91´óÉñ

Avery White, BSW’25, is combining her passion for animals with social work through the Veterinary Therapy Social Work certificate at the University of Tennessee. 

 

The Certificate Program— an opportunity for students enrolled in the Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW)—trains students in the four areas of Veterinary Social Work: the link between human and animal violence, grief and loss, animal-assisted interactions, and compassion fatigue management. The program offers a comprehensive foundation in veterinary social work topics, focusing on the knowledge and skills needed to integrate animals into social work practice. 

 

“The MSSW clinical concentration stream was something that drew me immediately to the University of Tennessee, and discovering the Veterinary Social Work certificate played a big part in my decision,” said White. 

 

“My time at STU gave me the confidence I needed to apply to grad school and move to a different country to pursue my Master's.”  

 

White is currently completing her social work placement at a therapeutic preschool for children who have experienced significant trauma—something her time in the Bachelor of Social Work program at STU helped prepare her for 

 

“The STU program covers important theoretical concepts that are trauma-informed, addresses intersectionality, and considers culture and spirituality. I found these concepts and theories very helpful in preparing me for my future in social work,” she said.  

 

Originally from Fredericton, White has always been passionate about social issues and advocacy, which motivated her to apply to the Bachelor of Social Work program at STU.  

 

“Having a small cohort allowed us to build a bond as a class. I made friends in the program that I can always turn to for support, and I am extremely grateful for that. The professors were approachable, willing to answer questions, and made time for students, which fostered a positive learning environment,” said White.

 

“I am very proud to have earned my BSW from STU.”  

Next year, White will be completing her concentration placement at the University of Tennessee’s Veterinary Animal Hospital as part of the Veterinary Social Work certificate.  

 

“I find this to be such a niche area of social work that is beginning to gain more attention. Supporting those experiencing pet loss is extremely important, animal-assisted interventions can significantly help individuals, and supporting vets is a dire need,” she said.  

 

“It is a developing area of social work that is very interesting, and I'm excited to see this area grow and what the future may hold for me in relation to veterinary social work therapy.”