PTSD & Trauma Support Unit
Deakin Private Hospital is proud to announce the launch of our Specialised PTSD & Trauma Support Unit for military and first responders.
Our 12 single premium rooms are designed to provide a comfortable and private space for our patients to recover. The unit also features a basketball court, outdoor space, gym, comfortable lounge area, and chill-out space to help our patients relax and unwind.
Our inpatient program is designed to provide comprehensive care to our patients. We focus on educating our patients about trauma and PTSD, managing and dealing with emotions and behaviours, developing skills to improve communication and manage relationships, assisting patients to manage symptoms of depression and anxiety, learning to manage problems associated with alcohol and other drugs, and learning strategies to improve sleep and overall physical health. Our patients will also have access to day programs and 12-week follow-up on discharge from the hospital.
Our team of experts includes consultant psychiatrists, care coordinators, mental health nurses, allied health professionals and an exercise physiologist. We are committed to providing the best possible care to our patients and helping them recover from their trauma. Our team of experts provides compassionate care to our patients and helping them get back to their lives.
We understand that PTSD and trauma can be challenging to deal with, and we are here to help. If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD or trauma, please reach out to us. We are here to help you.
Dr Julie Simes-Phillipps
Psychiatrist and Lead for the PTSD / Trauma Unit for Military & First Responders
With more than 20 years in the Australian Defence Force, Dr Julie brings expertise in trauma and PTSD to her role at Deakin Private Hospital. In February 2025, Dr Julie established the hospital’s 12-bed PTSD ward, BEECHES, and has been leading its development since. Drawing on a diverse clinical background, her focus is on biopsychosocial approaches around recovery lifestyle psychiatry that extend beyond discharge.
Lana Barrett
Clinical Nurse Consultant
Lana Barrett is a Clinical Nurse Consultant in Mental Health with a career focus in the field since 2014. A former serving member of the Australian Army, she has held senior roles including After Hours Nurse Manager at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Nurse Unit Manager, Nurse Educator, and Seasonal Academic at QUT. Lana is deeply committed to supporting defence personnel, veterans, and their families — a passion shaped both by her professional focus and her husband’s ongoing service in the Australian Defence Force.
Now accepting referrals.
We are now accepting referrals. Submit a GP/Specialist referral below or an online enquiry for more information.
Referrals and inquiries can be directed to:
📧: dkn.admissions@imh.com.au
📞: 02 5114 8100
📠: 02 5114 8399