FAQ
Use this helpful guide to find the answers to all your questions.
Q: What is Therapeutic Horticulture?
A: Therapeutic Horticulture is a mode of therapy which utilises plants, garden-based activities, nature and botanical art to improve physical, emotional and psychological wellbeing for people of all ages. Therapeutic Horticulture is utilised across many different sectors. Some examples include Aged Care, Disability, Rehabilitation, Occupational Therapy, Urban Planning and Greenspaces, Education, Correctional Services and Mental Health.
Q: What do I need to wear?
A: Safety is very important, so close toed shoes are required, as well as clothing that can get dirty for gardening. As we live in Victoria and can see four seasons in one day, layers of clothes that are suitable for all weather are recommended, with hats in summer and beanies in winter.
Q: Do I have to be experiencing poor mental health to participate?
A: Therapeutic Horticulture is about improving the social and emotional wellbeing of everyone. All people are welcome to attend sessions, both individual and groups, except for sessions tailored to a specific group such as family violence or age specific.
Q: What if I’m afraid of animals who live on the property?
A: There is no pressure to interact with animals on site and they can be secured away from the area if requested. Please notify Anna of any animal-related anxiety.
Q: What do I do in a session?
A: Sessions are client led and based on individual interests. If gardening isn’t your thing, there are botanical art options, or you can learn to light a campfire, cook or sit and enjoy the peace and quiet with a cup of tea. Anna can make suggestions if coming up with ideas is tricky.
Q: Where is Teesdale?
A: Teesdale is a small town about 10 minutes from Bannockburn, 25 minutes’ drive from Geelong, 50 minutes from Werribee and 50 minutes from Ballarat. The exact address is provided on confirmation of booking.
Q: Can I get to sessions via Public Transport?
A: Unfortunately, there is no public transport access. Taxis and Ubers transport people to Teesdale, but the return trip must be booked in advance due to them not being on call locally. If you reside locally, transport options may be available so please contact Anna to discuss.
Support workers, friends or family assisting with transport are welcome to attend for assistance or wait at the front of the property. Bannockburn is less than 10 minutes away, which has cafes, a supermarket and shops to visit whilst you have your session.
Q: How do I book a session?
A: Contact Anna via email synergypsychosocial@gmail.com, phone or via website link to discuss available sessions and payment options.
Q: Can I be self-referred or do I need a worker, like a case manager or support coordinator to refer me?
A: People can self-refer or be referred by workers via email. Anna is happy to collaborate with any care teams that may be supporting the person accessing the service.
Q: I have a group of colleagues or friends, and we would like to arrange a group session. How do we do this?
A: Contact Anna via website or email to discuss options and prices for groups. Prices will vary depending on inclusions such as catering, activity, number of people and length of time.
Q: Can I bring food or lunch with me?
A: People are welcome to bring food along to sessions as generally food is not provided unless prearranged catering is requested (which incurs additional costs).
Q: Will other people be on site or having therapy at the same time?
A: At times people may meet some members of Anna’s family incidentally, but during individual sessions you will be the only person on site and for group activities, the group has single use of the property.
Q: Is there toilet access on site?
A: A toilet is provided for clients to access which is attached to the shed.
Q: Are all sessions held outside? What if the weather is bad?
A: On the rare occurrence there is poor weather conditions, Anna has an indoor client space, a renovated 1970’s caravan. Wet weather activities can be conducted inside.
Q: Can I come and look before signing up?
A: People are welcome to come and visit Anna and the property to see if it is suitable for them. This can be arranged by emailing Anna to book a time.
Q: What payment options are available?
A: NDIS participants can access the service if they have capacity building funding available under the category Assessment Recommendation Therapy or Training – Other Professional 15_056_0128_1_3. Synergy can accept Plan or Self-managed clients.
Other funding options such as Family Violence Flexible Support funding can be available depending on individual circumstances and current supports.
Private sessions are available.
Persons experiencing financial hardship can contact Anna to discuss individual circumstances.
There are no Medicare rebates available for this service.
Q: How long do sessions go for and how often do I attend?
A: Generally, sessions run for two hours which allows time to relax, unwind and engage in an activity. Shorter or longer sessions are available depending on scheduling and individual needs. Sessions are available as frequently as people wish to come. There are weekly, fortnightly, monthly or casual options available.
Q: Are there after hours or weekend appointments available?
A: Weekend times are pending availability. Group wreath making workshops will be run on weekends throughout the pre-Christmas season.
Q: Can I bring my own gardening tools or gloves?
A: Clients are welcome to bring items they own or are used to; however, they must be in good working order. All required materials, safety gear and tools are provided as part of the session.
Q: What is included in my session?
A: All sessions include access to the rural setting, tea and coffee, equipment and supplies required for activities and Anna’s expertise. Options can be made available if arranged in advance, such as catering for groups, but would incur an additional cost.
Q: Is the service covered for Public Liability?
A: Yes, the service and Anna are covered for Public Liability and Professional Indemnity.
