Our Team
AJ Cullen Langell
AJ Cullen Langell, is a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW), Certified Animal Assisted Intervention Specialist (C-AAIS), and a proud member of several professional associations including the Association of Animal Assisted Intervention Professionals, International Association of Veterinary Social Workers, and the International Society of Anthrozoology. AJ is a compassionate and dedicated professional who has made a significant impact in the field of social work. AJ earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Florida Gulf Coast University and her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Boston University. With a strong passion for working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum, AJ has been implementing Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAI) in her practice since 2010. Recognizing the unique benefits that animals bring to therapy, AJ has witnessed firsthand the positive effects they have on individuals' well-being and emotional growth.
Lola the Labrador
Meet Lola, a remarkable black Labrador who brings comfort, love, and support to individuals with Autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. Lola is a trained therapy dog and a designated AKC Canine Good Citizen.
Lola has a natural ability to connect with people, especially those facing unique challenges. She possesses a special bond and understanding that allows her to provide a sense of calm and reassurance to those she interacts with. Lola's presence brings joy and positivity to the lives of the individuals she works with.
More about AJ:
AJ's personal connection to Autism extends beyond her professional endeavors. With a family member on the Autism Spectrum, AJ has firsthand experience with the unique challenges and joys that individuals with autism and their families face. Motivated by her personal journey, AJ has been actively involved in the Autism Community since 2006.
An avid dog lover, AJ's passion for animals transcends her work with therapy dogs. Starting in 2008, AJ began working with her late therapy dog, Cinderella "Ella," who served as both a therapy dog and AJ's own emotional support animal. Together, they volunteered in group homes, skilled nursing facilities, and special education classrooms, providing comfort, companionship, and support to those in need. In 2018, Ella unexpectedly passed away. Her legacy of compassion and healing lives on in AJ’s self-published children’s book, Ella: A Dog with a Job.
Following Ella’s passing, AJ welcomed Lola, a black Labrador, into her life. Following in Ella's pawprints, Lola continues to bring joy and comfort to those AJ works with, further reinforcing the power of the human-animal bond in promoting well-being and emotional resilience.
AJ Cullen Langell's unwavering dedication, professional expertise, and genuine love for animals have made her a valuable asset to the field of social work, particularly in supporting individuals on the Autism Spectrum. Her commitment to serving the community, combined with her extensive experience and personal connection, has shaped her into a compassionate advocate for those in need, leaving a lasting impact on individuals' lives.
