Emotional support animals (ESA) and psychiatric service dogs (PSD) play a crucial role in assisting individuals with mental health conditions. However, the documentation required for each differs significantly. Whether you're seeking an ESA or PSD letter, understanding the distinctions between them ensures you obtain the right certification for your needs.

What is an ESA Letter?
An ESA letter is an official document from a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) that certifies your need for an emotional support animal. Unlike service dogs, ESAs are not trained for specific tasks but provide emotional comfort and relief from anxiety, depression, or PTSD.

Key Benefits of an ESA Letter:
Allows your emotional support animal to live in no-pet housing under the Fair Housing Act (FHA).
Helps prevent landlords from charging pet fees or denying housing.
Provides legal recognition for your support animal’s role in your mental health.
What is a PSD Letter?
A PSD letter is an official document verifying that you have a psychiatric disability and require a trained psychiatric service dog. Unlike ESAs, PSDs undergo specialized training to perform tasks such as alerting to anxiety attacks, interrupting harmful behaviors, or reminding medication schedules.

Key Benefits of a PSD Letter:
Grants your service dog public access rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Allows your PSD to accompany you on flights without additional fees under the Air copyright Access Act (ACAA).
Provides legal protections in housing and employment settings.
ESA vs. PSD Letter: Key Differences
Feature ESA Letter PSD Letter
Legal Protections FHA (Housing) ADA (Public Access) & FHA
Training Required No Yes (Task-Specific)
Air Travel Rights Limited Full Access PSD Letters (ACAA)
Purpose Emotional Comfort Task Assistance for Psychiatric Disabilities
Which One Do You Need?
If you require emotional support but do not need a trained dog for specific tasks, an ESA letter is sufficient. However, if you have a psychiatric disability and need a trained dog to assist with daily life, a PSD letter is the right choice.