Horticulture Therapy

Horticultural therapy (HT) is the engagement of a patient in gardening-related activities, facilitated by a trained therapist, to attain specific treatment goals.  While simple and low-tech, HT is an effective and beneficial treatment for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.
 
HT has proven positive outcomes.  It is non-threatening, encourages social activity, stimulates memory, provides sensory stimulation and exercise, reduces stress and tension, diminishes anger and rewards nurturing behavior.
 
As a cognitive therapy, HT helps patients regain lost skills or learn new ones.  When used in physical rehabilitation, HT retrains muscles and improves coordination, balance and strength.
 
In addition to a garden and greenhouse, Nature’s Edge has beautiful nature trails, a trout stream, duck pond, farmland and woods to provide patients many opportunities to spend time in natural habitats.