AHTA Credentials

AHTA Credentials Help You Stand Out

Earning a credential from AHTA means you achieved the pinnacle of practice in horticultural therapy and therapeutic horticulture. No other organization holds the same standards, ethics, or 50+ years of organizational experience as AHTA.

The American Horticultural Therapy Association professional credentials ensures the public that professional competencies have been achieved based on standardized academic requirements and professional training. We currently offer two voluntary registration credentials, and are adding a board certification credential this fall.

The Therapeutic Horticulture Practitioner, the THP, recognizes professionals with an education in horticultural therapy and work experience providing therapeutic horticulture services. Individuals at this registration level may advance to Horticultural Therapist-Registered upon completion of additional requirements.

The Horticultural Therapist-Registered, the HTR, recognizes professionals who have an education in both plant science and human science, and horticultural therapy with additional training acquired through an intensive internship experience in horticultural therapy. 

Why Seek an AHTA Credential?

AHTA professional registration demonstrates to employers, clients, and the public that you have met standardized competency requirements in horticultural therapy. Registration validates your education, training, and professional experience through an independent review process.

Professional Credibility – Recognized registrations that distinguish you in the field

Career Advancement – Many employers prefer or require professional registration

Public Assurance – Demonstrates your commitment to professional standards and ethics

Professional Development – Join a community of registered practitioners dedicated to excellence

Quality Assurance – Ensures clients receive services from qualified professionals

Our Credentials Explained

Board Certification (HT-BC)

Also known as "being certified" is the most advanced credential. Certification requires specific educational requirements, experience requirement, and a passing score on the board certification exam. This certification will officially begin fall 2026 when we launch the HT-BC board certification exam.

Certificate in Horticultural Therapy

Horticultural therapy certificates  are provided by colleges and universities after completing their Horticultural Therapy certificate program. Many HT certificate programs are accredited by AHTA. This means those schools meet the academic standards for class content outlined by AHTA.

Registered Horticultural Therapist & Therapeutic Horticulture Practitioner

Registration as a Horticultural Therapist (HTR) or Therapeutic Horticulture Practitioner (THP)  are titles AHTA provides to individuals who have met specific education and experience requirements. The HT-BC is replacing HTR as the most advanced credential, but the THP is still available for practitioners who want a credential on their way to board certification, or have another board certified credential in an allied field.

Coming in Fall 2026:

Board Certification

Scheduled to have the first test takers in October 2026, The Horticultural Therapist–Board Certified (HT-BC) credential is well into its development.


This certification represents significant steps forward by:

  • Establishing professional standards
  • Enhancing credibility
  • Advancing the field of horticultural therapy. 

As the profession gains recognition, certification provides several key benefits:

As the profession gains recognition, certification provides several key benefits:

  • Professional Credibility
  • Standardization of Practice
  • Demonstrating Expertise and Skill Development
  • Increased Public and Industry Recognition
  • Continuing Education and Growth

THP vs. HTR

THP

Therapeutic Horticulture Practitioner

Eligibility Check:

Current AHTA Associate member

Completed HT coursework

500+ hours documented work experience

What You’ll Need:

  • Official transcripts
  • Completed online application
  • Verification of Work Experience form (signed)
  • Proof of services rendered (if applicable)

Pro Tip: The application form doesn't save your progress. Set aside 30–45 minutes and gather all materials first!

HTR

Registered Horticultural Therapist

Eligibility Check:

  • Current AHTA Associate member
  • Plant + human science education
  • Internship OR 1,500+ hours work experience

What You’ll Need:

  • Official transcripts
  • Completed online application
  • Verification of Work Experience form (1,500 hours, signed)
  • OR Internship performance report (signed) + project/case study

Did your school use a quarter system?

If your school uses quarters instead of semesters, use our conversion table.

Make Sure Your Courses Count

AHTA accredits Horticultural Therapy Certificate Programs for the required 9 hours of HT coursework.

The HTR and HT-BC have additional course requirements in Human Services and Horticulture. Learn more about these requirements as well as how to get pre-approval for courses.

Application Process

Here's what to expect once you're ready to apply.

Gather Materials

Step 01

Collect transcripts, verification forms, and supporting documents

Complete Application

Step 02

Fill out online form (allow 30–45 minutes)

Pay Fee

Step 03

Online payment or mail check to AHTA office

Review Period

Step 04

Wait 6 weeks for evaluation by review board

Step 05

Get Certified!

Receive your professional registration