Curaçao Dolphin Therapy & Research Center

Curaçao Therapy & Research Center is a leading dolphin-assisted therapy center, established in 2004 and located in Curaçao. The dedicated team consists of highly trained professionals, including psychologists, physiotherapists, speech therapists, and occupational therapists. And of course: five bottlenose dolphins who are exclusively used for the therapeutic program.

The CDTC offers a unique and effective treatment program in a beautiful, inspiring, and relaxing Caribbean setting.

They welcome approximately 350 patients and their families from all over the world each year. They treat patients aged 3 and older with disabilities such as autism, Asperger syndrome, or Down syndrome, as well as psychological conditions like depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and burnout.

Watch the introductory video below for a clear and comprehensive overview:

Curacao Dolphin Therapy & Research Center

Dolphin therapy has long been considered an effective form of therapy that can contribute to better cognition and mobility for people with a wide range of developmental disabilities, physical and emotional conditions. With their gentle nature and extremely high intelligence and intuition, dolphins are capable of forming what many describe as a 'magical bond' with patients with disabilities. These therapy dolphins work in a team of qualified therapists and trainers, under the supervision of a medical board of doctors, with the primary goal of improving the overall well-being of the patients.

Dolphins are essential to the program. They are seen as equal colleagues. For this reason, the center places exceptional focus on the well-being of the dolphins.

The CDTC dolphins are Atlantic bottlenose dolphins that were born at the Center in Curaçao, some more than 15 years ago, or came to Curaçao from the Roatan Institute for Marine Sciences in Honduras. Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are known for their gentleness, curiosity, and eagerness to learn how to interact with people, qualities that make them perfect therapy partners.

The dolphins are specially selected for the CDTC program and are used exclusively for therapeutic purposes. They live in spacious lagoons with a constant flow of fresh seawater. The dolphins participate in only a limited number of therapy hours and are provided with a high-quality diet. A qualified and specialized veterinarian is part of the trainers' team.

The Curaçao Dolphin Therapy & Research Center is designed to inspire people with disabilities and their families, offering a home away from home. The facilities at a glance:

Spacious seawater lagoons in direct contact with the open sea
Practical therapy platform
Treatment rooms
Indoor and outdoor family spaces
Accessible toilets, showers, and other facilities for people with disabilities

The center is located at the Curaçao Sea Aquarium in the Bapor Kibra area, right on the Caribbean Sea.

Curious and want more information? Visit the website: Home - CDTC