Institute of Canine Psychotherapy

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Institute of Canine Psychotherapy Elevate Your Profession and Passion. At ICP, we empower you with the skills to reach your goals to improve the lives of canines and humans.
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Canine Psychotherapy is changing the landscape of animal welfare and canine behavioral education. Member of: Dog Writers Association of America, Comparative Cognition Society, Animal Behavior Society. Graduate of the University of Western Ontario. Podcast: Dog Training DisrUPted, UPWARD Dogology

We are honored to be recognized by Three Best Rated, once again! All three are valuable and make an impact in different ...
09/12/2024

We are honored to be recognized by Three Best Rated, once again!

All three are valuable and make an impact in different ways to help pet parents and dogs live their best lives.

Dogs Den is renowned for leash walking and basic manners, while KAOS rocks it at agility and sports!

At ICP we work with pet parents, one on one, to address behaviors common with adopted dogs and in the adolescent stage, and challenges associated with anxiety and aggression. We use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, an evidence-based method that respects emotions and cognition.

So, Regina pet parents and dog lovers, you are well equipped to meet your needs!

Cathy Lauritsen Memorial and Ross Industrial Off-Leash Dog Park - Regina I Support Local Business Regina CBC Saskatchewan

YOUR purchase of my book helps a dog lover, professional, and/or advocate expand their knowledge and be better equipped ...
08/12/2024

YOUR purchase of my book helps a dog lover, professional, and/or advocate expand their knowledge and be better equipped to help pet parents and dogs live more fulfilling lives!

Here's how: With each purchase,

1) a person will receive, FREE, the "Introduction to Canine Psychotherapeutic Methods" course through the Institute of Canine Psychotherapy. ($175.00 CDN)

Or

2) a person will receive $1000.00 off the regular price of the Diploma Course in Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Certified Canine Psychotherapist) through the Institute of Canine Psychotherapy.

As a purchaser of my book, your generosity and support will be
acknowledged and greatly appreciated by not only the person who receives the book (makes a great xmas gift!), but by the student, pet parents, and dogs!

Here is the link to the book on Amazon
https://a.co/d/7pMLdmf

NOTE: if you are interested in being the fortunate student to receive one of the 2 options, please join the Institute of Canine Psychotherapy mailing list, and email us at [email protected]

NEW COURSE! "Introduction to Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychotherapeutic Practices" ONLY 175.00 Canadian D...
04/12/2024

NEW COURSE! "Introduction to Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychotherapeutic Practices" ONLY 175.00 Canadian Dollars.

This introductory course dives into the psychology and science behind Conditioning and Psychotherapeutic methods, enabling professionals to gain a greater insight as to the benefits, purpose, and limitations of all methods.

Providing clients with the most up to date information benefits not only the pet parents, but also those involved in animal welfare, behavioral education, rescue, and pet care.

If you are passionate about helping dogs, making an impact, and elevating your career, this certified course is a must-have. Once completed, you can progress to the Foster and Adopter Program.

Become a Certified Canine Psychotherapist and receive a refund on fees paid for both the Introductory Course and Foster/Adopter Program. This is a win-win!

https://www.instituteofcaninepsychotherapy.com/courses-offered

For more info please email [email protected]

29/11/2024

How do you emotionally connect with your dog? How do you show your dog you respect his/her feelings? Do you feel you can communicate your wishes in a way that respects their autonomy, provides agency, and encourages self-regulation?

Dogs in the adolescent stage and adopted dogs can be challenging. Why? They think and learn differently from puppies. To effectively communicate and bond with them, we need to apply a non-aversive method that respects their emotions and cognition.

Is there a method proven to do this? Yes!
Psychotherapeutic practices are evidence-based and proven effective with dogs over 6 months of age. Psychotherapeutic practices recognize the impact of perception, cognitive skills, and habit that effect emotions driving behavior.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a psychotherapeutic practice that employs exercises to reset brain patterns leading to unhealthy thoughts causing anxiety, fear, or simply poor decision-making. These exercises are applied during non-stressful times, encourage processing and decision-making, and lead to intrinsic motivation and self-regulation, resulting in changes in responses and behavior.

There is no “one right method”. So how do you decide which method is best for your dog? The answer lies in the motivation driving the behavior!
Here is a human example:
The unwanted behavior is eating too much and making unhealthy eating choices:
If the person:
• does not know an apple is a better choice than a bag of potato chips,
• wants to lose weight but lacks the motivation,
then Conditioning Methods are commonly most effective. Reinforcement based methods are, from a psychology perspective, designed to “teach” and to encourage and discourage behaviors with reinforcements. (Note – there are various ways of applying Conditioning methods.)
Alternatively, if the person:
• see’s absolutely no reason to change their habits and does not care about the potential positive outcomes if they do not eat them.
• feels eating chips is working in their favor and achieves their goal.
• is routine driven and finds change challenging
• is eating out of stress, trauma, and/or an emotional challenge
• knows it is wrong to eat chips, but does not care what others’ think
then Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is proven most effective.
Is C.B.T. proven effective with dogs?
Yes! Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy by Billie Groom, is an evidence-based method adhering to the principles of CBT, is backed by science, and is supported by veterinarians, industry experts, psychologists, pet parents, and dogs! With over three decades of hands-on experience, combined with formal education, Billie’s knowledge and expertise has positioned her as the leader in Canine CBT.
Billie is the founder of the Institute of Canine Psychotherapy (I.C.P.), the only nationally recognized educational platform offering a Diploma in Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CCBT) and certifications in relevant subjects. The virtual programs allow for flexibility while providing hands-on guidance and a mentoring program that allows students to “earn while you learn.”

The acceptance of animals as sentience beings, the challenges engulfing animal welfare, and the demand by professionals and pet parents for solutions to address behaviors relating to anxiety and aggression leading to surrender and euthanasia, has led to not only the acceptance of, but the demand for, advanced practices in canine behavior education.

Be Part of the Solution

Take advantage of the Black Friday Sale – 15% off all courses (membership required – 49.99 Cdn per year)
ICP also has a program for pet parents!!
For more information, or to sign up to the mailing list, please visit www.instituteofcaninepsychotherapy.com

Are you ready for your Passion Profession? The dogs are waiting for you to join the movement to end behavioral surrender...
28/11/2024

Are you ready for your Passion Profession? The dogs are waiting for you to join the movement to end behavioral surrender and euthanasia!

Work from home and "earn while you learn." Our virtual courses allow for flexibility while providing hands-on guidance. Our signature course, Diploma in Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, has a renowned mentorship program, ensuring your success as a Certified Canine Psychotherapist.

Other courses include: The Adolescent Brain (effects on behavior), Canine Emergency Response Tactics, Self-Care for the Caregiver, and the Pet Professional Business Program, with more courses coming soon!

"The Diploma course is, by far, the most intensive, informative, and impactful program I have taken!" Mais St. Thomas, Certified Dog Trainer.

Gain the skills you need to Elevate Your Impact!

www.instituteofcaninepsychotherapy.com

If you received a request from the Institute of Canine Psychotherapy to join Alignable - yes, that was from me (Billie)....
26/11/2024

If you received a request from the Institute of Canine Psychotherapy to join Alignable - yes, that was from me (Billie). No spam. No money required.

Also, not intentional. I decided to expand and check out Alignable. Why not? So, in the process, I received an auto generated suggestion that I agreed to. Turns out it was a request for my contacts to join Alignable....really? So, essentially, I was doing promotion for Alignable - hhhmmm.... so I "called them out on it". They were receptive and appreciative of my concerns.

As much as I have been in Canine Behavior and Animal Welfare for over three decades, there seems to be an endless supply of things to learn (or not?) that come flying at me daily.

Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy continues to grow in popularity and I am grateful for that, but in the process, I caused a bit of disruption (me...disruption??) and for that, I apologize.

As always, I appreciate your support and all you do for the animals.

November is “Adopt a Senior Dog” month. I bet you love seeing senior dogs! They stroll calmly next to their person, gent...
23/11/2024

November is “Adopt a Senior Dog” month. I bet you love seeing senior dogs! They stroll calmly next to their person, gently greet new friends, and casually hang out on coffee shop patios laying in the shade, patiently waiting for their person to continue their stroll. So, what are the reasons NOT to adopt a senior dog?

1) Health Issues – Valid, to some degree. All dogs have potential health issues – there are no guarantees. Senior dogs often live out their lives without any health issues until it is their time to go. Leading us to number 2.

2) Emotional Stress of Losing Them - Yes, this can be challenging, but it is also a beautiful time. Senior dogs know you gave them those final good moments (days, months, years) and they appreciate the love you shared together. Nothing can take that away. Ever. Having said that…

3) Special Needs – Blind, deaf, lame….no problem! These dogs easily adapt to their “malfunctions!” They survive, thrive, and come alive when brought into a healthy, vibrant home. All you need is a little understanding for their hic-cups, without underestimating their ability to adapt. Uh-oh…

4) Fear of Failure - The number one reason people hesitate to adopt a senior dog is “fear of failure.” They fear they will not have the skills to meet the needs of senior dogs. If “time” is a concern, well, senior dogs commonly require less time than younger dogs (although they do enjoy their pats and strolls). If adaptability is a concern, well, most have lived through life-changes, survived challenges, and endured unwelcome situations. Are these experiences going to lead to behavioral issues or challenges in integrating them into families? No! In fact, their life experiences often make them more adaptable. They have high cognitive skills, meaning they can process and “figure things out.” They understand that sh*t happens. They “get” what you are trying to tell them…. oh wait…do they?

The I.C.P. integration program aligns with the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a scientifically proven method designed to recognize emotions, encourage processing and decision-making (different from “choices”), respect autonomy, provide agency, and allow for intrinsic motivation. Sound difficult? It is actually refreshingly simple (yet, not simplistic – the underlying methodology is grounded in psychology). The first steps in the program build a bond by showing the dog we respect their cognitive abilities and understand what is important to them. We get “ah-ha” moment within the first few hours and days. No restrictions or lengthy decompression periods (although, safety first).

How did Billie learn this program? From rescued dogs, of course! And, then, by teaching it to hundreds of fosters, pet parents, and rescuers, she formulated it into an easy to apply, adaptable, flexible, and effective program that provides fosters and adopters with the skills and tools to meet their goals.

If you are considering adopting a senior dog, reach out to learn about our pet parent program for senior dog adoption.

If you are a foster, trainer or behaviorist, you will benefit from our upcoming certification course “Foster to Adoption Program”

Join our mailing list to stay updated. www.instituteofcaninepsychotherapy.com

*Note - the dog in the photo is one of Billie’s many senior rescues. Avalon lived many years scrounging the beaches and streets of Costa Rica. She was a peaceful, deep soul. She lived out her senior years with Billie (one of the few she did not home). RIP Avalon.

Do you want to do MORE to help animals and pet parents? Are you active in animal welfare, and have a goal to change this...
20/11/2024

Do you want to do MORE to help animals and pet parents? Are you active in animal welfare, and have a goal to change this passion into an impactful profession? Do you have a successful Dog Training or Canine Behavior Rehabilitation business and want to advance to your skills to better meet the needs of your clients?

The Institute of Canine Psychotherapy is the ONLY recognized educational institute offering a Diploma in Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as our most popular course - The Adolescent Dog Brain Development Certificate Program. Other courses include "Caring for the Caregiver," "Emergency Response Tactics," and "Pet Professional Business Practices."

Take advantage of our discounted prices on all courses for members. Membership is only $49.99 Canadian per year!

Join our mailing list to receive info and updates.

www.instituteofcaninepyshotherapy.com

Have you wanted to foster or adopt a SENIOR DOG but concerned about their ability to fit into your family, or unsure if ...
19/11/2024

Have you wanted to foster or adopt a SENIOR DOG but concerned about their ability to fit into your family, or unsure if you have the skills to meet their needs? You are not alone!

Meet Jet! She was one of my many senior dog rescues, and from Mexico, who turned out to deaf. I knew she had advanced cancer, and did not want her to die in the shelter. No one even noticed her or knew she was deaf. (flashback 10 years)

She was such an easy dog! Friendly to everyone and loved her walks. She was calm, fun, delicate, tenacious, and her and I quickly developed a bond that surpasses description.

Senior dogs make wonderful pets. We easily built a bond, and there was no need for a lengthy or restrictive decompression period.

The Integration Program I developed from working with hundreds of rescued dogs is proven to prevent behavioral issues, establish a bond, and calmly address any challenges that may arise.

If you are interested in helping dogs, check out the courses at Institute of Canine Psychotherapy. Join our email list and stay tuned for the upcoming Foster and Adoption Program!

www.instituteofcaninepsychotherapy.com

When a veterinarian (also a client) asked me to help a "two women rescue team" taking in dogs from the Ukraine War, (202...
16/11/2024

When a veterinarian (also a client) asked me to help a "two women rescue team" taking in dogs from the Ukraine War, (2023), I did not hesitate. The vet (a Canadian woman) was there volunteering, and saw the fear in these dogs, making it challenging to care for them, and of course, to home them.

These three dogs huddled together in the doghouse in the outdoor enclosed area, only coming out to eat and relieve themselves when no one was around. They were fearful of any noise and person.

The woman I worked with was experienced with rescued dogs and easy to work with - yes, virtual consulting is effective! In fact, when working with fearful dogs, it has a higher success rate.

With Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CCBT), we establish exercises that encourage processing and decision making, thus decreasing anxiety. It took some creativity since these dogs were outside, but one dog took to it quite quickly. He came out of the house, and followed her. No treats or rewards (those made it worse when she had tried, which is common). The exercises showed the dogs that she understood what was important to them - processing their surrounding and having the ability to make decisions. They were able to do this without going into a state of panic. Eventually, (a few weeks) the other two followed suit and all three dogs were playing in the yard with her there. We also used these as "transferable exercises" to decrease stress and increase the bond when rehoming.

When working with dogs over the age of six months, and ones with challenging histories, unconventional upbringings, or sudden change in lifestyle, it is essential to apply a method designed to recognize emotions, thought patterns, and cognitive abilities. CCBT is proactive in nature (does not rely on reactive reinforcements), thus preventing unsavory thought patterns, which leads to intrinsic motivation.

Can dogs reach a state of "intrinsic motivation"? They can when the method applied is designed (from a psychology perspective) to achieve this! And what a beautiful thing it is to experience.

I am honored to have had the opportunity to work with these dogs, and the hundreds of others over the years, as well as the rescuers, fosters, and adopters who dedicate their lives to these dogs.

Interested in elevating your impact? Helping people and dogs? Impacting communities locally and globally?

Visit the Institute of Canine Psychotherapy. Join our email list or become a member for discounted rates on courses.

I.C.P. Instructor, Michael Overlie, shares his creative and proven impactful strategies to ensure pet professionals and ...
12/11/2024

I.C.P. Instructor, Michael Overlie, shares his creative and proven impactful strategies to ensure pet professionals and volunteers are equipped with strategies to overcome emotional challenges engulfing the animal welfare and care sectors. For his full program, visit the I.C.P. website www.instituteofcaninepsychotherapy.com

Dig: Finding the Roots of Discomfort

The first step is to “dig.” This means going beyond the surface to find the roots of discomfort. Often, when we’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or even frustrated, there’s an underlying need or belief driving those feelings. In this stage, ask yourself, “What belief or need is at the heart of this feeling?” By identifying what’s beneath the surface, you gain insight into what you truly
need and can begin to address it with compassion. For example, if you find yourself constantly exhausted, the need might be rest or boundaries. Maybe it’s a belief that you must keep going to be “good enough.” By understanding this, you can then move toward meeting that need consciously.

Observe: Embracing Self-Compassion

Once you’ve dug into the underlying cause, it’s time to observe—without judgment. Observing means holding space for yourself, allowing your feelings and needs to surface without trying to
“fix” them right away. Think of how a dog might sit quietly beside you when you’re upset. They don’t try to solve anything; they simply provide a comforting presence. Use this step to be a kind
observer to yourself, allowing you to fully feel without rushing past your emotions. Ask yourself: “How does this make me feel?” and “Is there something I’ve been ignoring?” These gentle questions open the door to greater self-understanding and acceptance.

Give: Granting Yourself Permission

The final step is to “give” yourself what you need. This is where self-care becomes real—by responding to what you discovered in the first two steps. Whether you need a walk, a nourishing meal, or just a few moments of quiet, this is the part where you meet your own needs without guilt. This act of giving could look like taking a 10-minute walk, sitting with your dog in silence, or even setting aside an hour for a hobby you love. The idea is to honor your needs as valid and deserving of your attention.

Dogs as Our Guides in Self-Care

Dogs instinctively live out the D.O.G. method every day. They “dig” to satisfy curiosity, “observe” the world around them with patience, and “give” themselves rest or joy when the need it. By watching our dogs, we’re reminded that self-care can be intuitive, simple, and
nourishing. Dogs teach us that we’re worthy of love and attention—just as we are.

Michael Overlie is a human-canine relations expert who uses his expertise to enhance the personal and professional lives of dog lovers, thus enhancing the lives of dogs. We are honored to have him as part of the I.C.P. team.


Should industry experts provide specific behavioral advice on social media platforms, podcasts, articles, or as guest sp...
07/11/2024

Should industry experts provide specific behavioral advice on social media platforms, podcasts, articles, or as guest speakers?

Recently, I received a comment on one of my posts that I do not provide specific advice, and, on my podcast, I repeatedly say, “It Depends.” Since she followed this with, “any reputable trainer is transparent and gives specific advice,” I can only assume this was intended as a criticism, but is it?

The dog behavioral industry is infiltrated with certified trainers, all trying to make their mark and be successful. To do this, they need to provide specific advice (nuggets) showing the method they adhere to. Industry leaders have created a division amongst trainers that make them feel forced to take a side (positive, negative, balanced, all with different approaches and applications). In an attempt to support the method they adhere to and promote themselves, they provide specific advice.

Is this wrong? No! They can do this because the practices of conditioning methods are not intended to recognize behaviors stemming from cognition and emotions. Generic advice is effective, and although there are different applications, the principles follow a structured guideline.

The method I developed and have applied for over three decades, Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CCBT), aligns with the principles and practices of CBT for humans.

As “the industry” finally recognizes animals as sentient beings, encourages respecting autonomy and providing agency, and explores the impact of cognition and emotion on behavior, trainers and behavioral experts struggle to achieve this while remaining loyal to the conditioning method they have fought so hard to promote. Why? Conditioning methods are not intended to achieve these goals. This does not mean professionals cannot have these mindsets, but to put it into practice, they must (as with human therapy) learn a method that adheres to these principles.

And what will that entail…. Yes, you guessed it - “It Depends” as an ethical, professional, and morally responsible reply to requests for specific advice. CCBT acknowledges the behavior stems from an emotion and cognition and the goal is not to encourage or discourage behavior, but, rather, to provide skills that allow for processing and decision making, thus leading to changes individual to each dog. Therefore, it is simply not possible to give generic advice.

It is beautiful to witness these dogs develop and flourish, and to know that Canine CBT is making a global impact.

(Note - this post is in respect to canine behavior and welfare only)

www.instituteofcaninepsychotherapy.com

Pet professionals, volunteers, and pet enthusiasts immerse themselves into the lives of the people and pets they care ab...
05/11/2024

Pet professionals, volunteers, and pet enthusiasts immerse themselves into the lives of the people and pets they care about. This can be exhausting and emotionally draining.

The Institute of Canine Psychotherapy empowers students to make an impact, create change, and expand their professional and personal goals. Taking care of oneself often comes secondary to our passion - and we understand this, firsthand!

I am thrilled that Human-Canine Powered Coach, Michael Overlie, dropped me a line saying that, in the spirit of November, he wants to offer his course at a reduced rate.

Create a deeper understanding of how your dog can help you help others (really? - yes!) Rejuvenate your emotional self after challenging days. Prepare yourself emotionally for the road ahead.
Become a member of the Institute of Canine Psychotherapy for only $49.99 Canadian per year and receive exclusive material, discounted prices on courses, and early bird registration to events.

Empower Yourself. No one else will do this for you. And that is a good thing.

www.instituteofcaninepsychotherapy.com

The term "Breedist" is, often, automatically seen in a negative light. And rightly so!  Many of you are well aware of th...
03/11/2024

The term "Breedist" is, often, automatically seen in a negative light. And rightly so! Many of you are well aware of the inhumane acts stemming from "breed legislation" or simply being shunned upon because of the breed of your dog.

But, what if the opposite happens? What if our expectations of certain breeds set unrealistic expectations? For example, Golden Retrievers love all our family and friends (and even those we do not like!), Border Collies keep us fit and healthy with their love of exercise, German Shepherds keep us safe as they protect the family, and Labradors help us through challenging times with their innate emotional connectivity.

These are all great traits, rights? Yes! So, should we care? Yes! As with humans, we do not all fit into a mold. They did not read the book that some human wrote about their breed. Maybe they simply would not agree if given the opportunity to edit the material.

My client (and ICP student) is well versed in Wolf Hybrids and is a certified trainer. Her three dogs (two in the photo) all have their own personalities, each bringing joy and challenges. Naturally, they all exhibit some traits common to the breed, but in different ways.

Taking common breed characteristics into account can help us understand their emotions, cognitive skills, expectations, and perception. These factors are also affected by age, upbringing, personality, formed habits, and learned behaviors.

Breed is simply one factor, of many, that creates the entire being of the individual. Common characteristics should not be viewed as "good and positive" or "bad and negative," but rather as factors that can aid in our ability to work with each dog on an individual basis to address behaviors stemming from emotions and cognition.

Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CCBT) is an evidence-based method which takes into account all these factors. Breed related traits, personalities, dispositions, and even behaviors are not deemed "bad or good."

Recognizing individualism is not simply a mindset or using appropriate terminology. It requires a scientifically method designed to recognize autonomy, provide agency, harness cognition, induce processing, allow for decision-making (different from "choice") and inspire a relationship based on mutual understanding.

Billie Groom, creator of CCBT, has worked with dogs of all backgrounds, breeds, personalities, and needs. At ICP, we respect the similarities and differences that make us all who we are.

Are you familiar with CCBT? Is your trainer or behaviorist certified in CCBT? If not, why not? Mais is excelling in the ICP program (Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Diploma Program).

"The CCBT program offers an entirely new approach to understanding dogs, with applicable strategies that has greatly improved my ability to work with my clients and expand my business." Mais St. Thomas

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Our Story

I formulated UPWARD Dogology over 30 years of working with dogs over the age of 6 months, most of them rescued, and many with behavioural issues. UPWARD Dogology is not one technique; it is a Methodology, grounded in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), as opposed to Operant Conditioning which is the basis of conventional techniques, such a positive reinforcement (treat based), distraction and replacement training, standard socialization and house-training techniques, and reactive techniques such as kneeing, ignoring, e collars, and spray bottles. I teach you how to read and effectively with your dog, and to calmly manage your dog using CBT. Force-free, fear-free, simple, logical and effective. Enjoy your learning journey! For more information on CBT, Upward Dogology and myself, pls visit www.upwarddogology.com