Embracing Change Through Therapeutic Horticulture

Oct 19 2025
Expired!
10:00 am - 11:30 am

Event Details


Oct 19 2025
Expired!
10:00 am - 11:30 am
Location
Peirce Education Rooms (Welcome Center)
Peirce Education Rooms
  • Members $45
  • Nonmembers $55

Just like in nature, people are constantly going through change. However, certain changes can cause an overwhelm of emotions. During this hands-on program, participants will learn how to embrace and handle change by taking inspiration from a transitional season: autumn. Instructors Gina Walter, Education Manager, and Ben Rainey, LCSW, will lead hands-on horticultural activities that will help participants process this human experience. The instructors will share coping techniques, facilitate group discussion, and give time to reflect outside in the Garden. Whether you have recently moved, lost a job, or are grieving a loved one, this program will meet participants where they are in their journey and support their needs in a welcoming group atmosphere. Participants will walk away better connected to themselves, others, and nature.

Speakers

  • Ben Rainey
    Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Therapist

    Ben Rainey, LCSW is a Pittsburgh-area therapist doing virtual therapy, in-office therapy, and hiking therapy, and working with clients on a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, major life changes, and grief and loss. Before becoming a therapist, Ben worked as a freelance musician and educator.

  • Gina Walter
    Education Manager

    Gina Walter is the Garden’s Education Manager and has a background in landscape architecture and horticultural therapy. Gina loves showing children the wonders of nature. In her free time, Gina enjoys caring for her indoor plants and exploring outside with her dog.

Just like in nature, people are constantly going through change. However, certain changes can cause an overwhelm of emotions. During this hands-on program, participants will learn how to embrace and handle change by taking inspiration from a transitional season: autumn. Instructors Gina Walter, Education Manager, and Ben Rainey, LCSW, will lead hands-on horticultural activities that will help participants process this human experience. The instructors will share coping techniques, facilitate group discussion, and give time to reflect outside in the Garden. Whether you have recently moved, lost a job, or are grieving a loved one, this program will meet participants where they are in their journey and support their needs in a welcoming group atmosphere. Participants will walk away better connected to themselves, others, and nature.

Speakers

  • Ben Rainey
    Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Therapist

    Ben Rainey, LCSW is a Pittsburgh-area therapist doing virtual therapy, in-office therapy, and hiking therapy, and working with clients on a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, major life changes, and grief and loss. Before becoming a therapist, Ben worked as a freelance musician and educator.

  • Gina Walter
    Education Manager

    Gina Walter is the Garden’s Education Manager and has a background in landscape architecture and horticultural therapy. Gina loves showing children the wonders of nature. In her free time, Gina enjoys caring for her indoor plants and exploring outside with her dog.

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