About Animal-Assisted Therapy of Toronto

Animal-Assisted Therapy of Toronto (AAT Toronto) is a private paediatric therapy practice providing neurodiversity-affirming, relationship-based services across Toronto.

Our practice is built on the belief that meaningful relationships are at the heart of therapy. We thoughtfully incorporate animals into therapy sessions to support engagement, emotional regulation, motivation, confidence, social participation, and skill development. Rather than being the focus of therapy, the animal serves as a therapeutic partner, helping children feel safe, connected, and motivated to participate in meaningful occupations.

Every interaction between the child, therapist, and animal is intentional and guided by clinical reasoning. Whether supporting emotional regulation during a challenging task, encouraging movement through play, or fostering communication and social connection, animals become one of many therapeutic tools used to help children achieve their goals.

We are looking for an Occupational Therapist who shares our values of compassionate, family-centred, and strengths-based care.

Why Join AAT Toronto?

Animal-assisted therapy is much more than bringing an animal to work. It is a specialized area of practice that combines evidence-informed occupational therapy with careful consideration of animal welfare, handler skills, safety, and ethical practice.

If you have an animal that you believe may be well-suited for therapeutic work, we encourage you to apply. Suitable therapy animals are not limited to dogs—other calm, predictable,



and well-trained species may also be considered. We welcome clinicians who are passionate about exploring how their unique animal-human partnership could enhance therapy.

Successful candidates will receive mentorship and education on implementing Animal-Assisted Therapy into practice. Training includes integrating animals into treatment planning, risk management, infection prevention, animal welfare, and developing interventions that are both meaningful and evidence-informed.

You do not need prior experience in Animal-Assisted Therapy—we are looking for clinicians who are curious, collaborative, and eager to learn.

Responsibilities

- Provide high-quality, neurodiversity-affirming occupational therapy services to children and youth in community settings.
- Complete assessments and develop individualized intervention plans.
- Deliver engaging, occupation-based interventions that support participation in daily life.
- Collaborate with families, educators, daycare staff, and other members of the child's team.
- Educate caregivers and provide practical strategies that can be implemented outside of therapy sessions.
- Complete documentation, reports,



and progress notes in accordance with professional standards.
- Participate in ongoing mentorship, team collaboration, and professional development.
- Thoughtfully integrate a certified therapy animal into intervention using AAT Toronto's clinical framework and standards of practice.
- Prioritize both client safety and animal welfare throughout all interactions.

Qualifications

- Registered Occupational Therapist in good standing with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario.
- Professional liability insurance.
- Experience in paediatric occupational therapy.
- Interest in Animal-Assisted Therapy.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills.
- Robust clinical reasoning and problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to work independently while managing a flexible caseload.
- Reliable transportation within the Greater Toronto Area.
- Current Vulnerable Sector Check.

What We Offer

- Flexible scheduling with part-time opportunities.
- Competitive compensation.
- Individualized mentorship from an experienced Occupational Therapist specializing in Animal-Assisted Therapy.
- Comprehensive education in integrating Animal-Assisted Therapy into pediatric occupational therapy.
- Opportunities to develop a unique area of clinical expertise.
- Administrative support for scheduling, billing, and referrals.
- A collaborative, supportive, and growing team.
- The opportunity to make a meaningful impact through creative, relationship-based care.

Pay: $108.00-$144.00 per hour

Work Location: In person

📌 Occupational Therapist (Canada)
🏢 Animal-Assisted Therapy of Toronto (AAT Toronto)
📍 Canada