RESEARCH
Moving into the Future: Linking Horticultural Therapy and Evidence-Based Practice
Summary
Evidence-based practice (EBP) in horticultural therapy (HT) involves using the best available research to make clinical decisions. Practitioners should assess each piece of research critically, considering its source, design, and relevance to their specific needs. Sharing knowledge and results with the professional community, and involving clients in the treatment process are also crucial parts of EBP. This includes creating treatment plans based on well-researched strategies and documenting the efficacy of these methods to contribute to the overall body of knowledge in HT.
To make research in HT useful, professionals need to ensure it is widely applicable and based on solid evidence. They should compile and disseminate their findings in a structured way, maintaining contact with researchers to guide future studies. Collaboration and repeated studies across multiple centers can strengthen the evidence supporting HT practices, ultimately leading to better treatment outcomes and stronger justification for research funding.
