Emotional support animal template

 If you're looking to obtain documentation for an Emotional Support Animal (ESA), here’s a template for an ESA letter that a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) can use to confirm the need for the animal.

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[Clinic/Practice Name]  

[Address]  

[City, State, Zip Code]  

[Phone Number]  

[Date]

To Whom It May Concern,

I am a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) treating [Patient’s Full Name], who has been under my care since [Date]. After a thorough assessment of their mental and emotional health, I am writing to confirm that [Patient’s Full Name]meets the criteria for having an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) as part of their therapeutic care.

Patient’s Diagnosis  

[Patient’s Full Name] has been diagnosed with [General description of the patient’s condition, without revealing too much confidential information]. These conditions significantly affect their daily functioning and emotional well-being.

Need for Emotional Support Animal  

It is my professional opinion that the presence of [Animal’s Name], a [Type of Animal], is necessary for the ongoing management and alleviation of [Patient’s Full Name]'s symptoms. The ESA provides therapeutic benefits, including comfort, companionship, and emotional stability, which greatly enhance [Patient’s Name]'s ability to function day-to-day.

Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), [Patient’s Name] is entitled to reasonable accommodations for their ESA, allowing them to live with or travel with their animal despite any policies that may otherwise prohibit pets.

Contact Information  

If you require any additional information, please feel free to contact me at [Phone Number]or [Email Address].

Thank you for your understanding and support in this matter.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Credentials (e.g., Licensed Psychologist, LCSW, etc.)]

[License Number]

[State of Issuance]

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Important Notes:

- Only LMHP can write ESA letters (psychologists, therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists).

- The letter must be on official letter head.

- It should clearly state the patient’s need for the ESA due to a mental health condition.

  

Be sure to verify the letter meets the requirements for the housing or airline company where it will be submitted.