How the ESA evaluation works

  1. Free 10-minute consultation. We talk briefly about what you are looking for and whether an evaluation makes sense.

  2. Intake forms. You complete a short set of forms about your history, symptoms, and how your animal supports you.

  3. Virtual clinical evaluation. We meet by secure video for a full assessment of your mental health needs and the role your animal plays

  4. Clinical decision. If an ESA is clinically appropriate, I will prepare your letter. If not, I explain why and discuss other options.

  5. Your letter. You receive a signed letter on my professional letterhead, including my New York license information, typically within 2-3 business days

If you are already a therapy client of mine, we can often complete the evaluation as part of our ongoing work.

Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Letters in New York

Emotional Support Animal Letters from a Licensed New York Therapist

For many people, an animal is more than a pet. It is a steady source of comfort, calm, and connection that makes daily life with anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions more manageable. If your animal plays that role for you, an emotional support animal (ESA) letter may help you keep them with you at home.

I provide ESA evaluations and letters for adults throughout New York State. As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with over ten years of experience, I offer a thoughtful, genuine clinical assessment, not an instant online form. Evaluations are done virtually, so you can meet with me from anywhere in New York.

What is an ESA letter?

An ESA letter is a document from a licensed mental health professional stating that a person has a mental or emotional condition and that their animal provides support that helps with that condition. It is most commonly used to request reasonable accommodation for housing, such as living with your animal in a building that otherwise restricts pets.

An emotional support animal is different from a service animal. Service animals, typically dogs, are individually trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability. Emotional support animals do not need special training. Their support comes from their presence and companionship.

Who may qualify for an ESA letter

You may qualify if you live in New York State and have a mental or emotional health condition that significantly affects your daily life, and your animal helps ease its symptoms. Conditions that often come up in ESA evaluations include:

  • Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety and panic

  • Depression

  • Post-traumatic stress and trauma-related conditions

  • Other mental health conditions that limit daily functioning

Qualifying is not automatic. Whether a letter is appropriate depends on a genuine clinical assessment of your needs. If an ESA letter is not the right fit, I will tell you honestly and talk with you about other kinds of support.

Why a genuine evaluation from a licensed clinician matters

Many websites promise ESA letters in minutes, often after a short online quiz and no real conversation. Landlords and housing providers are increasingly familiar with these services and may question letters that come from them.

Working with a licensed New York clinician who conducts a real evaluation gives your request more credibility. My letters are based on an actual clinical assessment, include my license information so they can be verified, and reflect a professional judgment about your needs. Just as importantly, you are working with a therapist who understands mental health, not a form generator.

Cost and Timing

  • Evaluation and letter: $250

  • Timing: Letters are typically provided within 2-3business days] of your evaluation.

  • Renewals: Many landlords prefer a letter written within the past year. Renewals are available upon request

“I needed a an Emotional Support Animal Letter for my new apartment. The process was fast an easy with Amanda at MY AP Therapy. We met for a consultation, had a zoom meeting, and I had my letter the next day. I highly recommend her 10/10 service.”

-- J.W. Brooklyn, NY

“I get really anxious when flying and wanted to look into getting an Emotional Support Animal letter so my dog could travel with me. Amanda made the whole process seamless. She clearly explained everything that was needed, answered all my questions, and delivered my letter so quickly. Having my dog by my side has made a world of difference, and Amanda was wonderful to work with!"

-- M.P. Westchester, NY

Common Uses for ESA letters

Housing. Under the federal Fair Housing Act, people with a disability-related need may request a reasonable accommodation to live with an emotional support animal, even in housing with no-pet policies. An ESA letter is the documentation typically used to support that request.

Air travel. Since 2021, U.S. airlines are no longer required to accommodate emotional support animals in the cabin. Most airlines now treat them as regular pets.

Public places. Emotional support animals do not have the same public access rights as trainedservice animals, so an ESA letter does not grant access to restaurants, stores, or other public spaces.

**Please note: This page is for general information and is not legal advice. Housing rules and landlord requirements can vary, so check your specific situation.