Pawsitive Connections

Supporting Children & Young People Through the Power of Dogs

Professional Occupational Therapy and Mental Health support for young people — delivered by qualified clinicians alongside our therapy dogs.

How We Can Help

We offer specialist support for young people who may struggle in traditional education environments — combining clinical expertise with the unique power of dog-assisted intervention.

Occupational Therapy session

Occupational Therapy

Led by Lucy Dane, our OT sessions support young people to develop confidence, independence and participation in meaningful activities that support wellbeing and daily life.

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Mental health support with therapy dog

Mental Health Support

Led by Katie McIlroy, our mental health sessions bring expertise in emotional wellbeing, therapeutic communication and SEMH support — in a safe, non-judgemental space.

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Pawsitive Connections team in branded t-shirts with Inca

Meet Lucy & Katie

Lucy Dane (Occupational Therapist) and Katie McIlroy (Mental Health Nurse) combine their clinical expertise to support young people experiencing Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) challenges. Together, they created Pawsitive Connections to reach young people that traditional approaches don't always serve.

Our Story
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@pawsitiveconnections2025

Follow Our Journey

See our therapy dogs in action, celebrate the young people we work with, and stay connected with the Pawsitive Connections community on Instagram.

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The Dogs May Open the Door — Our Expertise Creates Lasting Change

Whether you are a school, alternative provision, parent or carer, we would love to talk about how Pawsitive Connections can support your young people.

Pawsitive Connections

Occupational Therapy and Mental Health support with the healing power of therapy dogs.

Based in Essex

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@pawsitiveconnections

Follow our journey on Instagram to see our therapy dogs in action and stay up to date with our latest news.

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