Welcome, Wali! Labrador Joins the Carilion Children’s Team

There’s a new employee at Carilion Children’s Tanglewood Center. 

Wali, an official Saint Francis Facility Dog, has joined the team and will help with therapy sessions.

Wali, a black lab, is an official Carilion Clinic employee, complete with a badge, and will work full-time. Tara Mitchell, Ph.D., is a Licensed Pediatric Clinical Psychologist and is Wali’s handler. Wali was raised and trained for more than two years by Saint Francis Service Dogs, a Roanoke non-profit organization. He was expertly matched with Carilion Children’s and was placed at no cost. Dr. Mitchell also completed Saint Francis’s structured training program that includes multiple tests, site visits, and classes before Wali began his work at Carilion Children’s.  

He joins Dr. Mitchell and other therapists in the Pediatric Behavioral Health department in therapy sessions. Wali will help soothe patients, increase participation in treatment, assist in facilitating therapeutic conversation while playing games, and be used as a reinforcer for making efforts in treatment. He'll model the ability to manage impulsiveness, maintain focus and follow directions. He'll also engage patients in physical, speech and occupational therapies by being a motivator and playing games like cornhole or "find it." As time goes on, Wali’s abilities and roles will continue to grow. 

Dr. Mitchell says, "We are excited to have Wali join our team here at Carilion Children’s. His robust skills are already helping our patients meet their treatment goals through motivation, modeling and bringing joy to the sessions! Not only is he helping our pediatric population but the impact on our staff has been notable. Looking forward to being a part of Wali’s future at Carilion Children’s!"

If you meet Wali during his workday, be sure to address his handler first and ask them before saying hello or offering pets. This will help reinforce Wali's training and ensure he continues to offer the best experience for our patients.

Be on the lookout for regular Wali content starting in December on our social channels!