Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Letters
An ESA letter allows individuals to access certain accommodations to ensure that they can receive the support they need from their companion animals.
This service may be provided upon request for established clients, or those who have attended three or more sessions with our provider.
What is an Emotional Support Animal?
Emotional Support Animals can offer meaningful comfort, companionship, and stability to individuals navigating mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Unlike service animals, ESAs are not trained to perform specific tasks. Rather, their presence alone can provide a calming and grounding influence in daily life.
To qualify for an ESA, a letter of recommendation from a licensed mental health professional is required. While ESAs don’t have the same legal access as service animals, a valid ESA letter may help individuals receive accommodations in housing or during travel. It’s also important that an ESA is well-behaved, safe, and does not cause disruptions at home or in shared spaces, to ensure their presence continues to offer support in a respectful and sustainable way.
Note: Only cats, dogs, and small animals will be considered for ESA recommendations at LuxeMind.
What is an ESA Letter?
An ESA letter—sometimes called a prescription or recommendation letter—is a formal document provided by a licensed mental health professional. It confirms that an individual is experiencing a mental or emotional health condition and that the presence of an Emotional Support Animal is an important part of their overall care and well-being.
The letter explains the therapeutic need for an ESA, as well the name and type of animal being recommended or prescribed. While Emotional Support Animals don’t have the same public access rights as service animals, an ESA letter may help secure accommodations in housing or certain travel situations, depending on the specific laws and policies in place.
Who is eligible for an ESA Letter?
At LuxeMind, ESA Letters are considered upon request for established clients, or those who have attended 3 or more counseling sessions with our provider. Additionally, exotic animals such as reptiles, arachnids, and aquatic pets are not eligible for ESA prescription.
These requirements are in place to ensure that our provider is able to accurately identify the client's need for the ESA, as well as to determine and accurately describe the prescribed animal's emotionally supportive role in the client's life.
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