Animal-Assisted Healing Starts with Companionship

Experience the transformative power of animal-assisted therapy. Our gentle companion help's create a safe, nurturing environment for emotional healing and personal growth.

Jaslyn Zarate, RCSWI, C-AAIS

Services located at Ellie Mental Health, Estero

Accepted Insurance Providers

Aetna
Cigna/Evernorth
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Self Pay

Therapeutic Philosophy

"In the body lies the map our minds have misplaced; when sensation, movement, story, and soul are welcomed into the light of awareness, we remember the way home to ourselves."

About Paws and Healing

About

Hi there! I'm Jazz, a registered clinical social worker intern currently pursuing Florida state licensure. My practice is built around the belief that healing happens best when we honor the whole person—your mind, body, and spirit. I specialize in animal-assisted therapy because I've witnessed firsthand how groundbreaking the human-animal bond can be, especially for children, trauma survivors, and neurodivergent individuals who might connect with animals in ways that feel safer or more natural than traditional therapy settings.

Every person who walks through my door brings their own unique story, background, and way of experiencing the world. I'm committed to creating a space that feels culturally responsive and genuinely welcoming, whether you're 4 years old or in your golden years, whether you're coming as an individual or with your whole family.

Read About My Profile on Psychology Today

View My Psychology Today Profile

Evidence-Based Approaches

Experiential Therapy, ARC Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Therapies, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Parent-Child Interactions, Mindfulness, Self-Care and Boundaries, and Attachment-Based Work.

Evidence-Based Approaches

Watch My Introduction Video

Client Stories

SM

"After struggling with anxiety for years, my sessions with Luka the therapy dog have been life-changing. His gentle composure helps me feel safe enough to process my emotions. I've never felt more understood."

Sarah M.
Anxiety & Trauma Recovery
JL

"My son has autism and has always struggled with social interactions. Working with Luka has given him confidence and taught him patience. The progress we've seen in just a few months is incredible."

Jennifer L.
Parent of Child with Autism
MR

"When my dad died suddenly, I felt completely numb until I began working with Jazz and Luka. Luka would sit quietly beside me as I cried, his quiet reliability helping me find my voice again. Through his calm companionship, I learned that shared grief can slowly transform into gratitude for the precious time we had together."

Margaret R.
Grief & Loss Support

Our Services

Animal Assisted Therapy

Discover the life-changing potential of the human-animal bond in a therapeutic setting, creating a safe and nurturing environment for healing and growth.

Trauma & PTSD Support

Move from surviving to thriving with trauma-informed, evidence-based approaches that honor your body's wisdom and build lasting resilience.

Neurodiverse Support

Compassionate, strength-based support for individuals navigating autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent journeys. We collaborate to build practical skills and develop individualized strategies that celebrate your uniqueness while fostering sustainable growth.

Mood Disorders

Engage in innovative therapeutic treatment to help reduce anxiety, depression, and stress facilitated through the natural calming presence of our specially trained therapy dog, Luka.

Social Skills Development

Cultivate self-confidence and develop meaningful social connections in a calm, sensory-conscious environment where you can flourish at your own pace.

Grief & Loss Support

Find meaningful validation and restorative healing during times of profound loss, supported by the unconditional acceptance, gentle comfort, and therapeutic presence of Luka.

Disability Accommodation Consult

Provide consultation and support for individuals with disabilities to ensure they have access to the services they need.

Somatic Therapy

Combine somatic awareness, mindfulness techniques, and intentional movement to support trauma recovery, stress reduction, and emotional healing through grounded, body-centered practices.

Family Therapy

Develop stronger family relationships and communication through animal-assisted therapy experiences that offer a serene, accepting space where family members can grow, process challenges together, and deepen their understanding of one another at a comfortable pace.

Get in Touch

Book Your Session

Location: 22904 Lyden Dr, Estero, FL 33928

Service Area: Southwest Florida - Estero, Fort Myers, Naples, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, Lehigh Acres, Sanibel, Marco Island

Phone: (954) 546-1016

Email: pawsandhealing@gmail.com

Hours: Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Weekends: Saturday appointments available

Paws and Healing Contact

Ready to unleash healing?

Enhance your wellbeing with paws-itive therapy and discover the life-changing bond that awaits. Book now and see how our therapeutic animal opens doors to new possibilities.