ABSTRACT

When planning to work with clients, horticultural therapists, like other professionals, must incorporate current knowledge of research pertaining to the client; the client’s condition, diagnosis, or circumstances; and best practices for treatment approach. This chapter establishes the importance of using evidence to inform practice for professionalism and to advance the field of horticultural therapy. It also includes basic methods to judge the quality of research by critical appraisal and determining levels of evidence. The ideal model for practice is to combine a thorough knowledge of research findings with the experiences of the horticultural therapist, as well as the preferences and circumstances of the client served. The steps needed to incorporate evidence-based practice are outlined, in addition to the questions asked when considering the relevance of research articles. How research informs practice and program development, and its role in enabling the horticultural therapist to address the needs of clients effectively and professionally, are discussed.