You’re not alone in this journey - Lyon's here to support you throughout the way, with his loving presence and wagging tail.

Lyon

A picture of Lyon, our dog therapist at Elizabeth Nardella Counselling, sitting in a tulip field, representing calm and being grounded.

Meet Lyon

Lyon, our trusted sidekick, has been by Elizabeth’s side for four years. Chosen as a puppy for his gentle and intuitive nature, he’s become an essential part of our practice.

Our Walking Love Machine

Lyon is more than just a dog—he's a walking love machine who helps create a safe and calming space for clients. His presence often helps people feel more at ease. He has the ability to sense emotional shifts in sessions, offering comfort when needed.

Lyon makes therapy feel safe and supportive, helping clients open up.

Benefits of Therapy Dogs

An illustration o a therapist dog paw with a heart inside, representing how dog therapists help in reducing anxiety and stress, at Elizabeth Nardella Counselling, Canada.

Lyon helps you feel calm, especially when talking about more difficult topics.

Reduces Anxiety & Stress

A talking baloon with a "woof" written inside, representing how dog therapists help building trust in therapy, at Elizabeth Nardella Counselling, Canada.

Lyon is loving and playful. His presence creates a welcoming space and makes therapy less intimidating.

Builds trust in Therapy

A drop of water falling in water, representing relaxation and calm, promoted by dog therapists at Elizabeth Nardella Counselling, Canada.

With Lyon around, you’ll feel more relaxed, creating the perfect space for emotional healing.

Promoting Relaxation

Lyon, our therapy dog, sitting proudly in front of the Elizabeth Nardella Counselling sign, welcoming clients to a safe and supportive therapeutic space in Canada

More than a Therapy dog, Lyon is a vital part of the healing process

Here’s how he contributes to our sessions:

Lyon’s presence helps you feel at ease and reduces stress, making it easier to open up.

  • Bringing Comfort

  • Building Trust

Lyon’s intuitive nature builds a sense of safety, allowing you to connect more deeply with your emotions.

  • Teaching Boundaries

Lyon models important life skills, such as setting boundaries by letting you know what he wants and what he does not want.

Lyon has an amazing ability to sense emotional shifts during sessions. He often knows when you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious and responds by offering comfort - whether through gentle non-verbal cues or simply sitting by your side.

How Lyon helps you open up and heal?

When Lyon is present, you might feel more understood and less judged, making it easier to express difficult emotions. His calm, reassuring energy helps create a safe space.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • In a counselling session, Lyon acts as a supportive companion. He helps you feel at ease, teaching you important skills like setting boundaries and recognizing your feelings. Lyon is intuitive, often sensing the energy in the room, which allows him to provide comfort during intense moments. His presence encourages open communication and emotional connection, enhancing the overall therapeutic experience.

  • Lyon is not present in all therapy sessions unless you specifically ask for him not to be. His calming presence is a core part of our therapeutic environment, helping to create a safe space for your healing journey.

  • His gentle nature and loving energy help lower stress levels, making it easier for you to relax and engage in the therapeutic process.

    Being around Lyon can also release oxytocin, promoting feelings of comfort and safety, which allows you to express your emotions more freely and navigate difficult topics with greater ease.

  • No, Lyon is not present in all therapy sessions. He may be getting a hair cut, napping or on a playdate with his friends. Please ask Elizabeth to make sure he is not off an adventure and will be there for your session..