About this ebook
Written in a warm, down-to-earth voice by Charlotte Williams, a frontline practitioner and founder of a respected UK-based therapeutic organisation, Starting Strong shares hard-earned insights, case examples and powerful moments of growth, failure and learning. It offers clear guidance on the why, how and what of AAI, from ethical foundations to practical session ideas, without overwhelming jargon or unrealistic promises.
This is not a clinical textbook or a feel-good memoir. It is a toolkit for action. Readers will come away with a deeper understanding of what AAI really involves, how to get started safely and ethically, and how to reflect, grow and stay grounded as they develop their own approach. If you believe animals have something important to offer in support of human healing and connection, this book will help you turn that belief into practice.
About the author
Dr Charlotte Williams is the founder of Elysian, a leading UK organisation delivering therapeutic education and animal-assisted interventions. With a background in social work, leadership and wellbeing, she draws on over a decade of experience supporting children, families and professionals to embed creative, compassionate approaches in education, care and therapy.
