Welcome to this month’s newsletter. We’re really glad you’re here.
Each month, we’ll share what’s happening across Elysian: new training programmes, development opportunities, and a look behind the scenes at the incredible animals and people who make our work possible.
We hope you enjoy reading, and if you think someone else would too, feel free to pass it on.
What’s Happening
This month, we’re focusing on Understanding Anxiety & Emotional Health.
We’ll be exploring what anxiety is, what contributes to it, and how it shows up both physically and mentally.
We’re also taking a closer look at how Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAI) can support those experiencing anxiety, and how research continues to highlight the positive impact of AAI in schools and therapeutic settings for children and adolescents. Even brief interactions with animals can help people feel safer, more grounded, and more able to regulate their emotions. Because anxiety affects both the body and mind, grounding experiences with animals can be a powerful way to reduce overwhelm.
Courses
Many teenagers today are carrying an extraordinary amount of pressure. Social media, school, exams, friendships, puberty, and family life all create a constant backdrop of noise. Today’s young people are navigating challenges unlike those faced by previous generations.
Recent figures highlight just how widespread anxiety in young people has become.
The Royal College of Psychiatrists: “A shocking report from the Guardian found that 500 children a day in England are being referred to the NHS mental health services for anxiety, more than double the rate before the pandemic began.”
Now imagine managing all of this while also navigating neurodivergent needs. Every sensation, every feeling, every thought becomes amplified. When conditions coexist or overlap, the experience can be even more intense. Those supporting anxious teenagers often want to help but may not know how, or where to begin.
This is exactly why we created our beginner-level course, Supporting Anxious Teenagers with Co-Occurring Conditions. It provides practical, real-world tools to help reduce anxiety, prevent overload, and create calmer, more supportive environments. You’ll learn why co-occurring conditions are so common in adolescence, how anxiety can intensify other challenges, and how overlapping symptoms can complicate understanding and diagnosis.
This online course isn’t just for SEN professionals, teachers, or therapists. It’s for anyone who cares. From parents to extended family members, you don’t need prior experience; just a desire to support the young people in your life and help make their world feel a little lighter.
People
Elysian wouldn’t be here without our amazing staff supporting and driving us forward. Each month, we’re introducing you to another member of our team, and we’re starting this month with Nick Lee, our Strategic Lead for Business Development & Innovation.
Hi all, I’m Nick, and I have over 30 years of experience working in education, including 17 years in senior leadership roles, most recently as the Head of British International School of Washington DC.
My role at Elysian is to develop and deliver our amazing online courses and in-person learning experiences. I’m passionate about translating practical, on-the-ground experience in animal-assisted interventions into accessible, high-quality training that supports wellbeing, ethical practice and meaningful impact for both people and animals.
In my spare time, I enjoy playing for my local cricket team, caring for my cat George, and writing poetry.
Please feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn and follow the Elysian journey.
Training
At Elysian, we’re not only passionate about the power of animal-assisted interventions but also believe the work being undertaken needs to be of the highest quality, ensuring the safeguarding of both animals and the individuals. This is why we offer a range of training courses - which are accredited by CPD UK - as well as in-person events and qualifications. Perfect for all levels, including those who are taking a first look into animal-assisted therapy and interventions. Our online courses are available 24/7, allowing you to learn new skills at a time that suits you.
For those looking for more, our Level 3 – Fundamentals in Animal-Assisted Interventions is a deeper, national-level award. Delivered across five modules with online learning, live online events and an in-person training day at one of our farms.
Our popular Intro to AAI training days occur throughout the year and offer you the chance to come to our sites and gain real, hands-on learning with our incredible animals. If you’re curious about whether our Intro to AAI day is right for you, our team is here and always happy to help you explore your options. Contact us here.
Animals
What are animal-assisted interventions without our incredible animals? The true partners in our work! Each one plays a unique role in supporting emotional regulation, building trust, and helping people to feel safe.
This month, we’re introducing Stew the Rabbit. A gentle favourite among many of our visitors. Stew's calm, steady nature helps young people slow down, regulate their breathing and reconnect with their senses when things feel overwhelming.
- Age: Unknown, as he's a rescue
- Breed: Lionhead
- Years at Elysian: Elysian team member since 2022
- Unique Role: providing soothing sensory experiences through gentle handling and stillness, helping people to practice mindful touch and grounding.
Your Questions
What are Animal-Assisted Interventions?
Animal-Assisted Interventions are structured, goal‑oriented practices that involve trained animals to support human health, well-being, or learning. This includes:
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Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT): delivered by qualified professionals to achieve therapeutic outcomes
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Animal-Assisted Education (AAE): used by educators to support learning goals
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Animal-Assisted Activities (AAA): provide informal comfort, motivation, and stress relief through volunteer-based animal visits.
What's the difference between animal-assisted therapy and animal-assisted interventions?
Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAIs) are the umbrella term for all structured programs that involve animals to support human health, education, or well-being. This includes therapy, education, and activity-based programs.
Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) is one specific type of AAI. It is a clinical, goal‑directed therapeutic intervention led by a trained healthcare or human‑service professional, with progress formally documented as part of treatment.
Are all animals suitable for AAI?
No. Only domesticated, well-socialised, and healthy animals are considered appropriate for AAI sessions. They must be trained with humane methods and carefully evaluated to ensure they can safely and comfortably participate in human‑focused activities.
