Catherine Whitlow

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT CATHERINE WHITLOW

I am a qualified teacher and Animal Assisted Therapist, currently working with schools across the North West to support the emotional and psychological wellbeing of students through Animal Assisted Intervention (AAI). I am deeply passionate about the transformative power of therapy dogs and am committed to ensuring their welfare and the respect they deserve within educational settings. With a background in education, I believe that all children deserve the opportunity to flourish. My work is dedicated to enriching and healing young lives, supporting them through trauma informed practices, and helping them find their confidence and joy in learning. I am also an advocate for educating school leaders and teachers on the benefits of therapy dogs in schools, as well as how to properly support these incredible animals. Currently, I am studying a Foundation Diploma in Therapeutic Safety in Trauma, focusing on the Polyvagal Theory, to further enhance my ability to support students and deepen my knowledge of therapeutic models. Additionally, I have co-written an accredited CPD training course, Animal-Assisted Intervention for Schools, which aims to equip aspiring Animal Therapists with the tools to effectively and safely implement AAI in schools. With a teaching qualification and a degree in Education Studies, I also bring a wealth of experience from my previous role running a private tuition business, where I helped children rediscover the enjoyment of learning and build the confidence to tackle new challenges.