About the Institute of Canine Psychotherapy
The Institute of Canine Psychotherapy (I.C.P.) is a recognized Institute, meeting the highest standards in 1) content and courses, 2) delivery and programs, and 3) instructor expertise. I.C.P. is the only educational forum teaching psychotherapeutic practices for canines.
Founder, Billie Groom, has dedicated over three decades to working with dogs over the age of six months, professionals, and pet lovers. Her extensive work in the field and studies led to the development of a method for dogs proven to prevent abuse, neglect, surrender, and euthanasia due to behaviorally related reasons. No other expert, behaviorist, professional, or institution is knowledgeable or practiced in Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
The fields of cognitive science and canine cognition have made a significant contribution to our understanding of canine behavior, health and welfare. It is commonly accepted that canines are sentient beings whose behaviors are driven by cognition and emotion. Behavioral experts and educational institutions restrict their teaching practices to Conditioning methods, thus discouraging students and professionals from discovering, exploring, or learning psychotherapeutic methods.
Why Choose to Learn with I.C.P.?
Why learn Psychotherapy for Canines?
Psychotherapeutic practices provide skills, tools, insights, and hands-on exercises to effectively work through emotional issues leading to behaviors considered unwanted, unacceptable, or unnecessary. Psychotherapeutic practices recognize the impact of individual perception, emotions, and feelings leading to unhealthy thoughts causing anxiety, fear, or negative thought patterns. By establishing cognitive exercises proven to reset brain patterns, CCBT advances rehabilitation beyond conditioning to the state of intrinsic motivation and self-regulation.
“Witnessing a dog process and decide to continue walking without reacting, was so different from anything I had experienced when using reinforcement and rewards. My client cried tears of joy. She could feel her dog’s comfort.” Jake Cove, CCBT Instructor
Leading the Way in Canine Behavioral Therapy
I.C.P. is the only educational institute that integrates science, neuroscience, psychology, research, and extensive hands-on experience to provide professionals and volunteers with applicable skills and knowledge to advance their knowledge, enhance their profession, and increase their impact.
“I.C.P. is not only a pioneer in CCBT, but also a leader in behavioral education. It is vital students are not only provided with certifications, but with the knowledge, confidence, and support to meet the needs of dogs, pet parents, and rescue organizations.” Dr. M. Roth, DVM
Why Learn Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
CBT is a scientifically proven methodology designed to address behaviors stemming from cognition (common in adolescent stage) or emotions. CBT addresses the reason for the behavior, which is not, as commonly assumed, previous abuse, trauma, fear, or lack of socialization, but, rather the “block in the brain”, such as inability to process, cognitive dissonance, reliance on routines, habit, and/or learned behavior.
Canine CBT adheres to the principles of CBT, which is completely harm-free. CBT recognizes mindfulness, emotions, and cognition. CBT provides agency, respects autonomy, and induces self-processing and decision making.
“Canine CBT has proven effective because the program adheres to the principles and practices of CBT (for humans). There is no other program or method that recognizes cognitive abilities and leads to intrinsic motivation and self regulation. Canine CBT by ICP is revolutionary.” Michael Burns, Child Trauma Expert, Psychology Professor
The I.C.P. Advantage
Becoming a successful canine behaviorist goes beyond acquiring certifications offered through traditional dog training schools.
I.C.P. Diploma course in CCBT provides real-life videos, one-on-one sessions with expert advisors, recordings with real clients, and a renowned mentorship program that ensures your success (the mentorship program begins during the program, allowing you to earn money and increase your skills set, confidence, and expertise).
Your success is paramount to us, to saving dog’s lives, and to helping pet parents.
“I have never taken a course that provides such individualized attention, applicable tools, helpful tips and guidelines, “real life” experiences, and advanced knowledge. This program sets a new level of standard in canine behavior education.” Harrison O’Neill, ICP Student
“My journey as a trainer started with a positive reinforcement certification, which was great, but I wanted to keep learning to better serve my clients. I engaged in many canine behavior related courses, and nothing compares to the programs offered by ICP. ”
“Billie Groom, a leader in canine behavior and education, has pioneered the Institute of Canine Psychotherapy. Advanced education focused on innovative methodologies and best practices are now available. Cutting edge courses designed to help professionals and advocates designed to increase their impact in the canine community! …innovative approaches to understanding and effectively addressing dog behaviors that will enhance the lives of the canines you love.”