Looking for our VicRoads Driver Behaviour Change Programs? Please click here.
This page is for people working with people adults and young people experiencing alcohol and other drug harms, family violence, mental health challenges and social disadvantage. You can also see our Getting Help and Information for family and friends pages.
This page provides information for:
- Legal representatives and justice system workers (including lawyers, legal aid, Legal Officers, Parole and Probation Officers, Youth Justice Workers, Case Officers, Magistrates)
- Medical professionals (including GPs, nurses, allied health professionals, people working with diverse communities)
- People working in community services (including Alcohol and Other Drug Workers, Social Workers, Youth Workers, Family Workers, NDIS Workers)
Accessing Windana Youth services
Windana Youth Community House is a residential withdrawal program for young people up to 25 in Dandenong. This 6-bed facility hosts clients for a 7-10 day withdrawal/detox program. Participants receive medical oversight from an addiction medicine specialist, nursing and psychological support, case work support to help residents work towards their goals, education groups in harm reduction, relapse prevention and stress management and more. Client can self-refer through DirectLine on 1800 888 236 (available 24/7) or visit www.directline.org.au. GPs and other workers can refer clients directly to this service at with a comprehensive AOD assessment and GP patient health summary (if available).
Youth alcohol and other drug outreach supports young people aged 12-25 to address any drug or alcohol misuse issues. Our workers operate in an outreach capacity in the Cities of Port Phillip, Stonnington, Glen Eira, Bayside, and Kingston. Anyone can refer, with client consent at or call us on 03 9532 0811.
ResetLife Youth is an intensive out-patient program for young people aged 11 to 25, operating from Moorabbin and Frankston. Young people attend 3 days per week of formal treatment for 16 weeks, followed by 36 weeks of continuing care involving social support activities. Anyone can refer, with participant consent at or on 03 9532 0811.
SMART Recovery is a group support program helping participants change unhealthy behaviours around alcohol and other drugs, gambling, and other concerns. 60 to 90-minute groups held weekly for people 18 and over in Cranbourne, women 18 and over at Bentleigh and for young people 25 and under in Frankston and Moorabbin. No referral required.
Navigator supports school-aged young people 12-17 to reconnect with formal education. Navigator participants have attended school less than 30% of a previous term or have been severely disengaged from school for at least one term. Anyone can refer, with the young person’s parent/carer’s consent via the online form here: https://surveyapac.deloitte.com/jfe/form/SV_cBJldtHIUE7thpI. Referrers can visit the Department of Education website for up-to-date information on Navigator, including:
- Process for school staff referring a young person to Navigator
- Process for parents or carers who wish to refer their child or young person to Navigator
- Process for other people who wish to refer a young person to Navigator
PIVOT works with young people in the Cities of Greater Dandenong, Casey and Frankston aged 10 – 23, to increase protective factors, community connectedness and sustained engagement in school, training and employment. A voluntary program, participants are young people aged 10 – 23 who are in frequent contact with statutory services (Victoria Police, Youth Justice, Community Correctional Services and/or Child Protection). Referrals for PIVOT can only be made through Victoria Police, Youth Justice or Community Correctional Services.
DETOURS is a group diversion program aiming to reduce unsafe and illegal driving and passenger behaviour. DETOURS is for young people aged 14 – 18 who have charges related to traffic/motor vehicle offending and are completing a Children’s Court Youth Diversion plan or have been identified as being at risk of engaging in such unsafe road user behaviour by Victoria Police. To find out more email or call 9532 3478.
Accessing Windana's adult alcohol and other drug services
Adult residential detox (Drug Withdrawal House) is a residential withdrawal program for adults 18 and above in St Kilda. This 15-bed facility hosts clients for a 7-11 day withdrawal/detox program. Participants receive medical oversight from an addiction medicine specialist, nursing and psychological support, case work support to help residents work towards their goals, education groups in harm reduction, relapse prevention and stress management and more. Client can self-refer through DirectLine on 1800 888 236 (available 24/7) or visit www.directline.org.au. GPs and other workers can refer clients directly to this service at with a comprehensive AOD assessment and GP patient health summary (if available).
Detox at home (Non-Residential Withdrawal Service), supporting clients through withdrawal/detox at their own homes. A 14-day program, clients receive daily visits from a Registered Nurse and medical oversight from their own GP, as well as support from their local pharmacy for daily medication. For clients 18 and above in the cities of Port Phillip, Stonnington, Glen Eira, Bayside, Kingston, Frankston, Mornington Peninsula, Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia. Client can self-refer through DirectLine on 1800 888 236 (available 24/7) or visit www.directline.org.au. GPs and other workers can refer clients directly to this service at with a comprehensive AOD assessment and GP patient health summary (if available).
Windana operate three residential rehabilitation centres (therapeutic communities) where clients live for three (Grampians), six (Barwon) or nine (Maryknoll) months. Highly structured supports include:
- Case management and support services
- Educational and therapeutic group sessions to support mental and physical health and recovery (including relapse prevention, stress management, non-violent communication)
- Art and writing groups
- Naturopathy (a complementary therapy involving herbal and nutritional supplements)
- Nutrition program (Food as Medicine)
- Community programs such as Landcare and optional team sport
- Exercise and recreation
- Medical and nursing management
- Slow-stream pharmacotherapy reduction from Suboxone and Methadone is available.
Our therapeutic communities are for people 18 and over who have completed a withdrawal program. Referral through DirectLine on 1800 888 236 (available 24/7) or visit www.directline.org.au
Click for more information about:
ResetLife Adult is an intensive out-patient program for adults 18 and over, operating from Cranbourne. Participants attend 3 days per week of formal treatment for 16 weeks, followed by 36 weeks of continuing care involving social support activities. Anyone can refer, with participant consent at or on 03 9532 0811.
Alcohol and other drug counselling for adults, offering one-on-one support. Referrals via DirectLine on 1800 888 236 (available 24/7) or visit www.directline.org.au. Forensic counselling is available via ACSO brokerage.
Care and Recovery Coordination (CRC) is an alcohol and other drug case management program, supporting adults by coordinating all the services they need including health, legal, housing and more. Referrals via DirectLine on 1800 888 236 (available 24/7) or visit www.directline.org.au. Forensic CRC is available via ACSO brokerage.
GP Assist supports GPs to refer their patients to alcohol and other drug treatment. GPs complete a screening (or we can complete it for them) and send the result to us, and we provide brief interventions and bridging support while the client is waiting to access longer-term treatment. Referrals from GPs only at
The First Peoples’ Healing Program supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 16 to 55 and/or their immediate family, around concerns related to alcohol and other drug misuse. a wraparound service with a cultural lens this program acknowledges the social and emotional wellbeing of each participant and supports their connection to self, Mob and Country. Anyone can refer, with participant consent at or on 03 9532 0811.
SMART Recovery is a group support program helping participants change unhealthy behaviours around alcohol and other drugs, gambling, and other concerns. 60 to 90-minute groups held weekly for people 18 and over in Cranbourne, women 18 and over at Bentleigh and for young people 25 and under in Frankston and Moorabbin. No referral required.
Peer Support Group takes place each Monday at our St Kilda site from 1:00 – 2:30 PM. Facilitated by a trained and experienced peer leader, people with lived experience of alcohol and other drug use meet to talk about the things that affect them, learn from others, find common ground and encourage their peers to make positive changes. No referral required but participants are requested to please contact us on 03 9529 7955 or at before attending their first meeting.
CHOICES is a three-hour group program for people involved with Community Correctional Services who have been assessed as low-risk offenders, aiming to challenge the link between substance misuse and criminal offending. Available via ACSO brokerage only.
KickStart is an 8 or 15-week group program for men in the justice system assessed as medium-high risk offenders, aiming to challenge the link between substance misuse and criminal offending. Available via ACSO brokerage only.
Accessing our education and employment programs
VicRoads accredited Behaviour Change Programs for people charged with a drink or drug driving offence. We deliver Drink Driver, Drug Driver and Intensive Drink and Drug Driver programs, a Pre-Interlock Removal program, and AOD Specialist reports. Anyone can book in online here.
Accessing Windana's family services
The Family Program helps parents engaged with AOD treatment to strengthening parenting capacity and family functioning. We offer single session consults as well as the six-week Tuning into Kids program which builds parents and carers skills in recognising, understanding and managing their own and their children’s emotions. Client can self-refer through DirectLine on 1800 888 236 (available 24/7) or visit www.directline.org.au. GPs and other workers can refer clients directly to this service at with a comprehensive AOD assessment and GP patient health summary (if available).
The Family Reunification Program supports parents who are required to complete alcohol and other drug treatment as part of a Family Reunification or Interim Accommodation court order. in the Bayside (cities of Port Phillip, Stonnington, Glen Eira, Bayside and Kingston) and Frankston-Mornington Peninsula regions. We work towards parent’s alcohol and other drug goals as well as address any other complexities including family violence, mental health and more. Bayside clients can self-refer via through Bayside Integrated Services on 1800 229 263. Frankston clients can self-refer via Peninsula Health Intake on 1300 665 781. Child Protection can refer directly to
Engaging Families helps families in Cardinia who experience family violence and substance misuse or mental health issues to access counselling services, case management, and parenting supports. Anyone can refer via Windermere here or on 1300 946 337
Information for workers
Clients with criminal convictions/on bail (forensic clients)
We accept forensic referrals and consider the factors (including nature of a crime, and type of service requested) that determine if Windana can offer a safe and appropriate environment for a particular client.
For our residential rehabilitation programs, we are generally unable to accept new residents who have court dates in the next two months.
Providing information to courts
We may provide Courts with information when it is requested in line with the relevant Act or Acts.
Justice and sentencing schemes
We may be able to sponsor people involved with the Work and Development Permit Scheme or Spent Convictions Scheme.
Lawyer collaboration
In our residential rehabilitation programs, a resident’s main worker can work with legal representatives towards positive outcomes for the resident’s legal matters.
Where can my client get more information about Windana?
Your client can find out more by visiting the Getting help page of our website or by calling us on 03 9523 7955 Monday to Friday, between 9.00am and 4:30pm.
Your client can also contact DirectLine or their catchment Intake and Assessment service for information about Windana and other public alcohol and other drug services in Victoria.
Do clients need to pay for treatment?
Some of our services are free for the client, while others have a nominal daily amenities fee or require ongoing client co-payment (usually paid as a portion of the client’s Centrelink benefit.) Check an individual service page for details of fees.
Is Windana a public service?
We are a not-for-profit, for-purpose organisation that forms part of Victoria’s public alcohol and other drug treatment system.
What are the wait times for Windana?
Wait times vary by service and change often. Please call Reception on 03 9529 7955 for the most up-to-date waiting time.
What is the difference between withdrawal (detox) and rehabilitation programs?
Withdrawal programs support clients to withdraw from alcohol and/or other drugs in a safe environment, usually over a period of two weeks or less. Rehabilitation programs involve a longer process of creating lasting behavioural change, addressing dependence on substances and building supportive links in the community for ongoing stability.
Is Windana suitable for people with Dual Diagnosis (co-occurring mental health and alcohol/drug issues)?
We are an inclusive organisation and welcome people with diverse mental health experiences and conditions. Mental health supports are embedded across Windana and staff work collaboratively with community mental health services. Before a client is admitted to Windana, a comprehensive assessment process determines whether we are the right service for their unique needs – including mental health.
What supports are available once a program is completed?
Across our services, we aim to connect clients to supports for their ongoing journey after a particular program ends. This depends on an individual’s needs and goals but can include housing, medical, family, employment and other alcohol/drug services in their local communities.
Residents who have been through a residential rehabilitation program also have access to the Aftercare program and Peer Support groups.
- Drug facts by substance (Australian Drug Foundation)
- Factsheets about research, stigma and harm reduction (Australian Drug Foundation)
- Alcohol and other drug withdrawal guidelines (Turning Point)
- Factsheets for GPs on treatment (Drug and Alcohol Clinical Advisory Service)
- Screening and assessment tools (Turning Point)
- List of catchment Intake and Assessment providers (Better Health Channel)
- Links to alcohol and other drug courses (Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association Inc.)
- Australia’s Take Home Naloxone (opioid overdose prevention) program (Dept. Health and Aged Care)
- ‘The Power of Words’ guide for professional AOD conversations (Australian Drug Foundation)
My client or patient needs support.
This page is for people working with people adults and young people experiencing alcohol and other drug harms, family violence, mental health challenges and social disadvantage. You can also see our Getting Help and Information for family and friends pages.
This page provides information for:
- Legal representatives and justice system workers (including lawyers, legal aid, Legal Officers, Parole and Probation Officers, Youth Justice Workers, Case Officers, Magistrates)
- Medical professionals (including GPs, nurses, allied health professionals, people working with diverse communities)
- People working in community services (including Alcohol and Other Drug Workers, Social Workers, Youth Workers, Family Workers, NDIS Workers)
Accessing Windana Youth services.
Windana Youth Community House (Detox for young people)Windana Youth Community House is a residential withdrawal program for young people up to 25 in Dandenong. This 6-bed facility hosts clients for a 7-10 day withdrawal/detox program. Participants receive medical oversight from an addiction medicine specialist, nursing and psychological support, case work support to help residents work towards their goals, education groups in harm reduction, relapse prevention and stress management and more. Client can self-refer through DirectLine on 1800 888 236 (available 24/7) or visit www.directline.org.au. GPs and other workers can refer clients directly to this service at with a comprehensive AOD assessment and GP patient health summary (if available).
Click here for more info about the program.
Youth alcohol and other drug outreachYouth alcohol and other drug outreach supports young people aged 12-25 to address any drug or alcohol misuse issues. Our workers operate in an outreach capacity in the Cities of Port Phillip, Stonnington, Glen Eira, Bayside, and Kingston. Anyone can refer, with client consent at or call us on 03 9532 0811.
Click here for more info about the program.
ResetLife YouthResetLife Youth is an intensive out-patient program for young people aged 11 to 25, operating from Moorabbin and Frankston. Young people attend 3 days per week of formal treatment for 16 weeks, followed by 36 weeks of continuing care involving social support activities. Anyone can refer, with participant consent at or on 03 9532 0811.
Click here for more info about the program.
SMART RecoverySMART Recovery is a group support program helping participants change unhealthy behaviours around alcohol and other drugs, gambling, and other concerns. 60 to 90-minute groups held weekly for people 18 and over in Cranbourne, women 18 and over at Bentleigh and for young people 25 and under in Frankston and Moorabbin. No referral required.
Times, locations and more info available here.
NavigatorNavigator supports school-aged young people 12-17 to reconnect with formal education. Navigator participants have attended school less than 30% of a previous term or have been severely disengaged from school for at least one term. Anyone can refer, with the young person’s parent/carer’s consent via the online form here: https://surveyapac.deloitte.com/jfe/form/SV_cBJldtHIUE7thpI. Referrers can visit the Department of Education website for up-to-date information on Navigator, including:
- Process for school staff referring a young person to Navigator
- Process for parents or carers who wish to refer their child or young person to Navigator
- Process for other people who wish to refer a young person to Navigator
Click here for more info about the program.
PIVOT youth crime prevention programPIVOT works with young people in the Cities of Greater Dandenong, Casey and Frankston aged 10 – 23, to increase protective factors, community connectedness and sustained engagement in school, training and employment. A voluntary program, participants are young people aged 10 – 23 who are in frequent contact with statutory services (Victoria Police, Youth Justice, Community Correctional Services and/or Child Protection). Referrals for PIVOT can only be made through Victoria Police, Youth Justice or Community Correctional Services.
Click here for more info about the program.
DETOURSDETOURS is a group diversion program aiming to reduce unsafe and illegal driving and passenger behaviour. DETOURS is for young people aged 14 – 18 who have charges related to traffic/motor vehicle offending and are completing a Children’s Court Youth Diversion plan or have been identified as being at risk of engaging in such unsafe road user behaviour by Victoria Police. To find out more email or call 9532 3478.
Click here for more info about the program.
Accessing Windana's adult alcohol and other drug services.
Adult residential detoxAdult residential detox (Drug Withdrawal House) is a residential withdrawal program for adults 18 and above in St Kilda. This 15-bed facility hosts clients for a 7-11 day withdrawal/detox program. Participants receive medical oversight from an addiction medicine specialist, nursing and psychological support, case work support to help residents work towards their goals, education groups in harm reduction, relapse prevention and stress management and more. Client can self-refer through DirectLine on 1800 888 236 (available 24/7) or visit www.directline.org.au. GPs and other workers can refer clients directly to this service at with a comprehensive AOD assessment and GP patient health summary (if available).
Click here for more info about the program.
Detox at homeDetox at home (Non-Residential Withdrawal Service), supporting clients through withdrawal/detox at their own homes. A 14-day program, clients receive daily visits from a Registered Nurse and medical oversight from their own GP, as well as support from their local pharmacy for daily medication. For clients 18 and above in the cities of Port Phillip, Stonnington, Glen Eira, Bayside, Kingston, Frankston, Mornington Peninsula, Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia. Client can self-refer through DirectLine on 1800 888 236 (available 24/7) or visit www.directline.org.au. GPs and other workers can refer clients directly to this service at with a comprehensive AOD assessment and GP patient health summary (if available).
Click here for more info about the program.
Residential rehabilitationWindana operate three residential rehabilitation centres (therapeutic communities) where clients live for three (Grampians), six (Barwon) or nine (Maryknoll) months. Highly structured supports include:
- Case management and support services
- Educational and therapeutic group sessions to support mental and physical health and recovery (including relapse prevention, stress management, non-violent communication)
- Art and writing groups
- Naturopathy (a complementary therapy involving herbal and nutritional supplements)
- Nutrition program (Food as Medicine)
- Community programs such as Landcare and optional team sport
- Exercise and recreation
- Medical and nursing management
- Slow-stream pharmacotherapy reduction from Suboxone and Methadone is available.
Our therapeutic communities are for people 18 and over who have completed a withdrawal program. Referral through DirectLine on 1800 888 236 (available 24/7) or visit www.directline.org.au
Click for more information about:
ResetLife AdultResetLife Adult is an intensive out-patient program for adults 18 and over, operating from Cranbourne. Participants attend 3 days per week of formal treatment for 16 weeks, followed by 36 weeks of continuing care involving social support activities. Anyone can refer, with participant consent at or on 03 9532 0811.
Click here for more info about the program.
Alcohol and other drug counsellingAlcohol and other drug counselling for adults, offering one-on-one support. Referrals via DirectLine on 1800 888 236 (available 24/7) or visit www.directline.org.au. Forensic counselling is available via ACSO brokerage.
Click here for more info about the program.
Care and Recovery CoordinationCare and Recovery Coordination (CRC) is an alcohol and other drug case management program, supporting adults by coordinating all the services they need including health, legal, housing and more. Referrals via DirectLine on 1800 888 236 (available 24/7) or visit www.directline.org.au. Forensic CRC is available via ACSO brokerage.
Click here for more info about the program.
GP AssistGP Assist supports GPs to refer their patients to alcohol and other drug treatment. GPs complete a screening (or we can complete it for them) and send the result to us, and we provide brief interventions and bridging support while the client is waiting to access longer-term treatment. Referrals from GPs only at
Click here for more info about the program.
Alcohol and Drug Liaison Outreach Work (ADLOW)ADLOW (Alcohol and Drug Liaison Outreach Work) delivers short term alcohol and other drug interventions while participants are waiting to access longer-term community supports. The ADLOW program takes referrals from GPs and other health professionals through or call us on 03 9532 0811.
Click here for more info about the program.
First Peoples' Healing ProgramThe First Peoples’ Healing Program supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 16 to 55 and/or their immediate family, around concerns related to alcohol and other drug misuse. a wraparound service with a cultural lens this program acknowledges the social and emotional wellbeing of each participant and supports their connection to self, Mob and Country. Anyone can refer, with participant consent at or on 03 9532 0811.
Click here for more info about the program.
SMART RecoverySMART Recovery is a group support program helping participants change unhealthy behaviours around alcohol and other drugs, gambling, and other concerns. 60 to 90-minute groups held weekly for people 18 and over in Cranbourne, women 18 and over at Bentleigh and for young people 25 and under in Frankston and Moorabbin. No referral required.
Times, locations and more info available here.
Peer Support GroupPeer Support Group takes place each Monday at our St Kilda site from 1:00 – 2:30 PM. Facilitated by a trained and experienced peer leader, people with lived experience of alcohol and other drug use meet to talk about the things that affect them, learn from others, find common ground and encourage their peers to make positive changes. No referral required but participants are requested to please contact us on 03 9529 7955 or at before attending their first meeting.
Click here for more info about the program.
CHOICES (forensic program)CHOICES is a three-hour group program for people involved with Community Correctional Services who have been assessed as low-risk offenders, aiming to challenge the link between substance misuse and criminal offending. Available via ACSO brokerage only.
Click here for more info about the program.
KickStart (forensic program)KickStart is an 8 or 15-week group program for men in the justice system assessed as medium-high risk offenders, aiming to challenge the link between substance misuse and criminal offending. Available via ACSO brokerage only.
Click here for more info about the program.
Accessing our education and employment programs.
JobsVic Mentors (RealCareers)The JobsVic Mentors program (RealCareers) supports people who live in the City of Greater Dandenong who are long-term unemployed, or at risk of long-term unemployment, to find and keep employment. Anyone can refer, with client consent, via
Click here for more info about the program.
VicRoads accredited Driver Behaviour Change ProgramsVicRoads accredited Behaviour Change Programs for people charged with a drink or drug driving offence. We deliver Drink Driver, Drug Driver and Intensive Drink and Drug Driver programs, a Pre-Interlock Removal program, and AOD Specialist reports. Anyone can book in online here.
Accessing Windana's family services.
Family ProgramThe Family Program helps parents engaged with AOD treatment to strengthening parenting capacity and family functioning. We offer single session consults as well as the six-week Tuning into Kids program which builds parents and carers skills in recognising, understanding and managing their own and their children’s emotions. Client can self-refer through DirectLine on 1800 888 236 (available 24/7) or visit www.directline.org.au. GPs and other workers can refer clients directly to this service at with a comprehensive AOD assessment and GP patient health summary (if available).
Click here for more info about the program.
The Family Reunification Program supports parents who are required to complete alcohol and other drug treatment as part of a Family Reunification or Interim Accommodation court order. in the Bayside (cities of Port Phillip, Stonnington, Glen Eira, Bayside and Kingston) and Frankston-Mornington Peninsula regions. We work towards parent’s alcohol and other drug goals as well as address any other complexities including family violence, mental health and more. Bayside clients can self-refer via through Bayside Integrated Services on 1800 229 263. Frankston clients can self-refer via Peninsula Health Intake on 1300 665 781. Child Protection can refer directly to
Click here for more info about the program.
Engaging FamiliesEngaging Families helps families in Cardinia who experience family violence and substance misuse or mental health issues to access counselling services, case management, and parenting supports. Anyone can refer via Windermere here or on 1300 946 337
Click here for more info about the program.
U-Turn Men's Behaviour Change ProgramU-Turn is a 15-week group program that works with men to change their attitudes and behaviours around family violence, while also addressing alcohol and other drug use. We also support affected family members of U-Turn participants. More information and referrals via or on 03 9532 0811.
Click here for more info about the program.
Information for workers.
Working with the legal and justice systemsClients with criminal convictions/on bail (forensic clients)
We accept forensic referrals and consider the factors (including nature of a crime, and type of service requested) that determine if Windana can offer a safe and appropriate environment for a particular client.
For our residential rehabilitation programs, we are generally unable to accept new residents who have court dates in the next two months.
Providing information to courts
We may provide Courts with information when it is requested in line with the relevant Act or Acts.
Justice and sentencing schemes
We may be able to sponsor people involved with the Work and Development Permit Scheme or Spent Convictions Scheme.
Lawyer collaboration
In our residential rehabilitation programs, a resident’s main worker can work with legal representatives towards positive outcomes for the resident’s legal matters.
Frequently asked questionsWhere can my client get more information about Windana?
Your client can find out more by visiting the Getting help page of our website or by calling us on 03 9523 7955 Monday to Friday, between 9.00am and 4:30pm.
Your client can also contact DirectLine or their catchment Intake and Assessment service for information about Windana and other public alcohol and other drug services in Victoria.
Do clients need to pay for treatment?
Some of our services are free for the client, while others have a nominal daily amenities fee or require ongoing client co-payment (usually paid as a portion of the client’s Centrelink benefit.) Check an individual service page for details of fees.
Is Windana a public service?
We are a not-for-profit, for-purpose organisation that forms part of Victoria’s public alcohol and other drug treatment system.
What are the wait times for Windana?
Wait times vary by service and change often. Please call Reception on 03 9529 7955 for the most up-to-date waiting time.
What is the difference between withdrawal (detox) and rehabilitation programs?
Withdrawal programs support clients to withdraw from alcohol and/or other drugs in a safe environment, usually over a period of two weeks or less. Rehabilitation programs involve a longer process of creating lasting behavioural change, addressing dependence on substances and building supportive links in the community for ongoing stability.
Is Windana suitable for people with Dual Diagnosis (co-occurring mental health and alcohol/drug issues)?
We are an inclusive organisation and welcome people with diverse mental health experiences and conditions. Mental health supports are embedded across Windana and staff work collaboratively with community mental health services. Before a client is admitted to Windana, a comprehensive assessment process determines whether we are the right service for their unique needs – including mental health.
What supports are available once a program is completed?
Across our services, we aim to connect clients to supports for their ongoing journey after a particular program ends. This depends on an individual’s needs and goals but can include housing, medical, family, employment and other alcohol/drug services in their local communities.
Residents who have been through a residential rehabilitation program also have access to the Aftercare program and Peer Support groups.
Factsheets and info about alcohol and other drugs- Drug facts by substance (Australian Drug Foundation)
- Factsheets about research, stigma and harm reduction (Australian Drug Foundation)
- Alcohol and other drug withdrawal guidelines (Turning Point)
- Factsheets for GPs on treatment (Drug and Alcohol Clinical Advisory Service)
- Screening and assessment tools (Turning Point)
- List of catchment Intake and Assessment providers (Better Health Channel)
- Links to alcohol and other drug courses (Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association Inc.)
- Australia’s Take Home Naloxone (opioid overdose prevention) program (Dept. Health and Aged Care)
- ‘The Power of Words’ guide for professional AOD conversations (Australian Drug Foundation)