Zooming In on Animal Assisted Interventions with AJ Cullen

Oct 31

Melissa Milner introduces herself as the host of the Teacher as Podcast, a show aimed at educators.
She mentions the podcast's seventh season and the increased number of listeners.
Melissa encourages listeners to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts to help it reach more educators.
She announces the Career Mentorship Program, Major Choice, as a new sponsor of the podcast.

AJ Cullen introduces himself as a licensed independent clinical social worker in Massachusetts and a certified Animal Assisted Intervention specialist.
He is the founder of Autism Barks, a business connecting neurodivergent individuals to Animal Assisted services.
Melissa expresses her admiration for AJ's work and mentions his co-hosted podcast, Rising Voices.
AJ explains the formation of Rising Voices with his friend Danielle Terrell, focusing on careers in autism and human services.

AJ and Danielle decided to start the podcast in April 2024, aiming to launch on World Autism Awareness Day.
They initially planned to record all episodes between June and August but faced challenges.
AJ humorously describes their initial setup in Danielle's apartment complex, which had a full podcast studio.
The podcast has undergone rebranding, redesigning, and future planning, with a focus on virtual interviews due to Danielle's move to Florida.

AJ highlights the diverse guests they have interviewed, including Dr. Temple Grandin and Aspen Baxter.
The podcast aims to inspire young professionals to consider careers in human services.
Melissa shares her excitement about the podcast and mentions listening to an episode featuring Dr. Temple Grandin.
AJ discusses his international speaking engagements with Dr. Temple Grandin and the impact of following his passion.

AJ explains the origin of the name Autism Barks, inspired by a fundraiser he organized at an organic dog bakery.
He shares the story of his first therapy dog, Ella, and how she influenced his career.
AJ wrote a children's book to cope with Ella's passing and to help his clients understand her absence.
The business aims to honor Ella and support the neurodivergent community through Animal Assisted services.

AJ describes the training process for therapy animals, including basic manners, advanced obedience, and Canine Good Citizen tests.
He explains the importance of ensuring the therapy animal's well-being and suitability for the job.
AJ mentions the different types of therapy animals, including cats, miniature horses, and guinea pigs.
He discusses the role of organizations like Pet Partners and Tufts University's Paws for People program in connecting schools and facilities with therapy animal teams.

AJ advises schools on the feasibility of implementing therapy animal programs, considering factors like resources, student needs, and classroom composition.
He suggests partnering with local therapy dog teams or training facility dogs to support multiple schools.
AJ emphasizes the importance of breaks for therapy animals and the need for a volunteer handler to assist in the classroom.
He shares examples of successful therapy animal programs in schools and the benefits for students.

AJ explains the legal rights of students with fully trained service dogs to attend public schools.
He discusses the challenges of service dog fraud and the impact on legitimate service dog teams.
AJ highlights the importance of public awareness and education to prevent discrimination against service dogs.
He shares personal experiences and anecdotes about service dog fraud and the need for proper representation.

AJ expresses his passion for connecting people to the benefits of the human-animal bond through his work.
He mentions his ongoing research and pursuit of a doctorate degree to contribute to the field of Animal Assisted services.
AJ discusses the potential for service dogs to benefit individuals with autism and other needs.
He emphasizes the importance of tailoring therapy animal programs to meet the specific needs of each individual and community.

AJ shares his role as the chair of the board for the Northeast Regional Advisory Board of Dogs for Better Lives.
He discusses the benefits of fully trained service dogs for children with autism and the importance of individualized solutions.
Melissa and AJ discuss the legal rights of parents to request therapy animals in their child's IEP.
AJ provides contact information for Autism Barks and Rising Voices, including websites and social media handles.

Melissa Milner

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