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Medicine Assisted Psychotherapy

Combining therapy and medication to treat emotional and biochemical aspects of mental health."

Welcome to Health Buddies AU

At Health Buddies, we provide a compassionate and comprehensive approach to mental health care through medicine-assisted psychotherapy. In today’s complex world, mental health challenges can significantly impact various aspects of life, including personal relationships and professional achievements.

Our clinic recognizes the uniqueness of each individual’s journey, which is why we have integrated medicine-assisted psychotherapy into our holistic treatment offerings.

psychologist-consulting-patient

What is Medicine-Assisted Psychotherapy?

Medicine-assisted psychotherapy is an innovative and evidence-based approach that combines the therapeutic benefits of psychotherapy with the supportive use of specific medications.

This dual approach aims to enhance the effectiveness of traditional therapy by addressing both the psychological and biochemical facets of mental health disorders.

Our clinic recognizes the uniqueness of each individual’s journey, which is why we have integrated medicine-assisted psychotherapy into our holistic treatment offerings.

Medicine Assisted Psychotherapy

Benefits of Medicine-Assisted Psychotherapy

Medication-assisted psychotherapy has demonstrated potential in treating chronic depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Research has found that this unique therapeutic approach is not only safe but also efficacious for people experiencing treatment-resistant depression or PTSD.

It has been demonstrated that participants use their inner healing strength to experience a positive shift in their ability to connect to their inner and outer world. The therapy enhances their self-compassion and provides new perspectives and insights into their mental health issues.

Medicine Assisted Psychotherapy

Our Approach

Our dedicated team of experienced psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists work collaboratively to tailor personalized treatment plans that meet the unique needs of each patient.

This integrative method allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the underlying issues, fostering deeper healing and promoting overall well-being.

Medicine Assisted Psychotherapy

Our Commitment

At Health Buddies, we are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and stigma-free environment where patients can embark on their path to recovery and personal growth.

Our goal is not just symptom management, but empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives enriched by self-awareness and emotional resilience.

Medicine Assisted Psychotherapy

How it Works

Booking Your Assessment

To begin the program, you must first obtain a referral from your general practitioner or treating psychiatrist and then make contact with our service. Our program coordinator will then reach out to you to discuss the program, including costs, and answer any questions you may have. The next step is to schedule a screening assessment with both a psychologist and the prescribing psychiatrist.

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Screening and assessment

Our priority is to ensure your safety and determine if this therapeutic program is a suitable option for you. The screening and assessment process involves a comprehensive psychological interview, medical screening, psychometric questionnaires, and an assessment with the prescribing psychiatrist. With your consent, we will collaborate closely with your existing treating team. This is a holistic assessment conducted over several weeks, designed to understand your medical, social, and psychological history and to ascertain if the program aligns with your recovery goals.

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Preparation sessions

You will be supported by two experienced therapists throughout the program, under the supervision of a prescribing psychiatrist. A minimum of three preparation sessions are conducted either in-person or via telehealth before the initial medicine dosing session. These sessions are designed to explore your reasons for seeking treatment, establish a suitable mindset for the medicine experience, set intentions, clarify expectations, and build a strong therapeutic relationship.

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Medicine dosing sessions

The program includes three medicine dosing sessions over 12 weeks or more. Each session is conducted on-site at our accredited Day Hospital (Health Buddies) at 578 Springvale Road, Springvale South, Melbourne. You will be in a private purpose-build therapy room, accompanied by your therapy team, with medical and nursing staff available at all times. These sessions are best viewed as multi-day experiences, and we recommend maintaining a light schedule with ample time for rest in the days that follow. We welcome clients from anywhere in Australia and overseas.

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Integration sessions

Following each dosing session, you will have three integration sessions with your therapist. These sessions are designed to help you process the experience and any insights gained. The sessions are personalised to help you find meaning in your experience and apply it towards your ongoing healing and recovery from trauma or depression. Towards the end of your treatment, your therapist and prescriber will collaborate with you to create a personalised ongoing integration plan.

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Group Integration Program

As medicine-assisted psychotherapy is a profound experience, connecting with others who have undergone the same treatment can be beneficial. “Health buddies” provide an online support group facilitated by a therapist and a peer with lived experience. 

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      – Personalized Plans: We focus on creating individualized support plans that align with the goals and aspirations of each participant.

      – Comprehensive Reports: Our assessments include detailed reports that simplify the NDIS planning process and ensure all necessary supports are addressed.

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