Animal-Assisted Interventions in Psychology: 2024 Magic Award Recipient Dr. Gwendolyn Barnhart

A Dream Comes to Life

For Dr. Gwendolyn Barnhart, the journey to incorporating Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAI) in psychology has been years in the making. 

“Incorporating AAI into my practice has been a long-time dream of mine,” she shared. “Animals have always held a special place in my life, bringing me immense joy and comfort. During moments of struggle or hardship, my animal companions seem to instinctively sense my emotions and uplift my spirits in ways that are truly remarkable.” 

This deep, personal connection to animals laid the foundation for a career centered on the healing power of the human-animal bond. 

Integrating Animal-Assisted Interventions into Clinical Practice

Today, Gwendolyn is a licensed clinical psychologist and the owner of a private practice based on a small hobby farm in Washington. With her animals as partners, she is creating a nurturing, farm-based environment for therapy sessions. She’s already welcoming her first clients and aims to launch the full farm-based practice soon. 

“Our AAI practice is just beginning,” she says. “I hope to expand by inviting more clients to experience regular animal-assisted interventions in psychology in this peaceful environment.” 

Gwendolyn believes that working with animals adds an experiential dimension to therapy, helping clients relax, build trust, and open up emotionally. These sessions align with holistic and integrative treatment approaches that support the mind, body, and spirit.

Why AAI Makes a Difference 

Gwendolyn sees AAI as a vital and distinctive part of her clinical approach. “Unlike traditional therapy, which often focuses on verbal exchanges or structured methods, AAI introduces a dynamic, experiential element,” she explains. “These interactions promote relaxation, connection, and emotional regulation in ways that resonate deeply with clients.” 

The presence of animals helps build trust and ease anxiety—especially important for clients who may find traditional therapeutic environments intimidating. “Animals provide a nonjudgmental presence that can make clients feel more at ease, fostering openness and engagement during sessions.”

Exploring New Frontiers: From Farm Animals to Bees

In addition to traditional therapy animals, Gwendolyn is exploring apiary therapy, combining beekeeping with AAI to promote mindfulness and reduce stress.

“The soothing, rhythmic nature of working with bees complements the grounding presence of animals,” she says.

This unique offering is one more way Gwendolyn is broadening the application of animal-assisted interventions in psychology.

AAI as a Professional Mission

Beyond her private practice, Gwendolyn also serves as the psychology services supervisor at a state psychiatric hospital. With her Certified Animal-Assisted Intervention Specialist (C-AAIS) credential, she’s working to expand access to AAI for underserved populations.

As a founder of the American Psychological Association’s Division 17 Subdivision on Human and Animal Interaction (HAI), Gwendolyn is also committed to advancing the AAI field through research and professional education. Her published work and past conference presentations highlight the positive impact of therapy animals, particularly for individuals with autism. 

The Magic Award: A Milestone Moment 

The Magic Award has played a key role in helping Gwendolyn reach her goals. 

“It provided the vital support I needed to complete the coursework required for the C-AAIS credential,” she says. “This recognition not only affirms my dedication to advancing animal-assisted interventions in psychology and inspires me to keep growing this work.”

To learn more about Dr. Barnhart’s work, visit www.barnhartpsychology.com. 

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