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People in the Hamilton, Portland and Warrnambool areas can now access free mental health counselling, and support with alcohol and other drugs, all through the one service.

Step Thru Care is a partnership of specialist organisations working together to provide integrated care to address a person’s mental health and/or alcohol and other drug support needs. Participants can access psychological therapy, low-intensity mental health support, alcohol and drug assessment or support care coordination without the need for a mental health treatment plan referral.

People seeking support can self-refer to Step Thru Care by contacting Mind Connect on 1300 286 463 or [email protected] . GPs and other referrers can also refer people by email, letter or fax.

Mind Australia General Manager – Western Victoria Phil Dunn says people in Victoria’s Great South Coast region are seeking support for their mental health for a variety of reasons, including: financial and cost of living pressures, homelessness and to cope following local tragedies such as car accidents and drownings.

“In the past, people in these communities may have had to wait to seek support, but through Step Thru Care we are currently able to provide low, moderate and high intensity mental health support in these regional areas,” Mr Dunn said.

Service details
Great South Coast, VIC
Provides low, moderate and high intensity mental health support for people living in Victoria’s Great South Coast.
In person 0-100 Free

“Step Thru Care is about supporting people experiencing mental health and wellbeing concerns and/or alcohol and drug addiction with holistic wrap around support services, so that they can get the help they need to recover, stay well and to live fulfilling and independent lives in the community.”

Step Thru Care is funded by Western PHN and delivered by Mind Australia in partnership with WRAD Health, Portland and District Health, Brophy Family and Youth Services and genU.

To learn more about Step Thru Care visit the Mind Australia website or call 1300 286 463. GPs and other referrers can refer by email ([email protected]) or fax (03 9124 1523).

If this article raises concerns for you, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Aboriginal and Torres Straits Islanders can also call 13 YARN (13 92 76) a 24/7 national crisis support telephone service staffed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 
If you would like more information, please contact us.

1300 286 463 
[email protected]