How to Write an ESA Letter: A Comprehensive Guide for Therapists and Patients

If you’re a therapist or someone struggling with a mental health condition, you know that an emotional support animal (ESA) can be life-changing. ESAs aren’t just companions; they’re a reminder of stability, calm, innocence, and love. The emotions they bring out in us have the power to ease our worries, comfort us when sad, and make us laugh when we least expect it. Overall, their tender silliness and grounding presence make mental health symptoms more manageable. 

To keep our ESAs by our side, no matter our housing situation, a valid emotional support animal letter is key. But writing an ESA letter is more than filling out a form; it’s a process that requires therapists to consider both legal and ethical guidelines. For the person in need, this letter can be a lifeline.

In this article, we’ll cover exactly how to write an ESA letter with an easy-to-follow guide that you can follow to be certain it’s valid. 

What is an ESA Letter?

An ESA letter is an official document written by a licensed mental health professional that verifies your need for an ESA to housing authorities. The letter allows people to live with their ESAs wherever they choose, even in places with no-pet policies. In emotional terms, an ESA letter for housing offers a sense of stability, reducing the anxiety of moving or losing an animal because of no-pet policies. 

It’s considered a legal document under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) — a federal law that forces landlords to make accommodations for people with disabilities, including people with ESAs. 

Who Can Write an ESA Letter?

The rules about who (and when) a professional can write a valid ESA letter change by state. Here’s what to look for: 

Licensed Mental Health Professionals

Only a licensed mental health professional can write a legitimate ESA letter. That includes licensed therapists, psychologists, or psychiatrists. Typically, they’re not written by General Physicians (GPs) because the professional writing the document has to specialize in mental health. It’s how the law can ensure that the mental health assessment for an ESA is done accurately. 

State-Specific Licenses

There are varying evaluation processes and laws regarding who can write the letter in different states. For example, California, Montana, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Iowa require mental health professionals to have a minimum 30-day relationship with their clients before they can write an ESA letter. That means at least two consultations are needed: one that marks the beginning of the relationship, and one after 30 days to write the ESA letter. The telehealth laws also change by state, where therapists must follow strict regulations for virtual sessions.

Moving to Another State: Where Should The Therapist Be Licensed?

If you’re searching for a therapist to write your letter, it’s important to remember that therapists licensed in one state can only provide services, including ESA letters, to clients in that same state. So be careful not to waste time searching for a professional who’s not licensed where you currently live. If you’re about to move to a new state, you can get the letter from the state where you currently live and after it expires, you can look for a therapist licensed in your new state.

How to Write an ESA Letter as a Therapist

Following a valid ESA letter process means abiding by ethical and legal guidelines. Here’s a guide on how to write an ESA letter for a client or patient that will make sure you check every legal box: 

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing an ESA Letter for a Client or Patient

Key Elements to Include

Tick off each of these boxes when writing the letter:

• Issue and expiration date (one year)
• Client’s full name and contact information
• Professional’s full name, license details, practicing state, and contact information
• A statement confirming the client has a mental health condition
• The type and breed of the animal and its role in alleviating symptoms
• Legal reference to the Fair Housing Act (FHA), stating that the client and their ESA are recommended to live together and that the landlord must make “reasonable accommodations” and allow the animal
• Professional signature and letterhead

Legal Requirements

Here’s what to know to make sure your letter respects client privacy and follows state and federal standards:

• State Licensing Requirement: The professional must be licensed in the same state as the client. 
• Diagnosis Statement: To protect the client’s privacy, details don’t need to be given about their specific condition. There only needs to be a statement confirming that they have a mental health condition but the diagnosis doesn’t need to be disclosed. A clear statement, however, that their specific animal reduces symptoms is necessary. 
• Telehealth Regulations: Different states might have specific laws for telehealth ESA letters. Check the American Psychological Association: Telehealth Guidelines for ESA Letters. 
• Fair Housing Act (FHA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): The FHA forces landlords to make accommodations for tenants with disabilities, which includes ESA’s — even with no-pet policies. However, ESAs aren’t covered by the ADA, which allows service animals access to public places like restaurants and stores. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

If any information is missing, the letter can be rejected by the landlord or housing authorities. It’s also unethical and illegal to write a letter without meeting the client. Any language that comes off as misleading, overly general, or unclear may give housing authorities suspicion. A clear statement that the client has a mental health condition and that their specific ESA will help is essential. 

Other common mistakes in writing ESA letters are being unaware of different state laws — whether that’s for the 30-day relationship requirement or specific telehealth guidelines. 

FAQs‍

Who is eligible for an ESA letter?

Eligibility for ESA letters includes anyone with a mental health condition who benefits from an ESA. 

Can any therapist write an ESA letter?

No, only a licensed mental health professional can write a legitimate ESA letter. That includes licensed therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists. 

What happens if my ESA letter is rejected?

Go over the ESA requirements with your therapist to check if any information was left out. Ask them to make a revised version and present your letter again to the authorities. 

How long is an ESA letter valid?

ESA letter validity is usually for one year. If you move again a year later or if your housing authorities ask for yearly renewals, you’ll have to get a new letter. 

Final Thoughts

Crafting an ESA letter that’s legal and genuinely helpful isn’t just paperwork — it’s a chance to make a real difference in someone’s life. By following the guidelines in this article, you can relax knowing that your ESA certification is valid. 

As a mental health professional, make sure you’re following your specific state laws for the client relationship duration and telehealth guidelines. Finally, make it clear that your client’s specific ESA is key for helping them manage their condition. With that, and ticking all the boxes, you’re not only advocating for your client’s needs but also building trust and abiding by all the legal standards.