Elephant-assisted occupational therapy sessions take place at the Thai Elephant Conservation Centre in Lampang, Thailand. For research purposes, sessions have been offered for 4 times a week for 3 weeks, and 2 times a week for 6 weeks. TETP also occasionally offers intensive 2-day workshops. Groups are small, with less than 12 participants in each group. Each participant works with an occupational therapy practitioner, mahout (elephant caregiver), and therapy-trained elephant. The topics covered depend on the type and length of course but may include:

• Background information about elephants including what they eat and how to approach them

• Meal planning for elephants including budgeting and buying food

• Feeding the elephants

•Bathing the elephants

•Riding the elephants

•Playing games - with elephants and in teams

•Arts and crafts

•Relaxation exercises

         In addition to these activities, time is set aside for participants to reflect on their experiences and reactions. In the spirit of mutual respect, they are also encouraged to consider how the elephants feel during these activities. This promotes the development of empathy, which is an important part of social awareness and communication.