What is an ESA?

An ESA, or Emotional Support Animal, is a companion of the animal variety that offers a benefit to an individual experiencing the symptoms of a disability. Dogs are the most common forms of an ESA, however, cats and miniature horses have also served as companions.

What are the benefits of an ESA?

As part of the Holistic Wellness approach used at the Oasis Center, an ESA is intended to be a positive influence on your mental health. It can offer an added benefit to work with a therapist, medication, or other resource that helps relieve symptoms of physical and/or mental challenges. 

Additionally, under federal housing rules, emotional support animals are not regarded as “pets”  they have certain rights that regular house pets aren’t given. ESAs are also afforded housing benefits. Tenants with emotional support animals do not need to pay any fees or deposits in connection with their ESA. Landlords cannot restrict an ESA solely because it is a certain breed or weight. 

What laws protect my ESA?

The U.S. Department of Housing creates guidelines with respect to ESAs under the Fair Housing Act. These rules prohibit discrimination of individuals with symptoms of a mental or emotional disability who also have an emotional support animal. There are also various State laws that protect ESAs. 

What is the difference between an ESA and a Service Animal?

While they are similar in some areas, they differ in other ways. An ESA is intended to provide companionship and support. A service animal assists with disabilities by performing specific tasks, they are also trained in the performance of said task. Disabilities that a service animal may be tasked with supporting include physical, intellectual, sensory, psychiatric, or psychological in nature. Task examples include pushing an elevator door or applying pressure during a panic attack.

Who qualifies for an ESA?

To qualify for an ESA companion, an individual must be assessed by a qualified licensed professional such as a therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist. This professional will then render a diagnosis that results in a recommendation letter.

What if I’m not currently seeing a qualified licensed professional?

The Oasis Center is currently operating remotely using a telehealth platform. This allows you to virtually access a licensed therapist that can support you with qualification and respond to identified mental health needs.

What does a valid ESA letter contain?

A qualified licensed professional’s:

• Letterhead and Signature

• License type

• The date the license was issued

• License number

• State that issued the license

• Confirmation that an emotional support animal is a vital part of your life 

• Formal recommendation for an ESA

• Details about your pet (type, breed, name, etc.)

What is the process to qualify?

The process is as simple as: Assessment> Review> Results 

• Assessment: Fill out a simple questionnaire that helps your mental health professional understand your needs and experiences.

• Review: A licensed therapist will review your assessment in 24-48 hours. If you qualify, payment will be approved and you will be notified.

• Results: Approval and delivery! Your signed ESA Letter is sent to you either by email or by the U.S. Postal Service (plus S&H costs).

How long is the letter valid?

Individual ESA documentation is valid for a period of one year from date of issuance. For renewals of your ESA Letter, verification of ongoing symptoms indicating clinical necessity of ESA support is required.