philosophy & approach to counselling
I am committed to psychotherapy and believe strongly in the potential for healing and growth through connection: with other people, other pets and creatures, music and art, the natural world, and with oneself.
Therapeutic Approaches ~ Trauma Informed practice
Mindful Self Compassion
Relational-Cultural Theory
Existential-Humanistic approach
Mindfulness
Human-Animal Bond & Companion animal (pet) Therapy
Attachment
Music & creative arts
Diversity and Multiculturalism
the power of pets
It is widely agreed upon by many cultures and individuals that the companionship of an animal has health-enhancing effects. Given the high levels of stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues in contemporary society combined with growing isolation due to the diminishment of family and community in urban centres, the companionship and presence of an animal or a pet can be highly beneficial. The relationships we have with pets can be precious to us.
recent publications
Nitkin, P. (2021). Counselling with a therapy-animal. In Kogan, L., & Erdman, P. (Eds.), Career Paths in Human-Animal Interaction for Social and Behavioral Scientists (1st ed.) (pp. 165-167). Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780429347283
Nitkin, P. & Buchanan, M. (2020) Relationships between people with cancer and their companion animals: What helps and hinders, Anthrozoos, 33(2), 243-259.
