Therapeutic Gardens

"In this wonderful book, Winterbottom and Wagenfeld take us on a garden journey through history, theory, empirical evidence, and practical experience. Their focus on the many varieties of human suffering—from illness to bereavement, from poverty to disability—reflects both their deep compassion, and the sweeping therapeutic potential of gardens. It’s clear that gardens are a public health strategy, one that promotes health, equity, and well-being. There is no better guide to therapeutic gardens than this book."

Howard Frumkin, M.D., Dr.P.H., Former Dean, University of Washington School of Public Health and Former Director, National Center for Environmental Health, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

"This book is a beautiful balance of design and approachable science that will be helpful for anyone interested in the intersection of garden design and healing. Through their work, the authors leave readers feeling inspired, hopeful, and eager to expand opportunities for healing through natural spaces."

Kelli Bush, Co-Director, Sustainability in Prisons Project & Evergreen Liberation Education Network, The Evergreen State College

"This volume comes at a critical time when communities are seeking ways to enable health and well-being through the design. From meeting the needs of people with autism and post-traumatic stress disorder, to reconciling with the experiences of the unhoused and those in the carceral state, the collaborative design of landscapes is presented as a means to address a litany of complex challenges. Featuring a rich diversity of grounded case studies from around the world, this book provides a strong foundation for those seeking processes and outcomes that can help us all thrive in our environments."

Kofi Boone, FASLA, Professor of Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning, NC State University

"The book is full of ideas for designing spaces that promote balance and meaning in everyday life. I cannot recommend this book highly enough."

Anita Bundy, Sc.D., OT/L, FAOTA, FOTARA, Professor and Department Head, Colorado State University

"The landscape architect and the occupational therapist form a powerful collaboration to bring together unprecedented guidance to create healing places, not just in hospital settings, but in the ordinary magic of day-to-day life through the places we live, work, rest and play."

Barbara Deutsch, FASLA, CEO, Landscape Architecture Foundation

"Spaces you will see in this book are the missing link to what is needed to help other humans find that peaceful place within themselves that rejuvenates and heals."

Deborah Jo Wofford, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Washington Department of Corrections