My Dog, My Mirror
The Human-Dog Bond: A Therapeutic Experience
Dogs often perceive things in us that escape our own awareness: a tension, a sadness, a hesitation. Sensitive to what we communicate beyond words, they frequently respond to what is happening within us.
I invite you to take part in an experiential psychotherapy group in which the dog becomes both a companion and a mirror. What unfolds through this relationship can open a path toward greater self-awareness.
This is neither dog training nor animal-assisted therapy. The work is grounded in what naturally emerges through contact with the dog.
Throughout the programme, we welcome whatever arises: trust, attachment, the need for control, the ability to set boundaries, feelings of safety, letting go, playfulness, and our way of relating to others and to the living world. We also explore the separations, changes, and transitions that accompany any meaningful attachment.
Why Speak of a Mirror
The term “mirror” refers here to what our interactions with our four-legged companions may reveal about our emotions, attitudes, and relational patterns. Attention is given to the feelings, reactions, and shifts that emerge within the relationship between you and your dog.
Dogs do not analyse us. They simply respond to what is present. It is often through this simplicity that we discover ourselves in new ways.
This journey offers the time and space to observe without judgement, deepen your awareness of yourself and others, become more attuned to what unfolds in the encounter, and reconnect with a more vibrant sense of yourself.
Who Is This Group For
This group is open to anyone who values the relationship with their dog and with animals more generally, wishes to deepen their self-understanding through direct experience, and is curious about what this bond may reveal.
No previous experience or special skills are required.
How the Workshops Unfold
Each workshop combines walking, guided explorations, observation of the human-dog relationship, and opportunities for group sharing. Depending on the needs of the group, writing or creative activities may also support the process.
The situations that arise become opportunities to observe what emerges: emotions, bodily responses, relational habits, resistances, and resources. The dog participates through its presence and natural responses.
The Well-being of the Dogs and Group Guidelines
The well-being of the dogs remains a constant priority. No exercise is imposed upon them, and their individual rhythms are respected.
Dogs remain on lead throughout the workshops. They must be identified, up to date with vaccinations, and able to participate comfortably in a group setting. Each participant is responsible for their dog at all times. Please do not bring toys, balls, or any items that may cause tension between the dogs.
If your dog experiences significant anxiety or displays aggressive behaviour, please let me know before registering so that we can assess together whether this setting is appropriate.
Practical Information
Workshop dates :
- 26 September 2026
- 24 October 2026
- 21 November 2026
- 19 December 2026
- 16 January 2027
- 13 February 2027
- 20 March 2027
- 17 April 2027
- 22 May 2027
- 19 June 2027
- Time: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, including a short break
- Group size: 5 to 6 participants
- A trainee psychotherapist will attend the workshops as an observer.
- Location: Outdoors whenever possible, or at my practice: 176 Avenue du Prado, 13008.
- The meeting place will be confirmed before each workshop.
- Fee: €110 per session. Payments are requested at the beginning of the programme and processed progressively throughout the year. Fees are non-refundable.
- Commitment to the full programme is required in order to preserve the continuity of the work.
A preliminary meeting is offered before registration to ensure that the programme meets your expectations and is suitable for your dog.
Please Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Something comfortable to sit on outdoors (picnic blanket, or similar)
- Water for yourself and your dog
- A light snack for the break
- Something to write with
- Please do not bring toys, balls, or other objects that may create tension between the dogs.
Monica Levert
For more than twenty-five years, I have accompanied people in their personal and professional journeys. Holder of the ACACED certification (dogs and cats) and trained in EMDR with animals, I have long been interested in what animals can reveal about our relationship with ourselves and the world around us. I am also the author of When Dogs Grieve: How to Help Your Dog After Loss, a book exploring loss, grief, and attachment in dogs.
Registration deadline: 1 September 2026