Jayme Frihart LCSW CCTP RYT

I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California. I hold a master's degree in social work (MSW). I am also a certified clinical trauma professional, and I am trained in yoga. My experience has spanned through community mental health clinics, residential treatment, crisis case management, outpatient care, and hospitals. My expertise is on the inclusion of animals into therapeutic practices. My focus areas are on working with individuals experiencing:

substance use disorders, as well as those focusing on harm reduction practices.
grief and loss (including animal loss)
depression
anxiety
I also appreciate working with all helping professionals* on moral distress, vicarious trauma, and burnout.

I believe that healing comes in many forms, and I use a holistic, human centered approach. I often draw on modalities of:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Polyvagal theory

Special Trainings I have taken:

Equine Assisted Mental Health Practioner Training through the University of Denver: Institute for Human Animal-Connection. 2021-2022
Veterinary Social Work Certificate through the University of Tennessee: Veterinary Social Work Program. 2022-Current
Canine Assisted Interventions Competency Training through the University of Denver: Institute for Human Animal-Connection. 2023-2024
200 hour yoga teaching (RYT) certification through Stanford's Yoga X program. 2024
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)

*it is my belief that helping professionals come in various forms, so this includes: health care workers, environmentalists, activists, veterinarians (animal workers), teachers, librarians, and anyone else who finds their mission in life is to leave the earth better than they found it.

Who I Am

Hi, I'm Jayme! After working for several years in county systems of care, and advocating for my clients, I am passionate about connecting with others who are struggling to feel heard or seen. I grew up in the Midwest, and have always enjoyed the company of a wide variety of animals. Once I started working in the mental health care field, I witnessed first-hand the healing power of when humans share space with beloved pets. Unfortunately, the inclusion of animals into our health care practices has not always been in ways that take into consideration the well-being of the animal. To prevent harm to both my clients, and animals, I have taken extensive training on the inclusion of animals into therapy. I understand that this type of technique is not for everyone, and so I also offer psychotherapy without the inclusion of animals as well. I believe therapy should be be unique and tailored for each individual.

I understand how mental health and substance use disorders can carry stigma and a unique burden on systems. Our country does not have easy access to mental health services, and with the opioid crisis reaching a peak in the past few years, finding treatment at the right time can be a life or death matter. If I am not a good fit for your needs, I am happy to offer some resources to get you in the right direction.

I stand as an ally to LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people of the global majority.

When I am not practicing therapy, I enjoy spending time with my loved ones (four legged animals included), cooking, hiking, adventuring around, and creative endeavors. I am an avid crafter, although not very good at it, I find it extremely rewarding.

Meet the Team

Creature Comforts Therapy is comprised of the following team members. Learn more about Jayme Frihart here.

Therapist & Owner of Creature Comforts Therapy

Jayme Frihart

Click here for more information

Support Team Member

Lucy

Lucy is a 13 year old Staffordshire Mix (also known as a 'pitbull' mix). She joined our family in 2010 as a rescue from the SPCA. She enjoys snacks, naps, and pets from human friends. Lucy has made it clear that being a therapy dog is not her thing, but she'll sometimes join virtual sessions to say "hello".

Support Team Member

Mr. Blue Skye aka Blue Man

Mr. Blue Skye is a 3 year old Blue Heeler mix. He joined our family in 2021, and was adopted from Colorado. He enjoys herding things, attention from dog friends, and joining therapy sessions. He is in training currently to be a therapy dog, although sometimes he communicates that he'd rather just chill, and that's okay too. He is a certified canine good citizen by Berkeley Humane.

Support Team Member

Tintin

Tintin is a 7 year old Arabian gelding. He joined our family in 2024. He enjoys hanging out with his herd of horse friends, scratches, and carrots. Similar to Blue, Tintin can join therapy sessions for psychotherapy with the inclusion of equines. What exactly is psychotherapy with the inclusion of equines? Click here to learn more.