An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) can provide invaluable comfort and companionship to individuals struggling with mental or emotional disabilities. A legitimate ESA letter, issued by a licensed mental health professional (LMHP), is essential for legally recognizing your animal’s status and affording you certain rights, such as residing with your ESA in housing that typically prohibits pets. This letter confirms your need for the animal’s support and outlines the diagnosed emotional or mental health condition.
Navigating the process of obtaining an ESA letter can be confusing. This article provides 23 sample letters to illustrate the key elements and language typically found in a valid ESA letter. These examples are for informational purposes only and should not be used as templates. Always consult with a qualified LMHP for a proper evaluation and personalized ESA letter. A legitimate letter includes the LMHP’s license information, contact details, and a clear statement that you have a qualifying disability and require an ESA for therapeutic support. These samples demonstrate how professionals articulate the client’s need in various circumstances.
23 Emotional Support Animal Letter Samples
Sample 1: General Anxiety
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to confirm that [Patient Name] is under my professional care and has been diagnosed with anxiety, which substantially limits one or more major life activities. Due to this condition, [Patient Name] requires the support of an Emotional Support Animal. This animal provides significant comfort and alleviation of symptoms.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 2: Depression
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
This letter is to verify that [Patient Name] is my patient and has a diagnosis of major depressive disorder. Their condition is significantly improved by the presence of an Emotional Support Animal, which reduces feelings of isolation and hopelessness.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 3: PTSD
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
I am a licensed mental health professional and have been treating [Patient Name] for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). An Emotional Support Animal is a necessary component of their treatment plan, providing a sense of safety and reducing anxiety triggers.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 4: Panic Disorder
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
This letter confirms that [Patient Name] is a patient of mine and has been diagnosed with Panic Disorder. Their Emotional Support Animal assists in managing panic attacks and provides a calming presence during periods of high anxiety.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 5: Social Anxiety
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to verify that [Patient Name] is under my care and has been diagnosed with Social Anxiety Disorder. Their Emotional Support Animal enables them to navigate social situations with greater confidence and reduces feelings of fear and self-consciousness.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 6: Bipolar Disorder
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
This letter confirms that [Patient Name] is under my care and has been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. Their Emotional Support Animal helps to regulate their mood swings and provides a sense of stability and comfort.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 7: Agoraphobia
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to verify that [Patient Name] is under my care and has been diagnosed with Agoraphobia. Their Emotional Support Animal allows them to venture outside of their home and decreases feelings of terror.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 8: OCD
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
This letter confirms that [Patient Name] is under my care and has been diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Their Emotional Support Animal helps to reduce compulsions and feelings of anxiety.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 9: General Stress
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to verify that [Patient Name] is under my care and has chronic stress. Their Emotional Support Animal lowers anxiety levels and helps to reduce stress hormones.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 10: Grief
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
This letter confirms that [Patient Name] is under my care and is grieving a loss. Their Emotional Support Animal provides feelings of comfort and security during this transition.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 11: Loneliness
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to verify that [Patient Name] is under my care and experiences feelings of loneliness and isolation. Their Emotional Support Animal reduces loneliness and promotes feelings of calm.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 12: Phobias
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
This letter confirms that [Patient Name] is under my care and has a phobia that significantly limits their ability to perform normal tasks. Their Emotional Support Animal allows them to manage feelings of fear.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 13: Child Anxiety
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to verify that [Patient Name] is under my care and has anxiety. Their Emotional Support Animal reduces anxiety and promotes feelings of security.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 14: Low Self-Esteem
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
This letter confirms that [Patient Name] is under my care and suffers from low self-esteem. Their Emotional Support Animal promotes feelings of worthiness and love.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 15: Borderline Personality Disorder
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to verify that [Patient Name] is under my care and has been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. Their Emotional Support Animal helps to regulate mood swings and reduce unstable relationships.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 16: ADHD
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
This letter confirms that [Patient Name] is under my care and has been diagnosed with ADHD. Their Emotional Support Animal helps to focus their attention and reduces feelings of restlessness and hyperactivity.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 17: Insomnia
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to verify that [Patient Name] is under my care and struggles with insomnia. Their Emotional Support Animal provides feelings of calm and reduces stress.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 18: Eating Disorder
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
This letter confirms that [Patient Name] is under my care and is struggling with an eating disorder. Their Emotional Support Animal promotes feelings of security and acceptance and reduces feelings of anxiety.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 19: Adjustment Disorder
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to verify that [Patient Name] is under my care and has been diagnosed with Adjustment Disorder. Their Emotional Support Animal provides feelings of security and comfort.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 20: Learning Disability
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
This letter confirms that [Patient Name] is under my care and has been diagnosed with a learning disability. Their Emotional Support Animal helps them to feel relaxed and supported.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 21: Schizophrenia
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to verify that [Patient Name] is under my care and has been diagnosed with Schizophrenia. Their Emotional Support Animal provides a grounding effect and helps to calm them during episodes.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 22: Tourette Syndrome
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
This letter confirms that [Patient Name] is under my care and has been diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome. Their Emotional Support Animal helps to calm them during episodes of high anxiety.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Sample 23: General Wellbeing
Date
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to verify that [Patient Name] is under my care and benefits from an increased state of general wellbeing as a result of their Emotional Support Animal.
Sincerely,
[LMHP Name], [License Number]
[Contact Information]
Conclusion
These samples illustrate the core components of an ESA letter. Remember, obtaining a legitimate ESA letter requires evaluation and recommendation from a licensed mental health professional. While these examples provide insight into the typical language and format, they should not be used as templates. Always prioritize working with a qualified professional to ensure your ESA letter is valid and meets all legal requirements. A genuine ESA letter is a powerful tool that allows individuals with emotional or mental disabilities to benefit from the support and companionship of their animal.
