Jennifer Celli

Professor of Animal Assisted Therapy

Professor Celli is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist working with children, adolescents, and their families since 2000. She specializes in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) providing evidence-based treatment for suicidal/self-injurious children, adolescents, young adults and their families. In addition, she has worked in a variety of clinical settings, including work with sexual abuse survivors in a residential treatment facility providing psychotherapy and psycho-education for both clients and support staff.

Jennifer has been intensively trained in Animal Assisted Therapy. This process is used to influence clients as the animals soothe to bring a loving and non-judgmental presence, often breaking down barriers that isolate clients whom experience physical and emotional difficulties. Jennifer and Matilda, her English mastiff co-therapist, are certified in Animal Assisted Therapy through Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs. In addition, Jennifer and Matilda have recently been certified for Animal Assisted Play Therapy through the International Institute for Animal Assisted Play Therapy developed by Dr. Rise VanFleet and Tracie Faa-Thompson.

Professor Celli is also certified as a Mental Health Professional through EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association) and has had comprehensive training and certification in the EAGALA model. She plans to develop a non-profit organization providing Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Equine Assisted Learning in the Bucks County area of Pennsylvania.

Education:
BA in Psychology, Stockton University
Graduate Concentration in Child Psychotherapy & Play Therapy, Monmouth University