Intern With
Earthtones Northwest
Rolling applications for our part-time horticultural therapy internship are open with no pre-set start date.
Candidates must be on track to complete 6 horticultural therapy credits from an American Horticultural Therapy Association accredited University or Certificate Program by the desired start date.
Horticultural Therapy Internship in Portland, Oregon
Earthtones Northwest offers an exceptional six-month, part-time internship in a dynamic, supportive learning environment. Our program is unique because it offers innovative models of supervision from our supportive team, opportunities to work in a variety of settings, and an emphasis on building a heartful practice rooted in nature-based, strengths-based, and human-centered philosophies.
Ideal candidates will demonstrate a solid foundation of horticultural skills with a passion to connect with nature, be sensitive and adaptable to the needs of clients, motivated to build a compassionate and affirming practice with a willingness for growth and expansion.
Internship Applications
Applications, letters of recommendation, and transcripts are to be emailed to our Program Director. We will respond within two weeks upon receiving your application with next steps.
Rolling applications accepted with no pre-defined start date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who will my clients be?
We work with clients of all ages and abilities. Even when our clients share similar diagnoses, we tailor our services for each individual or group, incorporating each person’s horticultural interests and abilities, strengths, desired areas of growth, and sociocultural identities. You can expect to work in individual and group settings with teens, adults, and elders with dementia, developmental disabilities and/or mental health needs. Goals commonly addressed for clients in the internship program include: experiencing the joy of interacting with and tending to plants, creative expression, cognitive stimulation, building community and connection, and leisure/enjoyment. The majority of our clientele are served in adult/elder day programs, retirement and assisted living homes, group homes, and private homes.
What is the average day like?
Your part-time internship schedule of approximately 20 hours will require roughly 2.5 work days per week and be scheduled around our clients’ sessions. You will travel to an average of 4-6 sites per week all around the Portland, OR area and meet with supervisors (some sessions and meetings are held on zoom either from intern’s home or our office.) Note that reliable transportation (a car or taxi service) is required and the bus system will not suffice to make your appointments on time. You will attend sites with our horticultural, music, or art therapists, giving you the opportunity to experience a variety of clinical and supervision styles and to be with your clients in different therapy contexts. The first month will consist of observation, later co-facilitating and, eventually, independently facilitating. In addition to your sessions, commute time, and supervision, you will have time allotted for session prep, documentation, plant care, and special projects. You may have opportunities to participate in optional weekend or evening events in the community.
Do I need to supply my own horticultural tools and supplies?
Interns are provided with a welcome kit and will have access to all necessary session materials and tools, as well as our resource library. Our facilities also house a variety of houseplants, an outdoor garden space, laminators, a Zoom studio, a variety of office supplies, and a printer. Our interns have access to the Portland Memory Garden. Each intern is welcome to utilize their own plant material or preferred tools.
What benefits do I receive as an intern?
In addition to the excellent clinical training and supervision opportunities, you will receive a $450 internship stipend ($75/month), the above listed welcome kit (valued at $150), and occasional training opportunities funded by Earthtones Northwest, when available.