It’s exciting to begin our next Therapeutic Horticulture training in May this year!
When I first decided to deliver the training program back in 2021, I knew I wanted to share my knowledge of therapeutic horticulture, along with the years of experience I had gathered, with people keen to work in this incredible field.
As there’s currently no accredited training in Therapeutic Horticulture available in Australia, I wanted to offer my support and guidance to others, as it is an emerging field with many opportunities across healthcare, allied health, aged care, mental health, disability services, and various community organisations.
Since establishing Soil to Supper in 2011, I’ve delivered numerous workshops focused on horticulture, with an emphasis on growing food organically, sustainability, and incorporating my permaculture studies.
I have always enjoyed running workshops and sharing my knowledge in an authentic, engaging way.
I believe in creating a supportive learning environment where participants can connect with each other.
By keeping class sizes small, I ensure an intimate learning experience, allowing for meaningful discussions and plenty of opportunities for questions.
When I decided to offer training in Therapeutic Horticulture, I drew on my experience, skills, and passion for live workshops.
With the help of my good friend Greg Poultney, who has training and event experience, we developed a fantastic two-day program, which we first delivered on the Sunshine Coast in April 2021.
After the initial in-person training, I had to rethink the delivery method due to COVID-related travel restrictions.
As a result, we transitioned the program online, structuring it into four weekly sessions, delivered via an online course platform.
This enabled me to include a range of resources, workbooks, videos, and tools for participants to access at their convenience.
Since then, I’ve delivered the training twice a year, receiving fantastic feedback from participants.
“I found the online training format easy to understand, comprehensive and relatable. And Cath was fantastic at delivering this training!! Thank you so much!!”
Now as I prepare for the 2025 sessions, I’m excited to welcome a new group of eager participants who want to learn how to deliver gardening programs and support others in the garden.
Due to other commitments, including the launch of Therapeutic Garden Tours, I’ve decided to run the training program once this year and hopefully in 2026 will offer the training face-to-face again on the Sunshine Coast.
Through The Wellbeing Garden Academy, participants will learn effective ways to guide and support individuals in enjoying gardening at home. This training is also applicable in aged care settings, NDIS programs, school gardens, and various community organisations.
The training is suitable for professionals in healthcare, allied health, aged care, and other related sectors who wish to incorporate gardening into their current roles.
Participants will gain a deep understanding of therapeutic horticulture, the health and wellbeing benefits of gardening, and practical strategies to implement programs for individuals and groups.
We cover topics such as selecting appropriate plants, necessary equipment, and how to establish a program within an organisation or as a small business.
If you’re interested in Therapeutic Horticulture, Horticultural Therapy, or incorporating gardening into your profession, consider joining me this May for four weeks of online training, held on Saturday mornings.
You’ll find more details HERE.
If you have any questions, please get in touch—I’d be happy to arrange a time to chat and discuss any queries you may have.
I look forward to welcoming you to The Wellbeing Garden Academy in May and supporting you on your journey into therapeutic horticulture!
