If you already understand the basics of PTSD (what it is, and why it develops), the next question is usually more practical: what does treatment actually involve, and which parts of it apply to you? This page focuses on the treatment options available at Hirondelle Private Hospital, from therapy and medication through to structured group programs and inpatient support.
For a fuller explanation of PTSD symptoms and causes, see our article Understanding PTSD. Here, the focus is on what treatment actually looks like.
In short: PTSD is treated at Hirondelle Private Hospital through a combination of trauma-focused psychological therapy, medication where appropriate, our structured Trauma and PTSD Support Program, and inpatient admission for people who need a higher level of care. A referral from your GP or a specialist starts the process.
There's no single fixed pathway for PTSD treatment. Following an assessment, your psychiatrist will recommend a combination of the following, based on your symptoms, history and how you're coping day to day:
trauma-focused individual psychological therapy our Trauma and PTSD Support Program, an 8-week outpatient/day group program covering sleep, grief, memory, anger and emotional regulation medication management, including antidepressants used to help with intrusive thoughts, low mood and sleep disturbance inpatient admission where symptoms need closer monitoring or stabilisation ongoing psychiatric review as treatment progresses
Antidepressants are the most commonly used medication for PTSD and are prescribed by your psychiatrist based on your specific symptoms and history. Medication is generally used alongside therapy rather than instead of it, and your treatment plan is reviewed regularly to check it's still the right fit as your symptoms change.
| Option | What it involves | Best suited to |
| Trauma and PTSD Support Program | Weekly group program run over 8 weeks, covering sleep, grief, memory, anger and emotional regulation | People who want structured group support alongside individual therapy |
| Outpatient psychiatry with group and individual therapy | Ongoing sessions without overnight hospital admission. Day admission only. | Mild to moderate symptoms that don't require 24-hour care |
| Inpatient admission | Overnight hospital admission with 24-hour support | Acute symptoms, safety concerns, or stabilisation before starting therapy |
Hirondelle Private Hospital is part of the iMH group and accredited by the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards (ACHS) against the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards. Our PTSD treatment is led by psychiatrists and delivered by a team that includes mental health nurses, psychologists and therapists, so decisions about medication, therapy and level of care are made by people who know your history, not in isolation.
Your psychiatrist stays involved throughout treatment, whether you're attending the Trauma and PTSD Support Program, or admitted for a period of inpatient care. That continuity matters for a condition like PTSD, where symptoms can shift and treatment sometimes needs to be recalibrated.
A referral from your GP or a specialist is required to begin. Once we have that referral, our Admissions Team will contact you to arrange an assessment and talk through health fund requirements or any out-of-pocket costs. Reach the team on +61 2 9411 1466 or hdl.reception@imh.com.au.
Working through trauma-related material can feel intense at times, and that's a normal part of treatment rather than a sign something is wrong. Your treating team paces sessions carefully, prioritises stabilisation before diving into difficult material, and stays available for support between sessions.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, or 000 in an emergency.
What is PTSD?
PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) is a mental health condition that can develop after a traumatic event or series of events, with symptoms including flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance and heightened reactivity. See our article Understanding PTSD for a full explanation of symptoms and causes.
What medication is used to treat PTSD?
Antidepressants are the medication most commonly used for PTSD, chosen and monitored by your psychiatrist based on your individual symptoms. Medication is typically used alongside, rather than instead of, psychological therapy.
How is PTSD medication treatment decided?
Your psychiatrist will consider your specific symptoms, medical history and any medications you've already tried, then review how you respond and adjust the plan as needed.
Do I need inpatient admission for PTSD?
Not necessarily. Many people are treated through our Trauma and PTSD Support Program . Inpatient admission is generally reserved for acute symptoms or when closer monitoring is needed.
Do I need a referral?
Yes, a referral from your GP or a specialist is required before treatment begins.
How long does PTSD treatment take?
This varies depending on your symptoms, history and how you respond to treatment. Your psychiatrist will discuss an estimated timeframe once your assessment is complete.
Understanding PTSD is one thing; knowing what treatment actually involves is another. Hirondelle Private Hospital offers trauma-focused therapy, medication management, a structured PTSD support program and inpatient care where it's needed, all coordinated by the one psychiatrist-led team. Talk to your GP about a referral, or contact our Admissions Team to find out what treatment could look like for you.
