“Empowering healing through the therapeutic bond of humans and canines.”
About Jodee
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Jodee Vella
Jodee is a dedicated counsellor committed to enhancing her clients' therapeutic journeys through the support of certified therapy dogs. Alongside her canine partners, certified through Lead The Way Australia, she fosters a safe and healing environment for clients navigating grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism, and more.
Jodee tailors her approach to meet each client's unique needs, combining her diverse counselling skills with the profound therapeutic power of the human-canine bond. By integrating therapy dogs into her practice, she offers a compassionate, supportive space for emotional growth and healing.
Her forward-thinking, holistic approach exemplifies the positive impact of therapy dogs in mental health, helping clients build resilience and find comfort in their journey towards well-being.
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Areas of interest
Grief and loss
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma
Confidence
Social skills
ADHD
Autism
School refusal
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
Bachelor of Arts in Counselling
Member of Australian Counselling Association (ACA - Level 4)
Dog Training
Gemma - Visiting Therapy Dog & Handler Team Certification Level 2 (RIP 28.03.2024)
Ranger - Visiting Therapy Dog & Handler Team Certification Level 2
Ziva - Visiting Therapy Dog & Handler Team Learner Certification
All dogs certified through Lead the Way Institute Australia
National Dog Training Federation - Certificate 3 in Dog Behaviour and Training (2022)
Jodee's Canine Companions
Therapeutic Benefits
Welcome to Talk with Tails – Where Healing Meets the Therapeutic Bond of Canines and Humans
At Talk with Tails, we believe in the transformative power of the human-canine connection. Through canine-assisted therapy, we offer a compassionate and supportive environment that fosters emotional well-being, personal growth, and healing. Guided by our certified therapy dogs, we create a space where clients can feel safe, understood, and empowered.
With each wag of the tail and every gentle paw, we nurture the emotional journeys of those we serve, providing a unique approach to therapy that is as effective as it is heartwarming. Discover the power of connection, comfort, and growth through the therapeutic bond of dogs and humans.
Ranger
Meet Ranger – Your Compassionate Canine Companion
Ranger is a gentle, affectionate therapy dog who brings comfort and joy to all those he meets. His calm presence and intuitive understanding of human emotions make him a trusted companion for clients navigating grief, anxiety, and depression. Whether offering a soothing lap to rest on or engaging in playful learning, Ranger provides unwavering support and a calming influence during challenging times.
With his patient demeanor and eagerness to learn, Ranger is also an ideal partner for those building confidence and resilience. His unconditional love and adaptable nature make him a cherished ally in the journey toward emotional well-being.
Ziva
Meet Ziva – Your Gentle and Affectionate Therapy Dog
Ziva is a calm and gentle soul who radiates warmth and kindness to everyone she meets. With a love for cuddles and gentle pats, she provides a soothing presence for clients seeking comfort and emotional support. Ziva’s empathetic nature makes her an ideal companion for those navigating life’s challenges, offering a safe space where clients can feel at ease.
Her serene temperament and nurturing spirit make her a trusted ally in building confidence, resilience, and emotional well-being. Ziva’s unwavering love and gentle nature create a unique bond with clients, offering peace and connection through every interaction.
Gemma (RIP 28.03.2024)
In Loving Memory of Gemma – A Bright Spirit Forever in Our Hearts
Gemma was a spirited and loving canine companion whose infectious energy and whole-body wiggle brought joy to everyone she met.
Sadly, Gemma passed away from liver failure at just 6 years old. Her loss has left a deep void for Jodee and Ranger, as her love and light will always be remembered. Gemma’s legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know her.
Rest in peace, beautiful girl. You are deeply missed.
In session - Teaching Gemma "Hold a toy"
As the child takes on the role of teacher, a powerful connection forms through teaching a dog a new trick. This process is more than just following commands; it fosters clear communication, patience, and problem-solving. The child learns to break down tasks into manageable steps, building resilience and a sense of achievement with each small success. The dog's unconditional support creates a nurturing space for the child to experiment, learn from mistakes, and develop essential life skills like perseverance and adaptability. This experience not only strengthens the child’s confidence but also instills a love for learning and a belief in their ability to overcome challenges. Through teaching a dog a trick, the child embarks on a journey of growth that extends far beyond the moment.
Visiting Therapy Dog & Handler Team - Certified Level 2
Jodee & Gemma - Certified July 2023 (RIP)
Visiting Therapy Dog & Handler Team - Certified Level 2
Jodee & Ranger - Certified November 2023
Visiting Therapy Dog & Handler Team - Certified Learner
Jodee & Ziva- Certified October 2024
The human-animal bond fosters emotional healing, as dogs create safety, trust, and support.
Jodee Vella
Available Services
School Programs, Youth and Other Programs
Jodee can tailor programs to your school or your organisation:
- Group Program
- Emotional Regulation
- Social Skills & Social Inclusion
- Mindfulness
- Greif & Loss
- School Refusal
- One on One Counselling
Individual Counselling
Jodee currently
- Does not have an office.
- She can travel to clients or meet in an agreed location
- Is accepting NDIS Clients as a registered counsellor
Organisational Wellbeing Days
- Please make contact with Jodee if you would like her to provide a service to your organisation
- Your choice of dog
- All requests considered
- Competitive prices
Contact Information
Contact us
Private Health Insurance Funds Available
Memberships & Affiliates
Photo Gallery
