Therapeutic Horticulture Practitioner (THP)

Therapeutic Horticulture Practitioner (THP)

THP is Your Starting Point

The Therapeutic Horticulture Practitioner (THP) registration recognizes professionals with education in horticultural therapy and practical work experience providing therapeutic horticulture services.

THP is the entry-level professional registration in horticultural therapy. It’s perfect for those beginning their career or formalizing their experience.

Once you gain additional training and hours, you can upgrade to HTR (Horticultural Therapist-Registered) or apply for the HT-BC (Horticultural Therapist- Board Certified).

Am I Eligible? Review the Checklist.

Verify that you have completed all of the following requirements before submitting your application:

• Current AHTA Membership: You must be an Associate Level I or Associate Level II member completed with year 2
• Horticultural Therapy Education: Completed coursework specifically in horticultural therapy
• Work Experience: 500 documented hours providing therapeutic horticulture services
  

Educational Requirements for THP

THP requires nine (9) semester credits of focused coursework in horticultural therapy. Unlike HTR, you don't need extensive plant and human science education; the focus is on solid foundational knowledge in therapeutic horticulture practice.

Work Experience: The 500 Hours

THP requires nine (9) semester credits of focused coursework in horticultural therapy. Unlike HTR, you don't need extensive plant and human science education; the focus is on solid foundational knowledge in therapeutic horticulture practice.

Pro Tip: Document as You Go

Keep a detailed log of your hours throughout your work experience. Include dates, settings, populations served, and activities conducted. This makes completing your verification form much easier!

Required Documents Checklist (THP)

Gather these materials BEFORE starting your application:

• Official Transcripts: From all institutions where you completed horticultural therapy coursework (must be sent directly from the institution or in sealed envelope)
• Completed Online Application: AHTA professional registration application form
• Verification of Work Experience–THP Form: Must be completed and signed by your supervisor or employer, documenting dates and 500 hours of work
• Proof of Services Rendered: If applicable, additional documentation showing your therapeutic horticulture work
• Application Fee: $100 (online payment or check)

Document Format Requirements:

• All documents must be submitted online.
• Acceptable formats are clean scanned copies in JPEG or PDF format.
• It is your responsibility to verify all materials have been received.
• Applications will not be reviewed until ALL documents are received.
  

Who Can Sign My Verification Form?

Your supervisor or employer must sign your "Verification of Work Experience" form. This should be someone who can attest to your hours and the nature of your therapeutic horticulture work. They don’t need to be an HTR, but they should be familiar with your work.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step