Deanna's Paws | ESA & Therapy Services

The Rise of Emotional Support Animals

Research shows a significant increase in the therapeutic use of animals for mental health support.

84%

Report Improved Mental Health

66%

Acquired ESA During Pandemic

18%

Of Pet Owners Have an ESA

72%

Of Americans Own Pets

Mental Health Impact

ESA Growth During Pandemic

Sources: American Psychiatric Association, ESA Pet Industry Data, 2024-2025 Research

What is an Emotional Support Animal?

An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) is more than just a pet. It is a companion animal that provides therapeutic benefit, such as alleviating or mitigating some symptoms of a mental or emotional disability.

Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require specialized training to perform tasks. Their presence alone provides comfort and support to individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other emotional challenges.

Provides comfort & companionship
Protected under Fair Housing Act
No breed or weight restrictions

Your Rights with an ESA

Housing Rights (Fair Housing Act)

Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), housing providers must provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with ESAs. This means:

You cannot be charged "pet fees" or "pet deposits".
Breed and weight restrictions generally do not apply.
You can live in "no-pets" housing.

Travel & Public Access

Note on Air Travel: As of 2021, airlines are no longer required to accept ESAs as service animals. They generally travel as pets in the cabin (fees apply) depending on the airline.

ESAs do not have the same public access rights as Service Dogs (e.g., they cannot go into restaurants or grocery stores unless the establishment is pet-friendly).

How to Get an ESA Letter

Our process is compliant, professional, and thorough. We ensure that an ESA is the right part of your therapeutic journey.

1

Initial Consultation

Schedule a session to discuss your mental health needs and determine if you qualify for an ESA diagnosis.

2

Assessment

A licensed professional will evaluate your emotional needs and the therapeutic benefits of an animal companion.

3

ESA Letter

If appropriate, you will receive a signed ESA letter on professional letterhead compliant with Florida laws.

Start the Process

Our Services

ESA Evaluations

Professional assessment for Emotional Support Animals, providing necessary documentation for housing.

Bereavement Therapy

Compassionate support for grief and loss, helping you navigate difficult emotional transitions.

Individual Therapy

One-on-one sessions tailored to your unique needs, focusing on anxiety, depression, and personal growth.

Child & Adolescent

Safe, supportive therapy for younger individuals facing developmental, social, or emotional hurdles.

Pricing & Process

We believe in transparent pricing and a straightforward process to get you the support you need.

Our Process

1

Pre-Screening

Fill out an online questionnaire about mental health history and need for an ESA.

2

Consultation

Connect with a licensed mental health professional for a tele-health evaluation.

3

Receive Letter

If approved, receive the official ESA letter via email and mail within days.

Investment

Renewal/Update

$99

Review of current status
Updated signed letter
Digital delivery

Get Started

Housing ESA Letter

$149

LMHP Evaluation
Official Housing Letter
Landlord Support
100% Refund if not approved

Get Started

PSD Travel Letter

$189

In-depth assessment
PSD Letter for Airlines
DOT Form Guidance

Get Started

Furry Friends Showcase

Meet some of the lovely companions who bring joy to our lives.

Barnaby

Chief Snuggler

Luna

Purr Therapist

Cooper

Ball Specialist

Max

Chief Cuddler

For Landlords & Property Managers

We understand the concerns property managers have regarding animals. Our ESA letters are written by licensed mental health professionals in strict accordance with Florida law.

We verify the client's disability-related need for an assistance animal. We do not sell "registrations" or certificates online; we provide legitimate healthcare documentation.

Verify a Letter

Client Stories

"Deanne was incredibly understanding and helped me navigate my anxiety. My ESA letter allowed me to keep my cat, who is my lifeline."

Sarah M.
& Whiskers

"Professional, kind, and legitimate. Unlike online scam sites, this is real therapy with a real person who cares."

James R.
& Buster

"I highly recommend Deanne for bereavement therapy. Her warm approach made a difficult time manageable."

Emily K.
Therapy Client

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to register my ESA online?

No! There is no official government registry for ESAs. Websites selling "registrations", ID cards, or vests are generally scams and are not legally recognized by landlords. The only legal document you need is an ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional.

Can any pet be an ESA?

Yes, dogs and cats are most common, but other domestic animals can serve as ESAs. The key is the bond and the comfort they provide to mitigate your disability.

Does insurance cover the consultation?

Coverage varies by plan. Please contact us directly with your insurance information so we can verify benefits before your appointment.

Is the letter valid in all states?

We are licensed in Florida. While federal housing laws apply nationally, landlords in other states generally require a letter from a provider licensed in that state or one who has a relationship with you. We primarily serve Florida residents.

Ready to Schedule?

Take the first step towards emotional wellness today.

Covington Professional Park, 13692 West Hillsboro Avenue, Tampa, Florida 33635

305-308-7228

psychotherapy.d@outlook.com

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