Costa News Spain Breaking News | English News in Spain.
Sea lions are now providing therapy for vulnerable children and youths as part of a SPECIAL Benidorm initiative.
Aqua Natura Benidorm’s project was launched in the year 2024 and has benefited more than 30 individuals. Petra Dussealions and Roland Dussealions are the two sea lion trainers who came up with the idea.
Through guided stays at the park, it helps children and teenagers with complex personal histories develop social and emotional skills in a safe environment.
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After a first successful year, the therapy will be continued with links formed between the German youth groups and the park.
Leona, a 15-year-old girl who spent six weeks in Aqua Natura Benidorm.
Angelica Rickman is a youth interventionist who works closely alongside the park’s team.
Petra Dussealions commented: “Working alongside sea lions as part of a therapeutic program is a life-changing experience, for both young people and adults.”
“Animals can connect with people who are in the most need,” she said.
It is exciting to see how children, like Leona who come from a challenging background, are able to trust, relax and have moments of joy and calm with the sea lions. This gives our work meaning.
This project is now spreading locally, not only to young Germans but also to locals thanks to the involvement by the ArcoIris Foundation.
Both groups support people with disabilities as well as autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Sea lion assisted therapies provide visitors with a structured, respectful and safe environment to improve their cognitive, emotional, and social skills.
The Olive Press has more Benidorm News. Click here to read it.
