Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about ESA letters, PSD letters, and our evaluation process.
About ESA Letters
An ESA letter is a document issued by a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) stating that you have a qualifying mental health condition and that an emotional support animal provides therapeutic benefit. It is not a certification, registry, or prescription.
Qualification is determined by a licensed mental health professional based on a clinical evaluation. Generally, individuals with diagnosed mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, panic disorder, or OCD may qualify.
ESA letters provide housing protections under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), which applies throughout the United States. However, individual circumstances vary.
Most ESA letters are valid for one year from the date of issue. Annual renewal evaluations help ensure your documentation remains current.
Technically yes — the FHA does not restrict ESAs to specific species. However, landlords may request information about the animal if it poses a threat or direct threat to others.
About PSD Letters
A psychiatric service dog (PSD) is a dog trained to perform specific tasks that mitigate a person's psychiatric disability. PSDs are protected under the ADA and have public access rights.
ESAs provide emotional support through companionship. PSDs are trained to perform specific tasks and have broader legal protections including public access rights under the ADA.
The ADA allows owners to train their own service dogs. The dog must be trained to perform a task directly related to the handler's disability.
A single dog can function as both an ESA and a PSD, but the documentation requirements differ. Your provider can advise on appropriate documentation.
About Our Process
Complete our short online assessment, then book a video consultation with one of our licensed providers. If your provider determines a letter is clinically appropriate, you'll receive it digitally.
The online assessment takes 5–10 minutes. The consultation typically lasts 30–45 minutes. Most clients receive their letter within 24 hours of their evaluation if approved.
If your provider determines that an ESA or PSD letter is not clinically appropriate, you will receive documentation of your evaluation. The evaluation fee is non-refundable.
Yes. All consultations are HIPAA-compliant and your information is protected. We do not share your health information without your consent.
A smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and internet connection. We use a secure video platform compatible with most modern browsers.
Legal & Housing
Landlords may deny an ESA request if the animal poses a direct threat, causes substantial damage, or if the housing falls under certain exemptions. A landlord cannot simply deny an ESA because of a no-pets policy.
No. ESA registries are not legally recognized. An ESA letter from a licensed LMHP is the only valid documentation.
As of 2021, the DOT no longer requires airlines to accommodate ESAs. Most airlines now treat ESAs as pets. Only properly trained service dogs are required to be accommodated.
The Fair Housing Act (FHA) prohibits discrimination in housing and requires landlords to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, which may include allowing ESAs in no-pet housing.
No. Service dog vests, ID cards, and patches are not legally required and do not confer any legal status. Proper ADA documentation is what matters.
ESAs do not have workplace access rights under the ADA. However, you may be entitled to discuss reasonable accommodations with your employer separately.
Have more questions?
Our support team is here to help. Reach out and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
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