Therapy Dogs
The best medicine could be a drug - or a dog. For years, doctors have known the value of therapy dogs - but until recently the reports have been largely anecdotal. Now, with new research, funding and clinical trials, animal assisted therapy is on the rise. This documentary shows how man's best friend is being utilized in Western Pennsylvania to help hospital patients, teenagers traumatized by a school tragedy, and even stressed-out college students cramming for finals.
Therapy Dogs aired on Nov 06, 2014.
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Series: Specials
The tourism industry calls it “ruin porn” – a chic fascination with landmarks in decay. Pennsylvania is filled with historic, vacated places just waiting to be explored. To coincide with this growing trend in abandoned tourism, WQED visits a few unique, offbeat attractions.
Original airdate: Oct 26, 2017
Pittsburgh has long been a vibrant mix of technology and tradition, a blending of ethnic customs and civic pride. As our city and its people evolve to meet the challenges of the 21st century, Pittsburgh continues to grow: inspiring new ideas, new businesses and a changing landscape. But can we create a better quality of life for all our communities? How do we make it a city where young people of color can stay and prosper? And how do we make our businesses more equitable and inclusive?
Original airdate: Jun 01, 2017
First-time psychotic episodes are frightening, confusing and distressing for the entire family. Traditionally, teens and young adults experiencing first-episode psychosis (FEP) have been pulled out of school and/or society – only to begin a lifelong journey of spotty treatment, recurring episodes, and unfulfilled hopes of a career, happy marriage and children. But new research shows a significant success rate for people who receive proper, coordinated care after a first episode. This documentary shows who’s leading the FEP treatment movement, while families share personal stories of heartbreak, success and hope. The program also explores fascinating research on young adult brains that could lead to life-changing treatment of psychosis.
Original airdate: Mar 30, 2017
Church has always been an important part of African-American life. While Western Pennsylvania is blessed with hundreds of predominantly black churches, this documentary focuses on just five - but each with a very different story: a church with ties to the underground railroad (Bethel A.M.E. in Monongahela), one known for its rich music program (Mount Ararat Baptist in Pittsburgh's Larimer neighborhood), a small church soldiering on despite dwindling membership (Allen Chapel A.M.E.
Original airdate: Feb 23, 2017
The number of seniors is rising dramatically in the United States. But the number of medical professionals and family members who can provide care for these older adults is seriously lagging. WQED is proud to partner with Highmark Blue Cross, Blue Shield in this multi-platform project that includes a television documentary and digital-first content focusing on challenges for both the aging seniors and their caregivers.
Original airdate: Feb 14, 2017
As the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump nears, moderator Chris Moore sits down with a group of local voters who talk openly about who they voted for in the presidential election and why. Voters explain the campaign messages that appealed to them, and discuss whether they feel post-election healing is a possibility.
Original airdate: Jan 19, 2017
