Elani Schmidt

Clinical Psychologist and Animal Assisted Therapist

Elani is a Clinical Psychologist and Animal Assisted Therapist, holding master's degrees in Clinical Psychology as well as Counselling and Psychotherapy. Since 2017, she has been practicing as an Animal Assisted Therapist, working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, and horses. She integrates Animal Assisted Therapy with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Schema Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to support her clients. Elani has a special interest in working with adolescents and providing trauma counseling. In addition to her individual therapy work, Elani also enjoys developing group programs and providing group therapy. Elani is the primary facilitator of the group programs offered at Habitat Animal Assisted Therapy.

Madalyn Simpson

Group Facilitator and Administrative Assistant

Maddy has her Undergraduate degree and Honours degree in Psychology. She has extensive experience working with people who have a mental health condition or disability through her previous roles as a support worker and support coordinator. Maddy also works as a swim teacher with children ages 3 months to 10 years old. This background allows her to bring a wealth of knowledge to our group programs where she is able to support clients to get the most out of the programs, even on days where they may find the session challenging.

Co-Therapists

  • Frida

    Frida is a Miniature Schnauzer who is a certified therapy dog (foundation level) with Lead the Way Institute. Frida has been working as a therapy dog her whole life and loves her job. Frida loves to cuddle on the couch, learn new tricks and play ball with clients. Frida is a hypoallergenic dog so is suitable to work with clients who have dog fur allergies.

  • Lady

    Lady is the newest fluffy member in our team. She is an energetic and caring Miniature Schnauzer puppy who is working on her therapy dog training. Lady loves treats and learning new tricks with clients. Lady is also a hypoallergenic dog.

  • Spotted Marsh Frogs

    We have an army of spotted marsh frogs who we have been lucky enough to watch grow from when they were tadpoles. Frogs can absorb toxins through their skin, so we don’t hold these animals, but we love getting clients to help feed and clean them and engage with them in many other ways.