- knowledge of psychology
- counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
- excellent verbal communication skills
- sensitivity and understanding
- knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
- the ability to work well with others
- leadership skills
- the ability to work well with your hands
- to be flexible and open to change
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Your day-to-day duties may include:
- developing clients' practical or social skills, confidence or self-esteem
- helping clients to learn or re-learn basic skills, including numeracy and literacy
- providing outdoor activity and exercise to restore strength and mobility after injury or illness
- supporting clients to take horticultural qualifications or to move into employment
- working closely with other professionals like psychologists and social workers
- managing staff and volunteers
- drawing up proposals for projects
You could work in a garden, on a country estate or in a therapy clinic.
Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers and physically demanding.
You could use horticultural therapy as part of a wider role, like occupational therapy. With experience and further study, you could move into a supervisory role, or research.
You could also become self-employed.
You can find out more about becoming a horticultural therapist from Thrive and the Chartered Institute of Horticulture.
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