About Us

Animal Assisted Therapy Programs of Colorado (AATPC) is a nationally recognized nonprofit providing evidence‑based mental health care integrated with therapeutic animal interactions. Our 3.5‑acre farm is home to horses, donkeys, alpacas, goats, dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and rats—all thoughtfully incorporated into treatment with children, adolescents, and adults.

We serve clients of all ages, income levels, and insurance statuses, and we host a robust training program including an online Certification in Animal Assisted Psychotherapy and 4–5 master’s‑level interns onsite each year.

We are seeking a licensed clinician who is passionate about blending traditional psychotherapy with innovative, compassionate animal‑assisted approaches.

Position Overview

The Licensed Mental Health Clinician will provide high‑quality, in‑person psychotherapy while integrating animal‑assisted interventions. This role includes maintaining a part‑time caseload, collaborating with a clinical team, mentoring interns, and participating in daily animal care tasks.

The position also includes community outreach, group facilitation, and occasional off‑site responsibilities.

Key ResponsibilitiesClinical Practice

• Provide evidence‑based psychotherapy (CBT, DBT, ACT, MBCT, TLDP, IPT, EFT, MI) to children, adolescents, and adults.
• Conduct assessments, develop treatment plans, and track outcomes using standardized measures (PHQ‑9, GAD‑7, session rating scales).
• Manage a caseload of 20–25 clients, billing for approximately 18 attended sessions weekly.
• Lead therapy groups as appropriate.
• Complete timely, accurate documentation in compliance with HIPAA, state regulations, and AATPC policies.
• Coordinate care with external providers and make referrals as needed.
• Work 1–2 evenings per week and one weekend day.

Animal Assisted Therapy

• Integrate therapeutic animal interactions into individual and family sessions.
• Mentor interns and staff in AAT practices.
• Perform animal care and closing tasks (30–60 minutes per shift), including feeding, watering, and stall maintenance.

Professional Standards & Development

• Maintain licensure and credentials in good standing with DORA.
• Participate in supervision, continuing education, and professional development.
• Attend at least one agency fundraising or community event annually.
• Model ethical practice, professionalism, and cultural competence.

Client Safety & Crisis Management

• Conduct risk assessments for suicide, self‑harm, and harm to others.
• Implement safety planning and emergency procedures when needed.
• Ensure safety of clients and animals during sessions.
• Refer clients to higher‑level care when appropriate.

Collaboration & Supervision

• Seek supervision for complex clinical or ethical issues.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members.
• Engage in reflective practice and ongoing skill development.

Qualifications Required

• Fully Licensed LMFT, LPCC or LCSW
• Master’s or PhD in a mental health–related field.
• Minimum 2 years of clinical experience.
• Minimum 1 year of experience in community mental health or similar setting.
• Minimum 1 year of experience in Animal Assisted Therapy or willingness to complete the AATPC Certificate Program within 6 months of hire.

Preferred

• Active, unrestricted license in good standing with DORA.
• Experience with child play therapy, adolescent therapy, and adult psychotherapy.
• Experience mentoring or supervising interns.
• Commitment to evidence‑based, outcome‑driven practice.

Compensation & Benefits

• Commission‑based pay: $45–$55 per billable clinical hour, depending on license and experience
• Free enrollment in the AATPC Certificate Program in Animal Assisted Psychotherapy
• Free attendance at the 3‑Day Intensive in Animal Assisted Therapy
• Free access to all AATPC training programs and materials
• Flexible scheduling
• High‑quality supervision and training

Our Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

AATPC is deeply committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable community for our clients, staff, interns, and animals. We welcome clinicians of all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences—including those who are BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, disabled, multilingual, or from historically marginalized communities. Diverse perspectives strengthen our clinical work and enrich the healing environment we create together.

AATPC is an equal opportunity employer.

How to Apply

Please send your resume and cover letter to Linda Chassman at lchassman@aatpc.org.

Pay: $45.00 - $55.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Flexible schedule

Application Question(s):

• Do you have a valid LMFT, LPC, LCSW, or PhD in Colorado? (Please do not apply if you are pre-licensed)

Experience:

• Child Play Therapy: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person