Specialised treatment for first responders, veterans and defence personnel

Comprehensive, trauma-informed and recovery focused care in a safe and supportive environment for first responders, veterans and defence personnel struggling with PTSD, addiction and other mental health issues.  

South Coast Private Hospital is proud to be one of Australia’s leading providers of trauma-informed care for first responders, veterans and defence personnel. We understand the unique psychological, cultural and occupational challenges faced by those in high-risk service roles. Our programs are tailored to meet the specific needs of this cohort and are delivered with a service cultural awareness.  

Safe, Supportive Environment

South Coast Private offers a welcoming, hotel-like setting with private ensuite rooms on Level 3, a dedicated space for first responders, veterans and defence personnel.  The hospital provides a structured routine that allows patients to recharge and focus on recovery.

Specialised Programs

Our treatment pathways include:

Phase One Inpatient Program

Our Phase One program focuses on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom management and relapse prevention. Phase One is a three-week evidence-based inpatient program, that blends trauma focused therapy and psychoeducation to equip you with skills to aid in your recovery. This program provides the foundation for more intensive trauma processing, delivered as part of the Phase Two program.  

During your three-week stay with us, you will gain skills to help you:

• Understand the aftermath of trauma and its potential effects on your daily life.
• Practice techniques to calm the body and mind after trauma.
• Develop skills to identify and regulate emotions in an effective way.
• Learn techniques to deal with flashbacks and unwanted memories.
• Understand the balance between threat responses, drive to achieve, and self-soothing.  
• And more to assist you in your recovery journey.  

Phase Two Inpatient Program  

Our Phase Two program is available for individuals who have completed Phase One and have been assessed as suitable to participate in trauma processing. This program is delivered through a hybrid model and focuses on one-on-one therapy using Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and group sessions using Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).  

Our programs are delivered by experienced psychiatrists and psychologists who specialise in trauma recovery. Additional therapeutic activities include:

• Art and music therapy
• Yoga and body-based therapies
• Guided walks and surfing programs
• Dietitian and exercise physiology support
• Onsite gym and meditation sessions.

Day programs

Our day programs are delivered in a group setting with some groups offered exclusively for first responders, veterans and defence personnel. Virtual day programs are available for regional and interstate patients.

Day programs are suitable:

• Following an inpatient admission to help you to transition from your hospital stay back to daily life whilst still providing you with support and the opportunity to connect with others in a group setting.  
• If you have experienced trauma, are grappling with PTSD and seeking practical strategies and support, and where an inpatient admission is not clinically required. 

Access and Referrals

We understand that timely admission is vital. We offer rapid access admission (within 48 hours for admissions Monday to Friday) and prioritised psychiatric review.  

Our admission and assessment team is available to guide patients, families and GPs through the referral process and answer any questions.