2009 MHTA 30th ANNUAL CONFERENCE
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HORTICULTURAL THERAPY: CONNECTING PEOPLE AND PLANTS
2008 MHTA 30th ANNUAL CONFERENCE
HORTICULTURAL THERAPY: CONNECTING PEOPLE AND PLANTS
Horticultural Therapy as an Effective Treatment Tool for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Substance Abuse
March 7, 2008
MSU Plant and Soil Sciences Building Auditorium
We hope everyone enjoyed this year's conference and will attend next year
2008 Seedy Character Contest Winners
This year's MHTA conference was an opportunity for those new to horticultural therapy and those striving to learn more to gain additional understanding and skills. In its 30th year, this annual program attracts professionals, volunteers, teachers, students, and gardeners. Aspects of horticultural therapy can enhance adult day services, chemical dependency treatment, children's programs, community and healing gardens, corrections, hospice, landscaping, medical care, mental health, recreation/activity therapy, and rehabilitation settings.
Mitchell Hewson, HTM, presented "Horticultural Therapy as an Effective Treatment Tool for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Substance Abuse." An inspiring and dynamic speaker, Mitchell shared first-hand experiences and practical tips from his 34 years working in psychiatry. As the first Registered Horticultural Therapist in Canada and a Registered Aromatherapist and Landscape Technologist, he developed and leads the country's largest Horticultural Therapy program at Homewood Health Centre, Inc. in Ontario. Mitchell is the author of Horticulture as Therapy: A Practical Guide to Using Horticulture as a Therapeutic Tool. If you'd like more information on Mitchell's work, please visit his website at www.horticultureastherapy.com.
The reading Mitchell Hewson, HTR read at the closing of his keynote presentation during the MHTA 30th Annual Conference was written by Brian A. "Drew" Chalker.
Breakout sessions covered a variety of topics related to HT practices including hands-on craft workshops, the 16th annual Seedy Character contest, displays, exhibits, door prizes and an optional visit to the MSU Indoor and Outdoor Children's Gardens. This popular conference is an excellent opportunity to meet people interested in HT and to learn the latest in tools, techniques, and activities. American Horticultural Therapy Association (AHTA) accreditation certificates is available to attendees.
If you'd like more information about our conferences, please contact:
Cathy Leavey, HTR, 517/332-1616 x 238, Cathy@mhtachapter.org
Betsy Brown, HTR, at Betsy@mhtachapter.org
John Murphy at 269/345-6039 - evenings
2008 SATURDAY WORKSHOP
Nurturing the Mind, Body, and Soul including Chocolate Therapy
March 8, 2008
MSU Plant and Soil Sciences Building
This practical, hands-on, two-part workshop was only available to MHTA members (non-members were encouraged to join for only $15 - membership form).
Presented by Mitchell Hewson, HTM, this workshop taught participcants how caregivers can assist in learning to nurture mind, body, and soul through the best foods, health research, environment, and bibliotherapy. The second part of this session promoted wellness through the use of chocolate therapy. A great culinary experience stimulated participants with the sights, smells, and taste of chocolate. Participants also were able to take home eight kinds of chocolate! This fun workshop taught participants how to use chocolate as therapy and provide a great avenue to generate funds for the program.
If you'd like more information about our worshops, please contact:
Cathy Leavey, HTR, 517/332-1616 x 238, Cathy@mhtachapter.org
Betsy Brown, HTR, at Betsy@mhtachapter.org
John Murphy at 269/345-6039 - evenings