond Model is an AAI delivery method that introduces a fourth party: a handler. Here, the handler’s job is to advocate for the animal. They partner with the practitioner to provide therapeutic interactions. The practitioner designs those interactions based on the client’s needs and goals. The Diamond Model works well for group settings or busy environments where it’s harder for a practitioner to juggle multiple roles and divide their attention.
Wondering which model is right for your work? Let’s take a look at some common scenarios weighing the pros and cons of the two different models.
I don’t have my own therapy dog.
Maybe you’re just looking into bringing a therapy animal into your practice, or you’ve had a therapy dog of your own in the past. In either case, partnering with a volunteer or paraprofessional handler using the Diamond Model could be a great option. With the handler taking care of the animal, you can focus on designing the right intervention for your client.
I counsel sexual assault survivors.
Sometimes, certain populations may not be comfortable having another person in the room during sessions. This makes Triangle Model a great choice. Just be sure your space allows the therapy animal to take breaks when they’re tired. To use the Triangle Model here, you need to feel confident that you can balance the needs of your animal and your client.
I lead group talk therapy sessions.
In some cases, the Triangle Model might work just fine. In others, the Diamond Model might work better. Consider the following questions to decide on the right model for your group:
- How many people will be interacting with the therapy dog?
- Will sessions be structured or unstructured?
- Can participants follow directions to give the animal space as needed?
If you think you’ll need more oversight, having a handler present may offer better protection for the animal and improve the chances of success in your session.
I work in a school.
Schools can be great places to bring therapy animals. But just like with group therapy sessions, they’re dynamic places with lots of variables to consider. There should be a retreat space for your animal, and they should be able to go outside on breaks when they need to. If that’s not possible, it’s in your animal’s best interest to use the Diamond Model. However, there are some school-based professionals who can take a different approach. For school-based counselors or speech language pathologists who work in small groups or one-on-one with students, a Triangle Model might work perfectly.
I’m an occupational therapist and I think a therapy dog might motivate my clients during their individual sessions.
There’s research to prove it. With a therapy animal in session, you can do more than just increase physical activity. Clients may be more likely to comply with treatment programs with a therapy animal present. From brushing a dog to work on range of motion, to unbuckling collars for fine motor skill practice, many OTs find creative ways to enhance sessions with therapy animals. If you have an appropriate animal, the Triangle Method could work well.
My client prefers cats, but I’m more of a dog person.
If your client connects more with a species that you’re not as familiar with, the Diamond Model may be the right choice. Look for an existing cat therapy animal team and see if they could partner with you. You know your client and your know the reasons why a cat is a good fit. Partner with the team to create an intervention that is safe and effective. Rely on the handler to be knowledgeable about what appropriate interactions might look like for their cat, and make sure you’re aware of Best Practices in Therapy Animal Handling, too.
I feel overwhelmed by the responsibility of AAI.
That’s understandable! Not only that, but it’s also a sign that you care about doing this work ethically and professionally. Whether you work with your own animal using the Triangle Model or partner with a handler using the Diamond Model, you’ll need to create a program manual and appropriate documentation to support your work. If you want to use the power of the human-animal bond in your work but aren’t ready to have an animal on-site, you might explore Animal-Related Engagement (ARE). ARE brings the comfort and healing of animals through alternate activities like video, arts and crafts, and reading. This approach can remind participants of the feeling of being with an animal without having one present.
Both the Triangle Model and Diamond Model are AAI delivery methods that can support ethical and effective animal-assisted interventions. It’s up to you to consider all the factors in your work to decide which model is right for you and your client. No matter which you choose, AAAIP is here to support your journey with resources, education, and a professional community committed to doing this work the right way.