About the American Horticultural Therapy Association

About the American Horticultural Therapy Association

Advancing Horticulture as Therapy Since 1973

The American Horticultural Therapy Association (AHTA) was founded in 1973 and is the only national organization in the United States dedicated to advancing horticulture as a therapeutic practice that supports human health and well-being.

We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, membership-driven organization with a clear mission:
To promote and advance horticultural therapy as a respected therapeutic and rehabilitative profession.

AHTA brings together people who believe in the healing power of plants and nature—and who are committed to using that power in meaningful, professional ways.

Who We Serve

AHTA supports a diverse and growing community, including:

Our members live and work across the United States, Canada, Japan, and beyond, forming a global network connected by shared values and purpose.

What We Do

AHTA works to strengthen the horticultural therapy profession by:

• Supporting professional development and education
• Defining and promoting high standards of practice
• Sharing research, resources, and best practices
• Recognizing excellence in:
• Clinical work
• Education
• Professional leadership
• Research and innovation



Through conferences, publications, training opportunities, and community connections, we help ensure horticultural therapy continues to grow, evolve, and thrive.

Our Commitment

AHTA is committed to:

• Advancing ethical, effective, and inclusive practices.
• Building strong professional connections
• Elevating research and evidence-based work
• Promoting the value of HT in healthcare, community, and educational settings
  

AHTA Mission

AHTA is a non-profit membership-driven organization whose mission is to promote and advance the profession of Horticultural Therapy as a therapeutic intervention and rehabilitative modality through:

Together, we are cultivating healing, growth, and resilience—one plant, one person, and one community at a time 🌱

Diversity Helps All of Us Thrive

AHTA's DEI Statement

The American Horticultural Therapy Association (AHTA) recognizes that true diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), must go beyond a simple statement, and we understand this value must be at the core of AHTA is as an organization.

The AHTA understands the importance of, and is committed to, promoting DEI in our programs, membership, and board of directors.

Just as biodiversity is essential for all natural systems, human diversity is central to the practice of horticultural therapy.

Horticultural therapy impacts many populations and communities, and we embrace all individuals inclusive of all abilities, ages, ethnicities, genders, races, sexual orientations, economic status or spiritual beliefs. Moreover, the AHTA is committed to ensuring that the diverse communities in which we serve are more greatly represented among its membership and leadership bodies.

We recognize that the experiences, perspectives, and values, and contributions of diverse individuals and communities expand our network’s reach and engage more people in the AHTA’s mission, thus making the profession stronger and more impactful.

The AHTA is committed to embracing all people in the communities where we work. We are dedicated to increasing the diversity of our board, members, and supporters. Diversity, equity, and inclusion matters to the AHTA.

The contributions, experiences, perspectives, and values of diverse individuals and communities help build a strong profession and AHTA aims to expand our network’s reach and engage more people in our mission.

Why the American Horticultural Therapy Association Matters

The American Horticultural Therapy Association (AHTA) plays a vital role in strengthening, supporting, and advancing the field of horticultural therapy. Through advocacy, education, and connection, AHTA helps ensure the profession continues to grow with integrity, visibility, and impact.

Promoting Horticultural Therapy as a Profession

AHTA serves as a national and international leader for horticultural therapy by:

• Providing a strong national voice and presence for the profession
• Advocating for the recognition, validity, and advancement of horticultural therapy
• Raising public awareness through initiatives like National Horticultural Therapy Week
• Serving as a trusted source of information on horticultural therapy
• Monitoring trends in horticultural therapy and related fields, including healthcare
• Building connections across a wide range of professional disciplines

• Supporting fundraising efforts for the Association and the profession
• Defining and promoting ethical and professional standards of practice
• Maintaining professional registration standards for practitioners
• Working toward future accreditation of horticultural therapy professionals
• Maintaining a strong international presence
• Strengthening the profession through collective membership and collaboration

Supporting Our Members

AHTA is committed to helping members thrive by offering meaningful support and opportunities, including:

• Professional registration at the Horticultural Therapist Registered (HTR) level
• Promotion of job openings and internship opportunities
• A user-friendly website with an expanded members-only section
• Awards that recognize and highlight outstanding programs and individuals
• Regular communication through:
• The AHTA Newsletter
• Board Bulletins
• A professional LinkedIn community forum

Advancing Education & Research

Education is at the heart of AHTA’s mission. The Association supports learning and growth by:

• Establishing standards for internships and intern supervisors
• Accrediting and monitoring horticultural therapy certificate programs
• Publishing the Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture
• Hosting an annual conference focused on learning, connection, and innovation
• Encouraging networking among members and regional groups
• Serving as a primary resource for educational institutions across the U.S.
• Advising and supporting international horticultural therapy programs