Welcome!
About Renata
Education
PhD in Child & Youth Studies at Brock University.
Expertise
Over 15 years of experience as a psychologist.
Qualification
Psychotherapist in Training in Ontario.
Renata Roma is a researcher, and a mental health professional. With a PhD in Child and Youth Studies at Brock University and over 15 years of experience as a psychologist in Brazil, Renata has worked with children, youth, adults and families facing a variety of psychological issues. She has been researching aspects of the human-animal relationship for over 10 years and is training to become a registered psychotherapist in Ontario through the BREM program. As an advocate of person-centred therapy, she believes that true connection – based on compassion and respect – is key to support clients throughout their journey. In this space she shares insights from her professional and academic experience and the knowledge she has gained along the way.
Have a Look at Our
Publications & Education
01.
Journal Articles
On this page, I share a list of my academic articles on mental health, child development, and human-animal interactions. My research explores how animal-assisted services, particularly with dogs, can support people’s well-being. The articles cover topics such as young people’s perceptions of challenges in the relationship shared with their dogs, strategies to support people’s well-being, empathy and compassion, and different aspects of people’s relationships with animals. These studies reflect my ongoing effort to understand how the relationship with animals can support people’s mental health.
02.
Media Articles
On this page, I talk about media articles that aim to discuss some insights based on my research. In 2023, I wrote an article for The Conversation titled “For better or worse, your dog’s behaviours can impact your quality of life,” discussing the impact of challenging dog behaviors on our well-being. In 2024, I co-authored another article, “Studying violence toward women and animals can help us develop strategies to prevent both,” which explores the connections between violence toward women and animals and suggests ways to develop prevention strategies for both. These articles reflect my commitment to using research to address pressing societal issues and enhance public understanding.
03.
Conferences and Symposiums
This page highlights my conference presentations on the human-animal relationship and its impact on well-being, particularly among young populations. My work includes studies on how dog walking supported mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. These presentations showcase my dedication to exploring the therapeutic role of animals in emotional and psychological development, as well as my understanding that addressing mental health and well-being requires a holistic approach.
04.
Media
On this page, I share my media appearances. You will find interviews and articles on topics like the impact of the human-animal relationship on people’s mental health and well-being, the impact of personality factors on interactions between people and their dogs, and how young people manage their relationships with their dogs when they misbehave. These media contributions reflect my commitment to sharing my findings with the public and exploring the powerful connection between people and animals.
Blog
How Yoga Can Help Kids Manage Anxiety: What Research Says
A year ago, I began practicing yoga and noticed surprising improvements in my and stress management. I’m not sure if it’s all thanks to yoga, but I believe it’s possible….
Children’s Development and Emotional Regulation – The Role of Caregivers and Pets
Emotional regulation is a fundamental skill that shapes how people navigate challenges, build relationships, and thrive in their daily lives. For children, this process begins early, with caregivers playing a…
Parenting Strategies to Help Children Manage Anxiety: A Research-Based Guide
When it comes to helping children navigate the challenges of anxiety, caregivers play a key role. For example, the way caregivers feel about their children, their protective feelings, and their…