Millions of Americans have pets that bring them joy and comfort. But did you know that many people rely on animals for support to manage physical or psychological symptoms, maintain optimal functioning, or to help assess potential danger?
What is an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letter?
Only a licensed professional in the mental health field can write a letter for you. Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letters are an official recommendation from a qualified, licensed mental health practitioner stating your need for an animal to assist you in your daily living. Therefore you must have a chronic mental illness that impairs or limits functioning in one or more life domains. The letter prepared for you will demonstrate that the ESA is therapeutically necessary to improve the impact of your disabling symptoms and reduce distress.
FAQ’s
Is an ESA for me?
For an animal to be legally recognized as an ESA, you must demonstrate a need for an emotional support animal to alleviate symptoms or improve overall functioning.
What animals qualify?
Please note that our ESA letters are for qualifying dogs or cats only. The type or breed of your cat or dog does not matter as long as your pet is not aggressive and is well-behaved. The assessment does not validate the safety or appropriateness of your animal in other settings. Additional charges apply to multiple animals.
Can you explain the process?
There are four steps to the process. The process can move smoothly and quickly.
Here is what you need to do.
STEP ONE: Contact us.
STEP TWO: Schedule an appointment.
STEP THREE: Meet with our clincal evaluator to conduct an assessment (with your animal).
STEP FOUR: If approved, our qualified clinical evaluator will conduct a thorough assessment, complete your accommodation documents OR provide a signed ESA letter with a recommendation for a support animal.
Is it in-person or virtual?
Our assessments are virtual. This means that you won’t have to travel to our office. We have experienced telehealth professionals who work via secured teleconferencing platforms for your convenience.
How long does it take?
The assessment may take anywhere from 60-90 minutes. New clients, may be required to have at least three (3) sessions to complete a thorough assessment. We will begin the letter writing process after the third session, or complete accommodation paperwork from a third party, whichever is required. Existing clients do not have a minimal session requirement.
How much does it cost?
To complete accommodation documents including letter for an Emotional Support Animal the cost is $150. This includes a clinical assessment and professional recommendation to the third party/requester.
When will I get the letter?
We require up to seven (7) business days to prepare and send your ESA letter. However, letters can be expedited under certain circumstances. $200 shall be paid for request for a 24-hour turnaround time. Insurance benefits are not billed for these services.
Does this guarentee my approaval?
We can not gurantee your application will be approved. The requesting party (employer, school, landlord, airline, etc) has the right to refuse/deny the recommendation. The ESA letter does not guarentee that any thrid party will accept or approve your request.
Do you work with people in my local area?
Currently, we can work with Georgia, Florida, Massachusetts, and Utah residents. You will be asked to verify your residency.
Do you know if the letters are renewed annually?
Yes, most employers, schools, and residential properties require annual renewal letters. Most likey, you may be required to undergo a reassessment annually to determine your current mental health status. Fees will apply for updated assessments and letters.
Do you offer refunds?
No, we do not offer refunds because of the nature of a clinical assessment.
What do I need to do to prepare for the evaluation?
Please ensure your pet is present during the entire assessment time. Before we meet, please upload a picture of your pet and indicate the name, age, sex, color and breed of your animal.
How do I get started?
Either request a consultation or an appointment here:
https://gena-golden.clientsecure.me/
I want to read/learn more
Please check out our blog called 'All About Emotional Support Animals'
https://innercoachhypnotherapy.com/all-about-emotional-support-animals