What is the process for coming to the Clinic?
You need to get a letter of referral from a GP first. Your GP may fax the letter directly to the Clinic. You should then phone us on 6247 9960 to book in.
If you or your loved one require urgent treatment, you can go to a GP for a referral to The Hobart Clinic, or to the Emergency department of a hospital, or call an ambulance.
How do I get a referral?
Make an appointment to see your general practitioner (GP). Talk to them about your concerns and how you think The Hobart Clinic might be helpful.
Do I need private health insurance?
Yes. If you have private hospital cover, most health funds will pay the entire cost of our services.
Young adults up to age 25 are often covered by a parent’s health insurance. You can find out from your health fund.
Our administration are happy to assist in checking eligibility.
How long will I stay in the Clinic?
If you need to stay, most stays are two or three weeks, based on individual needs. Our team will work with you until you are coping better.
What will happen when I arrive?
We will arrange a physical health check with our Medical Officer and a mental health assessment with one of our psychiatrists. You can talk about your situation with them to work out an individual plan for your treatment and support.
How often will I talk with a psychiatrist?
Depending on what you both feel your needs are, you may see your psychiatrist every day in the beginning of a residential stay. At a minimum, you will have time with a psychiatrist at least twice a week.
What therapy is available?
To see what therapy we offer, please go to the Treatment services page.
Do I have to take part in group therapy?
It is advisable that you make the most of your therapy by participating in small group work. If this is a challenge for you, there is no need to start before you feel ready, as our clinical staff will be available for support and counseling.
What do the Day programs involve?
A typical program may include daily groups facilitated by nurses and other therapists. These groups are a mix of education, support and relaxation therapies.
Topics include assertiveness, goal setting, lifestyle modifications and problem solving; Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (retraining your thinking); relaxation training and practise; and complementary therapies such as art, yoga or tai chi, and massage.
You will also have a psychiatrist to look after any medication or medical therapies.
How long can I attend a Day program?
For as many weeks as you need to. Most health funds do not place a limit on how long you can attend and will pay the full cost of our services.
How do I get into a Day program?
Ask your GP for a referral, then phone The Hobart Clinic on 6247 9960.
Can I or my loved one check out?
Yes, as admission to The Hobart Clinic is voluntary. For people needing a higher level of containment, we will refer you to the Royal Hobart Hospital, until you are settled enough to return to or come to the Clinic.
What will I do while I am staying at the Clinic?
As well as receiving medical treatment and participating in therapy sessions, a stay helps you to develop calming, healthy routines for yourself.
Our in-house chefs make tasty, nutritious breakfast and hot lunches and dinners every day. Part of the benefit of a residential stay includes helping you settle into regular patterns of eating and sleeping.
You can see visitors if you feel well enough, have a walk or sit outside in our gardens, read, watch TV or movies, enjoy some art therapy, massage or reflexology, or gentle exercise with yoga or tai chi.
When can my family or friends visit me?
Family, carers and friends are welcome to visit inpatients in their rooms, in our communal lounge, or for a quiet walk in our extensive gardens.
Visiting hours allow our residents to attend their therapy programs. Visiting hours are:
- 3pm to 8pm, Monday - Friday
- 10am to 8pm, Saturday and Sunday
If you need to visit outside these hours, please contact Clinic staff on 6247 9960.
Can I make an appointment with a Hobart Clinic psychiatrist?
Yes. You do not have to be staying at the Clinic or enrolled in a Day program to make an appointment. To make an appointment you must first have a referral from a general practitioner. Ask your GP for a referral to a Hobart Clinic psychiatrist, then call us on 6247 9960 for an appointment. Bring the referral letter with you to your appointment, or your GP may fax it directly.
Where is the Hobart Clinic?
Details are on our Locations page.
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