ABOUT BLUE DOG COUNSELING
Support for the Human Side of Animal Care
The bond between humans and animals is often one of the most significant connections in life. However, the grief, stress, and difficult decisions associated with that bond are frequently misunderstood or minimized by society.
At Blue Dog Counseling, we bridge the gap between mental health and animal welfare.
We provide a space where the people behind the animals are truly understood. Whether you are an individual grieving a loss, a veterinary leader looking for practical support for your team, or a clinician seeking to better support your clients, we offer the specific expertise you need.
Cōlleen O'Brien, LMSW, CFSW
Cōlleen founded Blue Dog Counseling to address a critical need: the lack of specialized support for those who care for animals. She recognized that standard mental health models often overlook the depth of the human-animal bond and the unique pressures faced by veterinary and animal welfare professionals.
Her work is dedicated to ensuring that caregivers—both professional and individual—have a place where their experience is understood, honored, and supported.
MEET THE FOUNDER
OUR PHILOSOPHY
We Get It You don’t have to explain the depth of your attachment to an animal here. We already understand it.
We Are Evidence-Based Our consulting, training, and supervision are grounded in clinical best practices, ensuring professional and effective support.
We Support the Whole Practice From the individuals with animal family members to the veterinary staff and zookeepers, we believe that caring for animals requires caring for the people who look after them.