For Referrers — and Self-Referrers
If you work with someone who could benefit from a gentler, nature-based approach to their goals — or if you're exploring this for yourself — you're in the right place. Horticultural therapy is an evidence-informed clinical practice that complements a wide range of therapeutic and support work, and I welcome referrals from colleagues across disciplines as well as from individuals and families finding their own way here.
Who This Is For
I work with individuals and groups across the lifespan, including people living with:
Physical, developmental, or intellectual disabilities
Mental health challenges
Dementia and cognitive changes
Grief and life transition
Reduced mobility or chronic illness
Social isolation
No formal diagnosis is required. If you think nature-based support might help — for yourself or someone you support — let's talk.
How It Works
The process is straightforward, and there's no pressure at any stage. Autonomy matters here — you'll always have the chance to ask questions, take time, and decide what feels right before moving forward.
Reach out — by email or phone, tell me a little about yourself, or the person or group you have in mind
Initial conversation — we connect to talk about fit, goals, and what you're hoping for. No commitment required.
First appointment — we meet, get to know each other a little, and explore whether this feels like the right fit. Where sessions are taking place at the Guelph Enabling Garden, I'll offer a tour of the space so you can see it for yourself and decide whether you'd like to continue.
Intake and goal-setting — if we decide to move forward together, I use a thorough and collaborative intake and goal-setting process, led by what matters most to you or your client
Programming begins — sessions or programs are tailored to the individual or group, with attention to accessibility, preferences, and therapeutic goals
Ongoing communication — for referred clients, I'm happy to share progress updates and collaborate with your team as appropriate. For self-referred individuals, communication with other providers only happens with your consent.
Why Horticultural Therapy?
Horticultural therapy is goal-directed, assessment-based, and facilitated by a registered professional working toward specific therapeutic outcomes. Therapeutic horticulture is broader — nature-based programming that supports general wellbeing without a clinical framework. Both have real value, and I offer both, depending on what fits.
Research supports the benefits of nature-based intervention across a range of outcomes including stress reduction, mood, motivation, fine and gross motor function, cognitive engagement, and social connection. For many people it offers something other modalities don't — a non-clinical setting, sensory engagement, and the quiet dignity of growing something.
And for many of the people I work with, being given a genuine choice — about whether to participate, how to participate, and when to stop — is itself part of the healing.
My Credentials
Registered Horticultural Therapist (HTR), Canadian Horticultural Therapy Association — registered since 2012
Master in Environmental Studies, York University
Honours BA, University of Guelph
Based in Guelph, Ontario — serving individuals and organizations across the region
Let's Connect
I'm always happy to have a conversation before any commitment — about a specific client, a program idea, or just to learn more about each other's work. And if you're here for yourself, I'd love to hear from you too.