Emotional Support Animals (ESA) provide emotional assistance to their handlers and may qualify as an ESA. Any domesticated animal of any age may qualify as an ESA and, unlike service dogs, these animals do not need any specific task training. This is because their very presence reduces the symptoms associated with a person’s psychological or emotional disability.

For a person to legally qualify for an Emotional Support Animal, they must be considered emotionally disabled by a licensed mental health professional. This means the person must meet the criteria for a diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5 (DSM 5).

What to Expect for the Evaluation:

• The evaluation consists of an online assessment as a general measure of disability and function; a clinical interview; and a final session to review your results and receive general ESA psychoeducation on ESA laws, rights, and responsibilities.

  • Your evaluating clinician will look into the impact that your disability has on day-to-day functioning. They will ask questions about how your disability affects you to determine if an emotional support animal could help alleviate symptoms.

    Additionally, they’ll want to ensure that you are capable of caring for the animal.

When to Expect Your ESA Letter:

• If you meet the need for an emotional support animal, you will receive your letter by email within 48 business hours of your evaluation.

  • Note: If you do not meet the criteria for an ESA, refunds will not be issued.