Who We Are

Jodee Vella

Jodee is a devoted counsellor, deeply committed to enhancing the therapeutic journey of her clients by integrating the unique support of certified therapy dogs. Her canine partners, both certified through Lead The Way Australia, play a crucial role in fostering a healing environment.

With a focus on areas such as grief and loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, confidence-building, social skills development, ADHD, and autism, Jodee brings a diverse skill set to her counselling practice. She tailors her approach to each individual, recognising the significance of addressing the specific needs of her clients.

Jodee's passion for utilising therapy dogs in her practice stems from a belief in the profound impact of the human-canine connection on mental well-being. Through her collaborative efforts with her certified companions, she creates a space where clients can explore and navigate their emotions with added support and comfort.

As a forward-thinking counsellor, Jodee continually seeks innovative ways to incorporate the therapeutic benefits of working with therapy dogs into her sessions. Her dedication to providing a safe and supportive environment underscores her commitment to helping individuals build resilience and find solace on their healing journeys.

Jodee's work not only addresses the diverse challenges her clients face but also highlights the transformative power of the human-canine bond in the realm of mental health. Through her efforts, she exemplifies a holistic and collaborative approach, emphasising the profound positive impact that therapy dogs can have on the recovery process.

Areas of interest

Grief and loss

Anxiety

Depression

Trauma

Confidence

Social skills

ADHD

Autism

Approach

Animal Assisted therapy

Solution Focused Therapy

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Psychodrama

Trauma-Informed Therapy

Mindfulness-Based Approaches

Client centered approach

Qualifications

Counselling

Jodee Vella BA(Couns), GCert(Couns), MACA Level 4

Graduate Certificate in Counselling (Tabor College 2011)

Bachelor of Arts in Counselling (Tabor College 2006)

Member of Australian Counselling Association (ACA - Level 4)

Dog Training

Gemma - Visiting Therapy Dog & Handler Team Certification Level 2

Ranger - Visiting Therapy Dog & Handler Team Certification Level 2

Certified through Lead the Way Institute Australia

National Dog Training Federation - Certificate 3 in Dog Behaviour and Training (2022)

Gemma (RIP 28.03.2024)

Gemma passed away from Liver failure at age 6yrs. Jodee and Ranger are devastated at her loss. One never really knows how much another being means to them until they are no longer. RIP beautiful girl.

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Meet Gemma, the vibrant canine companion on a mission to bring joy, comfort, and support to those seeking a furry friend with a heart full of love. Gemma is a spirited and lovable canine, always ready to greet people with an infectious whole-body wiggle that instantly brightens any room.

Energetic and eager to please, Gemma thrives on learning new tricks and showcasing the impressive repertoire of skills she has already mastered. Her enthusiasm for learning makes her an ideal partner for clients looking to build confidence, boost self-esteem, and navigate through challenges related to anxiety and depression.

Gemma's special talent lies in her ability to connect with individuals of all ages, making her a versatile and cherished companion. She has a natural gift for working with children, particularly those with ASD and ADHD. Gemma's presence has a calming effect, and she excels in helping children navigate and express their emotions, making her an invaluable support for families facing unique challenges.

Whether she's engaging in playful antics, demonstrating her repertoire of tricks, or simply offering a comforting presence, Gemma is a source of joy and inspiration. Her adaptability and affectionate nature make her a wonderful asset in various therapeutic settings, contributing to the well-being and happiness of those fortunate enough to share their journey with this remarkable canine friend. Gemma is not just a pet; she's a dedicated companion, offering boundless love and support to everyone she meets.

Ranger

Introducing Ranger, the heartwarming canine companion who brings an abundance of love and joy to all lucky enough to cross his path. Ranger is a sweet and gentle soul, finding pure bliss in the simple pleasures of receiving pats and belly rubs. His affable nature makes him equally content lounging on your lap or engaging in the excitement of learning new tricks.

Ranger is more than just a furry friend; he's a source of comfort and solace for clients navigating the challenging realms of grief, anxiety, and depression. With an intuitive understanding of human emotions, he provides a calming presence and unwavering support, creating a unique and enriching bond with those seeking solace.

For clients aspiring to build skills in confidence and resilience, Ranger is the perfect companion. His patient demeanor and eagerness to learn mirror the journey of growth and self-discovery. Whether he's showcasing his repertoire of tricks or offering a comforting presence during moments of vulnerability, Ranger proves to be a steadfast ally in the pursuit of emotional well-being.

Ranger's unconditional love and adaptable nature make him a cherished companion, offering a soothing balm for the soul and a companionable presence for those in need. In the journey of life's ups and downs, Ranger is there to share in the joys and provide solace through the challenges, making him an indispensable part of any heart that welcomes his warm and wagging tail.

In session - Teaching Gemma "Hold a toy"

As the child eagerly takes on the role of teacher, a magical synergy unfolds. Teaching a dog a trick is not merely an exercise in commands; it's a dynamic process that requires patience, communication, and understanding. In this interactive and playful exchange, the child learns the art of clear communication, as they articulate their desires to their canine friend through words, gestures, and positive reinforcement.

The process involves breaking down the trick into manageable steps, fostering the child's ability to analyse and strategise. Each small victory—the dog responding to a command, mastering a new step—becomes a celebration of achievement, laying the foundation for a resilient sense of accomplishment. The child witnesses firsthand the power of consistency and perseverance, essential qualities that extend far beyond the realm of trick training.

Moreover, the unconditional love and non-judgmental support from the dog create a nurturing environment for the child to experiment, make mistakes, and learn from them. This non-threatening, stress-free atmosphere contributes to the child's development of resilience and adaptability—essential life skills that will serve them well in various aspects of their future.

In the end, the child not only successfully teaches the dog a trick but also discovers an invaluable sense of self-worth and confidence. This unique bonding experience becomes a source of inspiration, fostering a love for learning and a belief in one's ability to overcome challenges. Through the lens of teaching a dog a trick, a child's journey becomes a tapestry of joy, growth, and newfound confidence—an experience that extends its positive influence into the many endeavors that lie ahead.