When I embarked on the journey to earn my certificate in Therapeutic Horticulture, I couldn’t have imagined the profound impact it would have on my perspective, skills, and sense of purpose. This course has been more than an educational pursuit—it has been a transformative experience that has deepened my understanding of how plants, people, and purpose intersect.  It has also allowed me to redirect the hurt, trauma and suffering from the loss of my daughter and the divide in my family.

What I’ve Learned

Throughout this course, I’ve gained a comprehensive understanding of how therapeutic horticulture (TH) can be a powerful tool for healing, education, and community-building. Here are a few key takeaways:

1. The Power of Nature
   I’ve learned that nature is not just a backdrop but an active participant in fostering emotional, physical, and social well-being. Gardening can serve as a medium for self-expression, a calming refuge for mental health, and a bridge to build connections within communities.
2. Skills for Program Development
   From budget management and marketing strategies to creating evaluation plans and designing inclusive spaces, I’ve gained the practical tools needed to launch and sustain impactful TH programs. I now feel confident in my ability to turn a vision into a tangible, thriving initiative.
3. The Importance of Accessibility and Inclusivity
   The principles of universal design have taught me how to create spaces that are intuitive and welcoming for people of all abilities. Whether designing raised garden beds or crafting activities that engage diverse populations, accessibility is now at the heart of everything I plan.
4. Healing Through Connection
   This course confirmed something deeply personal for me: therapeutic horticulture works. As a parent who experienced the profound loss of a child to suicide, I know firsthand how connecting with plants and the earth can bring solace. This understanding motivates me to share TH with others, especially teens navigating mental and behavioral health challenges.

My Achievements

• Earned My Certification: Completing this program has equipped me with the credentials and knowledge to pursue therapeutic horticulture professionally.
• Developed the Harvest Heroes Program: Through this course, I created a detailed proposal for the Harvest Heroes Urban Farm Club, combining entrepreneurship, skill-building, and therapeutic gardening for 4th and 5th graders. This program addresses food insecurity while fostering leadership and teamwork.
• Built Skills for Impact: I’ve mastered the art of creating meaningful programs, designing evaluation tools, and collaborating with community stakeholders to make initiatives sustainable and impactful.

Looking Ahead

Earning this certificate is just the beginning. I am excited to bring therapeutic horticulture to life through initiatives like Harvest Heroes and beyond. My goal is to empower individuals and communities to grow not just plants, but resilience, connection, and hope.

This journey has affirmed my belief in the healing power of horticulture and reinforced my dedication to helping others through creative, nature-based solutions. I am deeply grateful for the knowledge I’ve gained and the doors this certification has opened.

Here’s to a future filled with growth, both in the garden and beyond! 🌱

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