About Pathway Counseling

Originally from Heyburn, Idaho, Nala is an F1B Irish Doodle meaning she is a hybrid between an Irish Setter and a Poodle (75% Poodle and 25% Irish Setter). Her name means "gift, queen, successful lady, and lion," all of which describe her beautifully. Due to her breeding Nala will not shed and is considered hypoallergenic due to her hair quality. Nala is sweet, has an amazing personality, temperament and is working toward her therapy dog certification.  She loves to play with her pig and squeaky ball. Nala also enjoys pets, snuggles and LOTS of attention. Nala has completed the majority of her training but does often require a gentle reminder to mind her manners.  She is registered as a Service Dog through the US Service Animal Registry and is now a Registered Therapy Pet through Pet Partners. Nala takes requests to make appearances all over town and facilities to bring enjoyment and comfort to those she visits. Nala has learned many cool tricks that I'm sure she would be happy to show you if you would like.  She is regularly utilized by her handler, Tandice Peterson, LCPC in therapy sessions to aid in helping individuals feel calm, safe and grounded during sessions. Nala does amazing work in helping others feel grounded as well as recognizing emotions of others or situations. She will communicate these signals to the individuals in the room through a variety of signs. I work regularly at reading her behaviors in order to increase effectiveness of therapy. One of her favorite uses for her skills is working in attachment and bonding as well as a variety of other diagnoses and concerns. Nala brings a level of entertainment to session that does not compare!  

Originally from Wendell, Idaho, Missy is an F1 Golden Doodle meaning she is a hybrid between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle (50% Poodle and 50% Retriever).  She and Nala are half sisters and have the same mom. Due to her breeding Missy will not shed and is considered hypoallergenic due to her hair quality. Missy is a highly intelligent, sweet little girl.  She loves to play and will often bring you her favorite toy to fetch. Missy, like Nala, enjoys pets, snuggles and LOTS of attention. Missy is just beginning her training endeavors and no doubt she will rock it!  She is working toward her Service Dog and Therapy Dog certifications. Missy has learned some tricks that I'm sure she would be happy to show you if you would like.  She is regularly utilized by her handler, Tandice Peterson, LCPC in therapy sessions to aid in helping individuals feel calm, safe and grounded during sessions. I work regularly at reading her behaviors in order to increase effectiveness of therapy. One of her favorite uses for her skills is working in attachment and bonding as well as a variety of other diagnoses and concerns. Missy is excited to learn the ropes like her big sister Nala and eventually participate in agility and rally courses.  Missy brings a whole new sense of adventure to Pathway Counseling!

Originally from Caldwell, Idaho, Kaida is a Bearded Dragon. Due to her breed Kaida is considered hypoallergenic. Her name means "Little Dragon" which is absolutely fitting. Kaida is such a sweetheart and cuddle bug and she will not breathe fire! Bearded Dragons are known for their calm and relaxing demeanors which makes them excellent in a therapy setting. Now she recognizes that she is a reptile and many may be skittish of this but she is here to change that! She is regularly utilized by her handler, Tandice Peterson, LCPC in therapy sessions to aid in helping individuals feel calm, safe and grounded during sessions much in the same was as Nala her new best friend. Kaida will communicate her feelings in the outward expression of trying to flee if she feels threatened or unsafe; likewise she will remain calm and sit with you for hours if she feels safe.  Kaida is proving to have quite the personality that her handler and counterpart find to be amusing and a beneficial addition to the therapeutic environment!

Originally from Pocatello, Idaho, Crush and Squirt are about 6month old Tustado Tortoises. They are a bonded pair and we could not imagine splitting them up!! They both love collard greens among occasional fruits and other veggies as treats and LOVE their water.  Crush, the bigger baby, adores his food and you will often find him napping close by. Squirt loves his hidey and is often relaxing and taking long naps. The pair teaches individuals how to be gentle, what it takes to take care of something small and dependent on adults and is just a sweetheart. Crush and Squirt add a new element to the therapeutic environment and is a great ice breaker! He is also a unique addition to Pathway Counseling and everyone is excited to see and learn about his personality.