Accessing Treatment at Ashburn
Ashburn Clinic provides treatment for individuals who are referred by a health professional. Funding may be available through ACC or Health New Zealand. In these cases, patients typically stay for several months, and in some instances, up to two years.
Referrals are made at the discretion of both the referring clinician and the funding body. If you are paying privately, you will still need a referral from a health professional before being considered.
Ashburn Clinic is an independent Democratic Therapeutic Community and psychiatric hospital providing inpatient assessment and treatment for people with major mental health disorders and addictions. These are predominantly people with depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, significant personality disorders, post-traumatic stress including sexual abuse and trauma, addictions and substance use, and life crises.
Our Gwen Wilson and Frank Hay units provide 24-hour nursing care and clinical support, and a patient’s stay is generally long-term. Patients participate in the core therapeutic programme, as well as specialist groups and support services suited to their needs, such as eating disorders and substance addiction. In addition to any necessary medical support, therapeutic services are provided by nurses, psychiatrists, psychotherapists, occupational therapists and a dietitian.
As patients progress to wellness, they may transition into Alexander House, where independent living is encouraged while staying connected to the Democratic Therapeutic Community.
Before Admission
We work closely with the referring clinician or funder to check whether Ashburn is the right place for treatment. This pre-admission process can take some time, but once suitability is confirmed, an admission date will be offered through the referring clinician or funder.
As part of this process:
- The prospective patient will be contacted to discuss the referral, their thoughts about coming to Ashburn, and any other relevant matters.
- Senior clinical staff will be available to answer questions and talk through treatment goals with the referring clinician, patient and/or their whānau.
- For privately funded referrals, Ashburn staff will speak directly with the patient and their nominated whānau.