Horticultural Therapist

People have long believed in the healing and therapeutic powers of gardening. Thus horticultural therapy was born. Horticultural therapists, like art or music therapists, use plants and gardening activities in order to improve the body, mind, and spirit of each of their clients. Called a “cognitive therapy”, horticultural therapy teaches people new skills and also helps them regain those that may have been lost.

Some benefits of horticultural therapy are an improved memory, social growth, and physical rehabilitation. In places where horticultural therapy is used in a vocational setting, the clients learn to work independently, follow directions, and solve problems on their own, preparing them for future jobs and also helping with life skills. Horticultural therapy benefits everyone, but enjoys success with adults and children who have physical, psychological, or developmental disabilities, people recovering from illness or injury, victims of abuse, public offenders, recovering addicts, and people in nursing homes or hospice centers.

Horticultural therapists are employed in hospitals, rehabilitation and vocational centers, nursing homes and senior centers, community and botanic gardens, schools, farms, horticulture businesses, and prisons. Their income varies due to the capacity in which they are employed as well as their education and experience.

Horticultural therapists have many degree options open to them.They can pursue a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in horticultural therapy, a Certificate in Horticultural Therapy, or individual coursework. Of course, the more education and experience one has will lead to better employment and greater income. As more people become aware of the benefits of horticultural therapy, this profession and those places where it is offered as a degree program will increase greatly.

California Schools
	(Boise, San Diego) - Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Technician, Holistic Health Practitioner, Massage Therapy, Optical Technician, Administrative Medical/Dental Assistant
	- (Bakersfield)* - Holistic Health Practitioner
Maric College	(Vista)* - Holistic Health Practitioner
	(SF Bay Area) - Massage Therapist and Health Educator
Silicon Valley College*	(Emeryville, Fremont, San Jose , Walnut Creek ) - Holistic Health Practitioner, Massage Therapy

Idaho Schools
	(Boise) - Administrative Medical/Dental Assistant, Dental Assisting, Holistic Health Practitioner, Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Technician

Oregon Schools
Ashmead College	(Tigard) - Massage Therapy, Spa & Aromatherapy

Washington Schools
Ashmead College*	(Seattle, Fife, Vancouver , Everett)- Fitness Trainer, Massage Therapy, Spa and Aromatherapy

*Program Availability Varies By Location and Often Changes. To get the most up-to-date information, use the links we provide to request additional information from a local campus representative.