Pet Care, People Care: Bridging Veterinary Social Work with Mental Health

Introduction

Caring for animals involves far more than providing food, water, and shelter. Behind every adoption, rescue, or routine checkup is a network of dedicated individuals—veterinary professionals, volunteers, and pet families—who experience a unique blend of emotional highs and lows. Veterinary social work emerges as a vital link, addressing the human side of animal welfare, whether that’s helping a bereaved pet parent heal or offering support to exhausted veterinary staff.

Our practice recognizes that the well-being of pets is inextricably tied to the well-being of those who care for them. That’s why we provide Aetna-covered therapy sessions and run two Animal Grief Groups—one virtual for anyone in Texas, and one in person at our Flower Mound location (convenient to Coppell, Frisco, Grapevine, Southlake, Argyle, and Highland Village). Space is limited, so read on to learn how this specialized approach might support you or someone you know.

The Heavy Toll on Veterinary Staff

Elevated Stress & Suicide Risk

Veterinary professionals face a blend of job-related stressors—end-of-life care decisions, client pressures, and long work hours. Research shows these stressors can contribute to a heightened risk of suicidal ideation (Nett et al., 2015). Another review found that veterinary surgeons consistently face elevated stress and burnout, potentially leading to higher suicide rates compared to the general population (Bartram & Baldwin, 2010). These findings underscore the need for specialized mental health services, including counseling that understand the veterinary context.

The Role of Veterinary Social Work

Veterinary social work (VSW) is a growing field dedicated to serving both the professional and emotional challenges faced in animal care settings. According to Kogan et al. (2019), VSW involves everything from crisis intervention and staff counseling to grief support for clients. By valuing a broad skill set—therapy, mediation, advocacy—these social workers help veterinary teams cope with complex emotional demands, reducing burnout and promoting a healthier work culture.

Pet Grief: More Than Just Mourning

Deep Emotional Ties

For many of us, losing a pet feels like losing a family member. Yet, society sometimes minimizes that pain. Walsh (2009) emphasizes how human-animal bonds can be as profound as human-human relationships, making pet loss an event that deserves proper acknowledgment and healing.

Recognizing Disenfranchised Grief

Quackenbush and Glickman (1984) were among the first to highlight pet loss as a form of grief that’s often overlooked. Pet parents can experience a sense of isolation or even shame about how intensely they feel this loss—further justifying the importance of pet-specific grief counseling.

Our Two Pet Grief Counseling Groups: Virtual in Texas & In-Person in Flower Mound, Texas

1. Virtual Pet Grief Group

   • Open to Anyone in Texas: Whether you live in Austin, San Antonio, Midland, Houston or Amarillo, you can connect with us for counseling online.

   • Safe, Nonjudgmental Environment: Share experiences, learn coping strategies, and build supportive friendships—all from the comfort of your home.

2. In-Person Pet Grief Group (Flower Mound)

   • Serving Coppell, Frisco, Grapevine, Southlake, Argyle, Highland Village: Our in person location is ideal for those seeking a face-to-face setting in the North DFW area.

   • Limited Spaces: We keep counseling groups small to ensure personalized attention. Reserve your spot soon if you’re interested.

Aetna Coverage + Cash Pay

We accept Aetna insurance, aiming to make therapy more accessible. If you prefer cash pay, we offer flexible payment options for all counseling services.

Why a Holistic Approach Matters

Emotional Resilience for Veterinary Staff

With specialized veterinary social work interventions, clinic teams can better manage compassion fatigue, reduce burnout, and deliver top-tier animal care.

Support for Pet Parents

From dealing with pet adoption stress to processing bereavement, our practice provides counseling that respects the depth of your human-animal bond.

Stronger Community Ties

When we invest in the emotional welfare of veterinary professionals and pet families, we create healthier communities, ensuring pets receive compassionate, informed care and families feel supported through every stage of an animal’s life.

Key Takeaways

1. Veterinary Staff Need Support
   With higher-than-average stress levels, professionals in animal care settings benefit immensely from therapydesigned for their unique challenges (Nett et al., 2015; Bartram & Baldwin, 2010).

2. Pet Loss Is Valid
   Grief over losing a beloved animal is genuine and may require specialized counseling (Walsh, 2009; Quackenbush & Glickman, 1984).

3. Two Pet Grief Groups

   • Virtual: For any Texas resident who needs flexible, online support.

   • In-Person: Held in Flower Mound, near Coppell, Frisco, Grapevine, Southlake, Argyle, Highland Village.

4. Aetna & Payment Options
   We welcome Aetna insurance and offer cash pay choices to ensure therapy is accessible.

5. Register Soon
   Each group has limited space to maintain an intimate environment. Sign up early if you’re ready to start healing.

Ready to Register or Want More Details?

Don’t wait—spaces fill up fast. Whether you’re a veterinary professional seeking tailored support or a pet parent grieving a recent loss, our Pet Grief Groups and Aetna-covered individual therapy options can guide you toward emotional relief and a renewed sense of connection.

• Contact Us: Reach out for group registration or to learn more about our specialized veterinary social work services.

• Learn More: Check our website for details on scheduling, coverage, and additional mental health resources.

• Virtual or In-Person: Choose the format that works best for your lifestyle and comfort level.

Because caring for pets often means caring for ourselves—let’s make sure no one navigates the challenges of veterinary work or pet loss alone.

References (APA Style)

• Bartram, D. J., & Baldwin, D. S. (2010). Veterinary surgeons and suicide: A structured review of possible influences on increased risk. Veterinary Record, 166(13), 388–397.

• Kogan, L. R., Schoenfeld-Tacher, R., & Hellyer, P. (2019). The emerging role of veterinary social work in veterinary medicine. Journal of Veterinary Medical Education, 46(4), 544–552.

• Nett, R. J., Witte, T. K., Holzbauer, S. M., Elchos, B. L., Campagnolo, E. R., Musgrave, K. J., … & Funk, R. H. (2015). Prevalence of risk factors for suicide among veterinarians—United States, 2014. MMWR: Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report, 64(5), 131–135.

• Quackenbush, W., & Glickman, T. (1984). Pet loss and human emotional needs. Social Work, 29(1), 50–54.

• Walsh, F. (2009). Human-animal bonds I: The relational significance of companion animals. Family Process, 48(4), 462–480.

Beyond Burnout: Innovative Self-Care, Relationship-Building, and Group Support in DFW

Introduction to Burnout Support

Life’s daily pressures—work demands, family responsibilities, and personal goals—can leave us feeling worn down. Standard self-care tips like bubble baths and journaling may help, but some people crave more dynamic and science-backed approaches. Whether you live in Flower Mound, Southlake, Coppell, Grapevine, Irving, Las Colinas, or Carrollton, Texas, and you’re exploring ways to beat burnout or seek therapy, we invite you to discover innovative self-care methods, the power of interpersonal relationships, and the transformative benefits of group therapy.

Why Go “Beyond Burnout”?

Burnout can sneak up on anyone—professionals juggling intense workloads, caregivers supporting loved ones, or people coping with sudden life changes. The symptoms may look like:

• Exhaustion or feeling “zapped” by the end of the day.

• Reduced Motivation to engage in activities you once enjoyed.

• Strained Relationships, where patience runs thin, and conflicts escalate more easily.

But burnout isn’t inevitable. By combining dynamic self-care strategies, relationship-focused skills, and professional support, you can reclaim a sense of balance and purpose.

Outside-the-Box Self-Care Tools

1. Infrared Saunas

• Why It Helps: Infrared sauna therapy offers deep, gentle heat that may ease muscle tension and improve circulation. A pilot study suggests potential benefits for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis (Oosterveld et al., 2009), highlighting its possible positive impact on overall well-being.

• What to Expect: Sessions typically last 20–45 minutes. Many people report improved relaxation, reduced stress, and better sleep quality (NIH, 2022).

2. PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) Therapy

• NASA Roots: PEMF technology was researched by NASA to support astronaut health (Goodwin, 2003), focusing on bone density and cellular function in zero-gravity conditions.

• Local Wellness Trend: Today, you can find PEMF sessions at certain wellness centers. Users often report heightened relaxation, pain relief, and enhanced recovery after workouts.

3. Kickboxing & High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

• Why It Works: These fast-paced workouts offer a potent stress release, especially for those who need movementand intensity to stay engaged. Plus, the endorphin rush often boosts mood and motivation.

4. Cryotherapy

• What It Is: Quick, super-cooled sessions (often a few minutes long) that expose your body to very low temperatures.

• Potential Benefits: Though research varies, many participants feel a sense of invigoration and stress relief, potentially improving mental clarity.

5. Ionic Foot Baths

• Why It Helps: While scientific consensus is mixed, some people find the ritual soothing and enjoy the novelty, making it easier to stick to a self-care routine.

The Importance of Interpersonal Relationships & Group Support

Why Relationships Matter

Burnout doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Healthy relationships—with partners, friends, colleagues, or fellow group therapy members—can provide emotional support, accountability, and understanding. Sharing daily stresses and triumphs fosters interpersonal effectiveness, meaning you learn to:

• Communicate Needs Clearly: Express your boundaries and requests in ways that others can respect.

• Resolve Conflicts: Approach disagreements constructively, keeping relationships intact.

• Build Mutual Support: Actively give and receive help, cultivating trust and empathy.

Group Therapy in the Metroplex

If you’re in Flower Mound, Southlake, Coppell, Grapevine, Irving, Las Colinas, or Carrollton, group therapy might be a valuable resource for tackling stress and enhancing relational skills. Group sessions allow you to:

• Practice Real-Time Skills: Rehearse communication, boundary-setting, and emotional expression.

• Learn from Peers: Hear how others cope with similar challenges, sparking fresh insights.

• Foster a Sense of Community: Realize you’re not alone in your struggles—an antidote to isolation and burnout.

Setting Boundaries & Finding Professional Guidance

1. Assess Your Environment
   Sometimes, no amount of self-care offsets a toxic work environment or overwhelming schedule. A therapist can help you evaluate whether certain roles, relationships, or responsibilities push you toward burnout.

2. Prioritize Self-Worth
   Recognizing your value helps you uphold boundaries and say “no” when demands exceed your capacity.

3. Seek Support
   Partnering with a licensed counselor or joining a group in the DFW area ensures you have both professional insights and peer support. This blend can help you manage stress more effectively, maintain healthier relationships, and explore creative self-care.

Ready to Build a Healthier, Happier Life?

Burnout doesn’t have to define you. By exploring innovative wellness methods—like infrared saunas, PEMF therapy, HIIT workouts, or cryotherapy—and investing in relationships, you can transform how you handle life’s pressures.

Our Services

Located in Flower Mound, we serve Southlake, Coppell, Grapevine, Irving, Las Colinas, Carrollton, and beyond with:

• Individual Counseling: Personalized strategies for stress reduction and boundary-setting.

• Group Therapy: Skills-based sessions to enhance interpersonal effectiveness and foster accountability.

• Family & Relationship Counseling: Guidance for couples or families to strengthen communication and unity.

References (APA Style)

• Goodwin, T. J. (2003). Physiotherapy via Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields: NASA Technical Memorandum. NASA.

• Maslach, C., Schaufeli, W. B., & Leiter, M. P. (2022). Job burnout and its impact on human service professionals. Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 27(3), 320–335.

• National Institutes of Health [NIH]. (2022). Infrared Sauna: An Overview. https://www.nih.gov/ (Sample URL for demonstration)

• Oosterveld, F. G. J., Rasker, J. J., Floors, M., et al. (2009). Infrared sauna in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis: A pilot study. Clinical Rheumatology, 28(1), 29–34.

• Schueller, S. M., & Parks, A. C. (2020). The science of self-help: Translating positive psychology research into increased individual happiness. The Journal of Positive Psychology, 15(5), 620–630.

• Smith, L., & Jex, S. (2019). Humor at work: A psychological perspective on employee well-being. The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science, 55(3), 341–357.

(Additional references from prior versions can be included as needed.)

Take the Next Step

If you’re ready to go beyond burnout and discover a healthier way of living—one that balances novel wellness methods, strong relationships, and professional therapy—we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services in Flower Mound, Southlake, Coppell, Grapevine, Irving, Las Colinas, and Carrollton, TX. Together, we’ll craft a plan that resonates with your personal needs, goals, and lifestyle.

Pet Grief Support in Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, Southlake, and Las Colinas, TX

Integrating Veterinary Social Work for Compassionate Care

Author: Mikayla Jacob, LCSW-S, LISW, Founder and Director of Clinical Services at Sentient Path PLLC
Date: January 21, 2025

Introduction

Losing a beloved pet can feel overwhelming. Many of us form deep emotional bonds with our companion animals, and saying goodfbye can be just as heartbreaking as losing a close friend or family member (Archer, 1997). However, pet grief is often overlooked or minimized, leaving individuals to cope alone. In Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, Southlake, and Las Colinas, Texas, our practice offers specialized pet grief therapy and group support led by a team that includes a therapist trained in Veterinary Social Work (VSW). We accept Aetna insurance for our pet grief groups and provide cash pay options to ensure that compassionate care is accessible and affordable.

What Is Veterinary Social Work?

Veterinary Social Work (VSW) is an emerging interdisciplinary model of care that addresses the complex emotional, social, and mental health aspects of human-animal relationships (International Association of Veterinary Social Workers [IAVSW], 2022). According to Sutton-Ryan (2022), many individuals first seek professional interaction—not with a social worker—but in veterinary spaces. By embedding social work services there, VSW increases access to much-needed support, including pet grief counseling.

VSW practice highlights four core areas:

1. Grief and Loss (including companion animal loss)

2. Compassion Fatigue and Mental Health of Veterinary Professionals

3. Evidence-Based Animal-Assisted Interventions

4. The Link Between Interpersonal Violence and Animal Abuse

Recognizing these connections is crucial, especially given that 70% of U.S. households have at least one pet (American Pet Products Association [APPA], 2022). When a pet dies, the resulting grief can be significant and, at times, disenfranchised—meaning society doesn’t always acknowledge or validate it (Walsh, 2009).

Meet Our Therapist Trained in Veterinary Social Work: Angela Corley, LMSW

One of our pet grief groups is led by Angela Corley, a therapist with extensive training in Veterinary Social Work. Angela has experience supporting individuals and families through the challenges of pet loss, using evidence-based interventions that address both the emotional toll on pet owners and the potential secondary stress on veterinary professionals.

Why VSW Matters for Pet Grief

• Holistic Approach: By understanding the human-animal bond, a VSW-trained therapist like Angela Corley can integrate relevant emotional, social, and relational factors into each session.

• Validated Experiences: VSW professionals acknowledge that pet loss is a major life event, deserving the same level of care as other forms of grief (Sutton-Ryan, 2022).

• Community Education: Angela’s role also includes providing resources and education to veterinarians, vet techs, and others in the local pet care community, fostering a broader network of empathy and support.

Understanding Pet Grief

Pet grief often mirrors the stages of human grief:

1. Shock/Denial

2. Anger

3. Bargaining

4. Depression

5. Acceptance

Yet, cultural or societal stigmas can leave bereaved pet owners feeling isolated or misunderstood (Zilcha-Mano et al., 2012). Through pet grief therapy, you can process these emotions in a safe space, knowing your pain is real and valid.

Individual Counseling Benefits

• Safe, Confidential Environment: Discuss your grief at your own pace.

• Personalized Coping Strategies: Learn mindfulness techniques, journaling, or memorialization activities to honor your pet.

• Focused Support: Address any feelings of guilt or regret, common after the loss of a companion animal.

Group Therapy for Pet Loss

For many, shared experience can be a powerful catalyst for healing. Our pet grief support group offers:

• Collective Understanding: You’ll meet others who empathize with your loss, reducing isolation.

• Mutual Learning: Hearing how others cope provides new strategies and insights.

• Guidance from a VSW Specialist: With Angela Corley’s background, the group benefits from a therapist trained to integrate the human-animal bond into therapeutic interventions.

Why Veterinary Social Work Is Crucial for Pet Grief

• Holistic Integration: VSW recognizes that mental health, veterinary care, and the human-animal bond are interlinked (Sutton-Ryan, 2022).

• Preventing Disenfranchised Grief: VSW-trained therapists validate the depth of your relationship with your pet.

• Support for Veterinary Professionals: Veterinary teams experience high rates of compassion fatigue; VSW can mitigate these stressors (Nett et al., 2015).

Insurance and Payment Options

We strive to make pet grief counseling as accessible as possible:

• Aetna Insurance: Our practice accepts Aetna, streamlining the process for insured clients.

• Cash Pay: For those without insurance or who prefer self-pay, we offer flexible options to ensure you receive quality care.

Serving Flower Mound, Coppell, Grapevine, Southlake, and Las Colinas, TX

Our team is dedicated to supporting local communities across the DFW area. Whether you opt for in-person sessions or telehealth, we tailor our approach to meet your needs. You’re never alone in this journey; we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Taking the Next Step

1. Reach Out: Schedule a consultation to discuss individual counseling or group therapy with our Veterinary Social Worker.

2. Validate Your Feelings: Remember that losing a pet can be just as impactful as losing a human loved one.

3. Join Our Pet Grief Group: Share your experiences, learn from others, and gain professional insights from Angela Corley.

4. Continue the Conversation: Pet grief can be a long process. Allow yourself the space, time, and support to heal.

Conclusion

Pet grief is real, deeply felt, and deserving of professional care. With Veterinary Social Work training and a compassionate approach, our practice is uniquely equipped to help you navigate this challenging time. Contact us todayto learn more about our pet grief therapy options, including Aetna coverage and cash pay alternatives. Let’s honor your beloved companion together and set you on a path to healing and hope.

References

American Pet Products Association. (2022). APPA national pet owners survey. https://www.americanpetproducts.org/pubs_survey.asp

Archer, J. (1997). Why do people love their pets? Evolution and Human Behavior, 18(4), 237–259.

International Association of Veterinary Social Workers. (2022). IAVSW website. https://veterinarysocialwork.org/

Nett, R. J., Witte, T. K., Holzbauer, S. M., Elchos, B. L., Campagnolo, E. R., Musgrave, K. J., Carter, K. K., Kurkjian, K. M., Vanicek, C., O’Leary, D. R., Pride, K. R., & Funk, R. H. (2015). Prevalence of risk factors for suicide among veterinarians—United States, 2014. MMWR: Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report, 64(5), 131–132.

Sutton-Ryan, A. (2022). Awareness of veterinary social work in veterinary professionals capstone project. University of Tennessee Veterinary Social Work Certificate.

Walsh, F. (2009). Human-animal bonds I: The relational significance of companion animals. Family Process, 48(4), 462–480.

Zilcha-Mano, S., Mikulincer, M., & Shaver, P. R. (2012). Pet in the therapy room: An attachment perspective on animal-assisted therapy. Social Work, 57(2), 165–177.

Turning Loss into Legacy: How Family Struggles Shape Resilience

Finding Strength in Grief, Addiction, and Family

Introduction
Grief is a powerful teacher. Every loss carries with it a story of love, struggle, and legacy. For me, moments of grief have been moments of reckoning—times when I’m reminded of the strength it takes to endure and the quiet power of radical acceptance. Loss isn’t new to me, but each experience reshapes my perspective on family, identity, and growth. And behind many of these experiences, I’ve witnessed the complex interplay of addiction and recovery, forces that have both fractured and strengthened the roots of my Midwestern family heritage. These trials aren’t just chapters in my life story; they’ve become pieces of my “why”—why I push forward, why I strive, and why I refuse to let struggle define my future.

The Weight of Legacy
My family’s story is one of grit, determination, and a deep connection to the land and each other. On both sides, my parents were the first to attend college, leaving behind familiar routines and expectations. Their choices forged a new path that others didn’t always understand. Yet, it was this leap into the unknown that paved the way for opportunities I might never have had otherwise.

On both my mother and father’s side, the family’s Midwestern farming heritage is rich, but it’s also marked by loss and hardship. In these communities, traditions run deep, and every season of cultivation mirrors the cycles of life and death that we all experience. Within these cycles, I’ve witnessed how addiction can quietly weave itself into family narratives. I’ve seen how substance use can become a way to cope with the pressures of rural life, isolation, and unprocessed grief. In some cases, the legacy of addiction is a heavy one that families carry for generations, compounding the pain of loss and misunderstanding.

Addiction, Recovery, and the Complexity of Loss
Grief takes many forms, but when it’s tied to addiction, it’s often layered with a painful sense of “what if.” What if they had found help sooner? What if the community had understood the disease of addiction and not just the behaviors it produces? Too often, families face these questions alone.

But there’s another side: recovery. I’ve learned that recovery, even when it’s not complete or perfect, is a form of resilience. It’s a profound statement that no matter how deep the roots of addiction go, there is always a chance to break the cycle. Witnessing the struggle for recovery in my family has shown me the courage it takes to face one’s own demons. It’s a reminder that hardship doesn’t have to end in tragedy, and that the human spirit is capable of profound transformation.

These experiences have shaped my understanding of loss, pushing me to recognize the humanity in every story. Instead of allowing grief to paralyze me, it galvanizes me. Each loss—each complicated by substances, misunderstandings, and the weight of unspoken pain—pushes me to dig deeper into my own “why.” Why am I so determined to find purpose in these struggles? Because acknowledging hardship is also acknowledging the power that comes with it.

Grief as a Call to Action
For many people, grief can be paralyzing. For me, it’s a catalyst. Loss has a way of waking me up, pushing me to lean into purpose and pursue what matters most. It doesn’t make grief easier, but it gives it meaning. I’ve experienced the loss of family members who I loved deeply—each time, the ache of absence brings me closer to understanding just how important it is to honor their legacy by living with intention.

Radical acceptance has been my guide. It’s not passive acceptance or pretending everything is fine. It’s about seeing reality as it is—not as I wish it would be—and still finding a way forward. Loss reminds me that I have no control over what happens, but I do have control over how I respond. This perspective keeps me from getting stuck in the “why me” spiral. Instead, I ask myself, “What now?”

Isolation and the Pursuit of Belonging
Isolation has been a recurring theme in my life. The choice my parents made to carve out a new path for our family meant that I was often distant—physically and emotionally—from my larger family. I grew up feeling like a satellite orbiting around a world I wasn't fully part of. For years, that feeling hurt. It still does at times. But over time, I’ve come to see the value of this experience. Isolation gave me independence. It taught me how to navigate uncertainty on my own.

Still, there’s something sacred about family. Even when we are distant from each other, there’s an invisible thread that pulls us back toward one another. I think about the legacy of those who came before me—the struggles, the sacrifices, and the perseverance—and I feel connected to something much bigger than myself.

How We Carry the Stories Forward
When I think about what it means to honor those I’ve lost, I come back to this idea of legacy. I carry their stories with me, not just as memories but as guiding principles. Every loss becomes a quiet reminder to keep pushing forward. Every setback is a chance to practice radical acceptance and remember that while I can’t control everything, I can control how I show up.

My parents' journey, my family's Midwest roots, and the grief I’ve experienced have all taught me the same lesson: The way forward isn't always clear, but you walk it anyway. You honor the people who came before you by doing what they couldn't, wouldn’t, or didn’t have the chance to do.

Conclusion
Grief, like family, is complicated. It’s a reflection of love and loss at the same time. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned from the sacrifices of those before me, it’s that moving forward—even when it’s painful—is one of the greatest acts of love. It’s how we honor the legacy of those we’ve lost. By choosing to build, to grow, and to push forward, we’re not just surviving—we’re thriving in their memory.