Compassionate Evaluations for Individuals Who May Benefit from an Emotional Support Animal

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At First-Aid Counseling, we understand the meaningful role animals can play in supporting emotional well-being. For some individuals living with a mental health condition, an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) can provide comfort, companionship, and emotional stability that enhances daily functioning.

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Our therapists provide comprehensive ESA evaluations to determine whether an Emotional Support Animal is clinically appropriate based on your individual needs and current mental health symptoms.

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What Is an Emotional Support Animal?

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An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) is an animal that provides emotional comfort and support to an individual with a qualifying mental or emotional disability. Unlike service animals, ESAs are not individually trained to perform specific tasks. Instead, their presence helps alleviate symptoms associated with certain mental health conditions.

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An ESA may benefit individuals experiencing:

• Anxiety Disorders

• Depression

• PTSD

• Trauma-related disorders

• Panic Disorder

• Certain mood disorders

• Other qualifying mental health conditions

 

 

 

 

 

 

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​​​Our Evaluation Process

 

We follow a thorough, ethical, and evidence-based evaluation process to determine whether an ESA recommendation is clinically appropriate.

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Step 1

Complete an ESA Request Form

Tell us about your mental health concerns, treatment history, and how your animal supports your emotional well-being.

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Step 2

Comprehensive Clinical Evaluation

Meet with one of our licensed clinicians for a clinical assessment to determine whether you meet the criteria for an Emotional Support Animal.

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Step 3

Clinical Decision

If the evaluation supports the need for an ESA, your therapist will prepare the appropriate documentation.

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Our Commitment to Ethical ESA Evaluations

 

First-Aid Counseling follows professional ethical guidelines and federal housing recommendations when completing ESA evaluations.

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We do not guarantee approval for an Emotional Support Animal.

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ESA letters are provided only when a licensed clinician determines there is a clinical need based on the evaluation.

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ESA Letters for Housing

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When clinically appropriate, our ESA letters include documentation supporting the need for an Emotional Support Animal for housing accommodations.

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Our letters are designed to meet current professional standards and include appropriate clinical documentation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

Do I need to be an established client?

Yes. To receive an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letter from First-Aid Counseling, you must be an established client. This allows your therapist to conduct a comprehensive clinical evaluation, gain a thorough understanding of your mental health needs, and determine whether an ESA is clinically appropriate as part of your treatment plan. ESA letters are issued only when supported by clinical judgment and professional ethical standards.

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Does having anxiety automatically qualify me for an ESA?

No. Having a mental health diagnosis alone does not automatically qualify someone for an Emotional Support Animal. An ESA recommendation is based on a comprehensive clinical evaluation that considers your symptoms, functional limitations, and whether an ESA is likely to provide therapeutic benefit.

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Can any animal qualify?

While Emotional Support Animals can include a variety of species, First-Aid Counseling currently provides ESA evaluations and letters for dogs and cats only. During your evaluation, your therapist will determine whether an Emotional Support Animal is clinically appropriate based on your individual mental health needs.

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Are ESA letters guaranteed?

No. An ESA letter is never guaranteed. Letters are issued only when a licensed mental health professional determines that an Emotional Support Animal is clinically appropriate based on the evaluation and current professional standards.

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How long does the process take?

Once your evaluation has been completed and all required documentation has been received, ESA letters are typically completed within 7 business days. Processing times may vary depending on the complexity of the evaluation or if additional information is needed.

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Fees

 

Insurance-Covered ESA Evaluation (when applicable)

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Self-Pay ESA Evaluation: $150

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If approved:

Initial ESA Documentation: $75

Annual Renewal Letter: $50

Fees are due before documentation is released.
 

Ready to Get Started?

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If you believe an Emotional Support Animal may be beneficial as part of your treatment, we're here to help.

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If you are a current client, please notify your therapist that you would like to be evaluated for an Emotional Support Animal. Your therapist will discuss the evaluation process and determine the next appropriate steps.

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If you are not currently receiving services with First-Aid Counseling, please contact our office to schedule an initial appointment and begin the process of establishing care.

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