About ecothera

ecothera is a social enterprise and horticultural therapy practice serving Paris, Brantford, and surrounding areas. We offer nature-based programs that support mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing while fostering connection and community. Working with a wide range of groups and organizations, we create inclusive, engaging programming that can take place in green spaces or community settings. 

Our offerings include therapeutic gardening, guided nature-based walks, creative and expressive projects, facilitated workshops, and ecological restoration initiatives. ecothera also provides program development, consultation, and grant support to assist organizations in designing, implementing, and sustaining restorative green spaces and evidence-informed, nature-based programs.

About the Team

While ecothera is led by a sole practitioner, our work is supported by an extensive network of trusted, values-aligned professionals. Depending on the needs of each program or partnership, we thoughtfully collaborate with freelance horticultural therapy professionals, social workers, psychotherapists, physiotherapists, sustainable landscape designers, ecologists, and other specialists.

This flexible, interdisciplinary approach allows us to create responsive, well-rounded experiences—bringing together diverse expertise to support individual, community, and environmental wellbeing. Each collaborator is carefully selected for their skill, integrity, and shared commitment to accessible, grounded care.

About the Founder

Kailey Stewart is a horticultural therapy practitioner, florist, and social work student. She is currently a Master Gardener In-Training, pursuing a Social Service Worker Diploma at Durham College, a Horticulture Diploma at the University of Guelph, and Horticultural Therapy Certificate, Bird's Foot HT Education Series. She is also a member of the Canadian Horticultural Therapy Association.

  • Nonprofit Experience

    With over 10 years as a florist and 5 years in nonprofit community service, Kailey has seen firsthand how engagement with plants and green spaces supports wellbeing, fosters connection, and strengthens communities.

  • Hospice Internship

    She is currently the Horticultural Therapy Intern at Stedman Community Hospice (Brantford) and will begin as a Horticultural Therapy Facilitator for County of Brant 55+ Programming in September 2026.

  • Vision and Values

    As a budding professional in horticultural therapy, she is dedicated to creating inclusive, impactful programs that help individuals and groups reconnect with the natural world and experience meaningful growth.