Living with the effects of trauma can impact sleep, relationships, mood, concentration and everyday life. For current and former Australian Defence Force personnel, police, firefighters and paramedics, these experiences can also be closely connected to the unique demands and pressures of service.
Deakin Private Hospital’s PTSD & Trauma Support Unit provides a safe, structured and supportive inpatient environment where you can step away from day-to-day pressures and focus on your recovery.
Our 12-bed program is specifically designed for current and former ADF members and first responders. Care is provided by a multidisciplinary team with experience in trauma and mental health, with treatment tailored to your individual needs, experiences and recovery goals.
The program supports current and former members of the Australian Defence Force, police, firefighters and paramedics experiencing PTSD or other impacts of trauma.
We understand that everyone’s experience is different. You do not need to be ready to talk in detail about what has happened to benefit from admission. Your treating team will work with you to understand what you are experiencing, what you would like to achieve and what support feels appropriate for you.
Your admission is focused on helping you better understand and manage the impact trauma is having on your life. Depending on your individual needs, treatment may include:
Your care is individualised, and you will work with your treating team to develop goals that are meaningful and achievable for you.
A range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches may be incorporated into your care.
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) may be available for patients who are clinically assessed as suitable and ready for this type of therapy. EMDR is not an automatic component of admission, and not everyone will require nor be suitable for EMDR.
Other approaches may include Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and therapeutic interventions focused on understanding trauma, developing coping strategies, emotional regulation and recovery.
Your treating team will discuss the available options with you and recommend an approach based on your individual circumstances, readiness and treatment goals.
The program is delivered within a dedicated 12-bed inpatient unit at Deakin Private Hospital.
We aim to provide an environment where you feel safe, respected and understood. Your care is overseen by a psychiatrist and supported by nursing and allied health clinicians with experience in mental health and trauma-informed care.
Treatment is structured but individualised. Your admission may look different from someone else's because your needs, experiences and goals are your own.
Do I need a referral?
Yes. A referral from your GP or treating psychiatrist is required for admission. Our Admissions Team can help you understand the process.
Do I have to participate in EMDR?
No. EMDR is only one of the therapeutic options that may be available. If EMDR is being considered, you will first be assessed to determine whether it is clinically appropriate and suitable for you.
What if I am not ready to talk about what happened?
That is okay. Trauma recovery does not begin with having to tell your whole story. Your team can work with you on safety, coping strategies, emotional regulation and other recovery goals at a pace appropriate for you.
Can I access the program while still serving?
Yes, depending on your individual circumstances and referral. Our Admissions Team can talk you through the options available.
If trauma is affecting your sleep, relationships, work or everyday life, you do not have to manage it alone. Our team can talk with you confidentially about the program, what an admission involves and whether it may be suitable for your needs.
Contact the Deakin Private Hospital Admissions Team on 1800 961 391 or speak with your GP or treating psychiatrist about a referral.
