To get an emotional support animal (ESA), the main step is to obtain an official ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional. Here is the typical process:
- Determine if you qualify : You need a diagnosed mental or emotional condition, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or similar, where an ESA would provide support and relief from symptoms.
- Consult a licensed mental health professional : This could be a therapist, psychiatrist, or licensed counselor. If you do not already have a therapist, you can connect with one through online services that specialize in ESA letters.
- Get an ESA letter : The professional will evaluate your mental health and, if your condition warrants it, provide a signed ESA letter. This letter states that the ESA is essential for your mental health and is necessary for your well-being.
- Use the ESA letter for housing and travel : The letter allows you to have your ESA live with you in housing that otherwise prohibits pets and may allow your ESA to accompany you on flights without extra fees.
Additional notes:
- ESAs do not require special training like service animals but should be well-behaved.
- Any pet can be an ESA, with dogs and cats being most common.
- There is no official registration or certification beyond the ESA letter by a licensed mental health professional.
Some services can assist with online assessments and connecting with licensed therapists to get an ESA letter quickly and legally within 24-48 hours. The ESA letter needs to be renewed annually. This process ensures legal protection under laws like the Fair Housing Act for having an ESA. If already owning a pet that helps your emotional condition, you may get it prescribed as your ESA after this evaluation. This summary is based on information from several expert and official sources on how to get an ESA.
