The Canadian Horticultural Therapy Association

The Canadian Horticultural Therapy Association (CHTA) serves as the national professional body supporting horticultural therapy practice in Canada. Established in 1987, it is a non-profit, volunteer-driven organization that brings together practitioners, educators, and individuals interested in the relationship between people, plants, and well-being.

The CHTA plays an important role in shaping and supporting the field of horticultural therapy in Canada. It provides professional recognition and registration pathways, supports ongoing education, and fosters connection among practitioners. The association also contributes to a shared understanding of horticultural therapy as a goal-oriented, facilitated practice that uses gardening, plants, and nature-based environments to support health and well-being.

Horticultural therapy is practiced across a wide range of settings, including schools, healthcare environments, community organizations, and long-term care homes. This breadth reflects the flexibility of the field, which adapts to different populations, environments, and program goals. While some practitioners work within more clinical or structured frameworks, others operate in community-based or therapeutic horticulture models. These approaches exist along a continuum, contributing to a diverse and evolving professional landscape.

The CHTA offers voluntary professional registration, including designations such as Horticultural Therapy Technician (HTT) and Registered Horticultural Therapist (HTR). Although registration is not required to practice, it can support professional credibility, encourage consistent standards, and promote ethical, informed care.

As interest in nature-based and therapeutic practices continues to grow, horticultural therapy in Canada is expanding in both scope and application. Organizations such as the CHTA provide an important foundation for this growth by supporting practitioners, advancing awareness, and fostering a connected professional community.

For those seeking to learn more about horticultural therapy in Canada, the CHTA serves as a valuable resource and point of connection within the field.