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Who Can Write An ESA Letter? How To Get An ESA Letter 2025

Are you wondering who can write an ESA letter? If you are considering obtaining an emotional support animal (ESA), it is essential to understand the process of obtaining an ESA letter from a legitimate source. This article will provide insights into the criteria for obtaining an ESA letter and the steps involved. By following the guidelines outlined here, you can ensure that you obtain an authentic ESA letter that allows you to enjoy the benefits of having an emotional support animal.
Who Can Write An ESA Letter?
- An ESA letter must be written by a qualified healthcare professional.
- Psychiatrists and psychologists are among the experts permitted to write ESA letters.
- Be wary of fake ESA letters without proper mental health assessments or physical addresses.
List Of Healthcare Experts Permitted To Write ESA Letter

Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are licensed mental health providers specializing in mental health. They are doctors who have the authority to diagnose mental illnesses and prescribe appropriate treatments, including recommending an ESA. When obtaining an ESA letter, it is essential to consult a licensed psychiatrist to ensure its legitimacy.
Psychologists
Psychologists[1] are professionals who specialize in the study of the mind and human behavior. They can diagnose and treat various mental or emotional disabilities. Licensed psychologists can also write ESA letters based on their assessment of an individual’s mental health needs.
Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs)
LCSWs are mental health professionals who provide therapy and support to individuals with mental health challenges. In some cases, they may be qualified to write ESA letters after conducting a thorough assessment of the individual’s mental health condition.
Primary Care Physicians
In certain situations, primary care physicians[2] may be willing to write ESA letters for their patients if they have a good understanding of the individual’s mental health condition and believe that an emotional support animal would be beneficial to their well-being.
It is important to note that the specific regulations and qualifications for healthcare professionals permitted to write ESA letters may vary by location. Individuals seeking an ESA letter should always consult with a licensed healthcare professional who is knowledgeable about their local laws and regulations.
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): What Are They?

Emotional support animals, or ESAs[3], are animals that provide comfort and support to individuals with mental health conditions. Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require specialized training. They can be any domesticated animal, including dogs, cats, rabbits, or even birds. ESAs offer companionship and emotional support[4], which can help alleviate symptoms of various mental health conditions.
Emotional Support Animal Laws
It is crucial to understand the laws and regulations surrounding emotional support animals. While ESAs do not have the same legal rights as service animals[5], they are protected under certain laws. The Fair Housing Act (FHA) allows individuals with ESAs to request reasonable accommodations in housing, even in properties with no-pet policies. Additionally, the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) permits ESAs to accompany their owners in the cabin of an aircraft during flights.
Emotional Support Animal Letter: What It Is?
An emotional support animal letter, commonly referred to as an ESA letter, is a document issued by a mental health professional. This letter serves as proof that an individual requires the companionship and support[6] of an ESA to manage their mental health illnesses. The ESA letter states that the individual has a diagnosed mental health disorder and that the presence of an emotional support animal is part of their treatment plan.
Factors That Can Help You Spot A Fake Letter
When seeking an ESA letter, it is crucial to be aware of red flags that may indicate a fake or illegitimate document. Some factors that can help you identify a fake ESA letter include:
- No mental health assessment.
- No physical location or address.
- Lack of professional credentials.
- Generic or template-like content.
- Instant or online-only issuance.
Conclusion
Obtaining a legitimate ESA letter is essential for individuals who can benefit from the companionship and support of an emotional support animal. By consulting qualified healthcare professionals such as psychiatrists or psychologists, you can ensure the credibility of your ESA letter. Be cautious of fake letters that lack mental health assessments or proper contact information. Remember to follow the guidelines provided in this article and refer to reputable sources for further information on obtaining an ESA letter.
Frequently Asked Questions
An ESA letter is a document issued by a licensed mental health professional that states an individual’s need for an emotional support animal to manage their mental health condition. It serves as proof for obtaining accommodations and benefits under certain laws.
ESA letters can be written by licensed mental health professional, including psychiatrists and psychologists, who have the authority to diagnose and treat mental health conditions.
The number of emotional support animals an individual can have may vary depending on the specific circumstances and the discretion of the licensed mental health professional issuing the ESA letter. It is advisable to consult with a qualified professional for guidance.
To obtain an ESA letter, you need to consult a licensed healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, who can assess your mental health condition and determine if an emotional support animal is appropriate for you. They will then provide you with the necessary documentation.
It is recommended to seek ESA letters from reputable and licensed healthcare professionals. Consulting with a qualified psychiatrist or psychologist is the best way to ensure the legitimacy of the ESA source.
Certapet is an online platform that connects individuals seeking emotional support animal letters with licensed healthcare professionals who can provide the necessary assessments and documentation. It is essential to research and choose reliable platforms when considering Certapet or similar services.
+ 6 sources
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- Younggren, J.N., Boisvert, J.A. and Boness, C.L. (2016). Examining emotional support animals and role conflicts in professional psychology. [online] 47(4), pp.255–260. doi:https://doi.org/10.1037/pro0000083.
- Carlisle, G.K., Brosi, T., Craven, S., Deckert, E. and Tennison, A. (2021). Patients and Their Relationships with Their Companion Animals: Veterinary Collaboration and Referral. Missouri medicine, [online] 118(6), pp.499–505. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8672946/.
- Howell, T.J., Nieforth, L.O., Thomas-Pino, C., Samet, L., S. Agbonika, Cuevas-Pavincich, F., Nina Ekholm Fry, Hill, K., Jegatheesan, B., Kakinuma, M., MacNamara, M., Sanna Mattila-Rautiainen, Perry, A., Christine Yvette Tardif-Williams, Walsh, E.J., Winkle, M., Yamamoto, M., Yerbury, R.M., Vijay P.S. Rawat and Alm, K. (2022). Defining Terms Used for Animals Working in Support Roles for People with Support Needs. [online] 12(15), pp.1975–1975. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12151975.
- Hoy-Gerlach, J., Vincent, A., Scheuermann, B. and Ojha, M.U. (2021). Exploring Benefits of Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): A Longitudinal Pilot Study with Adults with… [online] ResearchGate. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/355081840_Exploring_Benefits_of_Emotional_Support_Animals_ESAs_A_Longitudinal_Pilot_Study_with_Adults_with_Serious_Mental_Illness_SMI.
- Carlisle, G.K., Brosi, T., Craven, S., Deckert, E. and Tennison, A. (2021). Patients and Their Relationships with Their Companion Animals: Veterinary Collaboration and Referral. Missouri medicine, [online] 118(6), pp.499–505. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8672946/.
- Younggren, J.N., Boness, C.L., Bryant, L.M. and Koocher, G.P. (2020). Emotional Support Animal Assessments: Toward a Standard and Comprehensive Model for Mental Health Professionals. [online] 51(2), pp.156–162. doi:https://doi.org/10.1037/pro0000260.