Snake Therapy has had profound impacts on people with ADHD, Autism, OCD, Sensory Processing Disorder and other Neurodivergent conditions.

Many neurodivergent people feel a kinship and comfort with snakes beyond what they experience with mammalian pets, and even other humans!

  • Neurodiversity is the concept that there is natural variation in how people’s brains work. There are a wide range of ways that people perceive and respond to the world around them, and there is no “right” or “correct” way.

  • Neurodivergence encompasses a wide range of neurological conditions such as ADHD, Autism, and various learning or sensory processing disorders. Individuals with neurodivergent brains may think, learn and perceive the world in unusual ways. This doesn’t make them any better or worse, they’re just DIFFERENT.

  • Interacting with snakes has been shown to support:

    • Cognitive Function

    • Behavioral Regulation

    • Identity and Confidence Building

    • Sensory Processing

    • Emotional Regulation

    • Coping Mechanisms

    • Communication/Social Connection

Watch the Webinar on Reptiles and Neurodiversity

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Many Benefits of Snake Therapy are Universal.

However, Shira’s study on the connection between neurodiversity and reptiles has revealed that certain effects are particularly therapeutic for those with neurodivergent brains.

After surveying a large group of Neurodivergent Reptile Keepers, the results were clear:

  • Snakes calmed their nerves and soothed their anxiety

  • Caring for snakes provided a positive outlet for hyper focus, special interest and cognitive development

  • Since many neurodivergent people feel a sense of Otherness from society, they felt a strong kinship with snakes, who are also seen as weird or different.

  • Being with snakes helped them to focus and be present in the moment when that would otherwise be a challenge.

  • Even though some neurodivergent people are averse to touch from other human beings, the physical sensation of handling snakes and the gentle hugs they give as they move act as a form of deep pressure stimulation that can be extremely comforting. Holding snakes can also act as a positive outlet for stimming.

  • Social interactions and community can be hard for some neurodivergent people, but a shared common interest of snakes/reptiles can encourage social behavior and communication, and make them feel more connected to other humans as well as the animals themselves.

But you don’t have to take MY word for it…