South Pacific Private – Sydney

Was there a few months ago and had a unreal experience all the nurses were super lovely and the therapists and ewocs were amazing and made the stay really good and I’ve been feeling great since I left. My only problem… was on the last few days a transgender women arrived who was 6”4 and 120 kilos and chose to use the women’s bathrooms, while there is 10 unisex bathrooms that only one person could go in at a time to use(which is perfect for this scenario)they chose to use the one that multiple women used at the same time, with a sign on the bathroom saying basically saying “anyone is welcome to use this bathroom we don’t judge gender”. But I wasn’t aloud to wear a hat in there because it can trigger peoples trauma from sexual assualt, it seemed like they had no backbone and if the topic was brought up you were deemed anti trans even though this person was treated with so much respect by everyone. I don’t believe in making 15 women uncomfortable just to make one person comfortable. Bit ot a disappointing end but besides that I had a unreal time and would recommend it.

I had outstanding experience after admitting myself to SPP for Childhood trauma - Something I have experienced ongoing issues with at over 50 years of age. It was an experience that I would recommend to any adult who… chooses to look after themselves and better themselves. I recently tried to re-enroll for an ongoing day program to explore deeper into these matters. I was told that I need to go back in for another inpatient program. I volunteered to go there. Nobody made me do it. They told me I was an alcoholic. Yes, I’m having issues with alcohol. As do most troubled adults. But I’m not escaping the trauma that has destroyed my life. Alcohol is just one part of it. I am really disappointed read the way they treated me. Sadly, I’ll be choosing another institution to help me work through my challenges because this one obviously does not care enough except for revenue…. Do you research people?

Of all the programs I’ve seen, SPP really stands out for the longevity of recovery and sobriety I’ve witnessed in people after they leave. Their approach goes so much further than simply getting sober, it’s about the… whole person, family, connection, support and learning how to truly live again. Through immediate family members, close friends and my own journey in recovery, I’ve had a very close connection to South Pacific Private and have seen firsthand the impact their program can have. I’ve watched people come out of SPP and go on to build lives beyond what they ever thought possible. The care and culture is clearly lead from the top by Leah, whose kind, real and genuinely compassionate nature is an absolute standout. There is an authenticity to the way she leads and connects with people that is incredibly special. An incredible program doing incredibly important work. Thank you SPP. ❤️

My stay at SPP worsened my symptoms and I left more unwell then when I entered the facility. I’ve never wanted to speak up because just remembering that time, feels traumatising. It was like a zoo; an absolute zoo.… Patients bed-hopping and sleeping with one another. Two of my anxiety / depression sessions overridden to focus on addictions as some inpatients attending for addiction management said the anxiety and depression sessions were boring. I was like a wall flower. Lost in an overcrowded zoo. When I expressed to a counsellor that I didn’t think it was the right environment for me, she invalidated my concerns and told me I was “running away” from my confronting my issues. The psychiatrist at the time didn’t give me anything to treat my depression other than Xanax! Xanax - to take three times a day to manage depression. I ended up dependent on that medicine and had to go to St John of God in Burwood for proper mental health treatment. If you have a sensitive personality DO NOT go here. You’ll be swallowed whole by the “noise” and overlooked. I almost can’t believe that it’s a hospital - it’s so unprofessional and I’d go as far to say, unethical.

Turned away during the intake call because I am looking at cancer treatment. Even though the surgery was happening completely separately to the expected time there. Day surgery, back home same day. They suggested other… facilities that they thought might be better for someone like me. I've had so many more positive experiences from other facilities since then. Accepting me, not spurning me because I didn't conform to an "ideal" type of applicant. So what, maybe I will die of cancer.... was surprised that was an argument with South Pacific Private to not help me with my drinking. 24-4-26 I note your comment on my review of 23-4-26 (I can't comment on your individual reviews, because of the way the reviews are set up). I feel like your representative that I spoke to at the time gave me ample opportunity to talk through my concerns at the time, I do not have an issue on this point. They used the phrase "someone like you" someone who has cancer I took this to mean 6 or 7 times, from my notes. If the call was recorded, you can review it. I took it as someone you don't want there, which was reinforced by my rejected application. I am talking to the facilities your organisation recommended... for someone like me. As you advised, they seem willing to take someone like me. Someone with cancer. Who also can't control a substance that hurts them and people around them. Thankyou for your response.

Being admitted to SPP was life changing. Full credit to the nurses, therapists, counsellors and kitchen crew. I had a great experience, and can thoroughly recommend it for anyone going through tough times. A special… shout out to Cat and Nicola. You have changed my life. Sincerely, Martin

I couldn't reccommend this place enough, truly transforming experience.

My first experience at SPP was amazing in 2022. Met amazing people and the experience was life changing. Unfortunately I relapsed and went back in October 2025. The amount of patients that just left the facility day and… night at free will with zero consequences was insane to me. An individual that after informing staff of his behaviour in the hospital and lack of respect for the rules and I was practically forced to have a 1 on 1 as my reality to tell him my feelings after informing my therapist of my fears of what the consequences for me would be that backfired and I was made to feel like an outcast after that person then went and told everyone even when it was meant to be confidential then intimated me and made me uncomfortable in the time I was there with zero consequences. Vaping, zero confidentiality, people just not turning up to lectures that are supposed to be compulsory with zero accountability. Staff have lost control of patients and Do not talk the talk to their so called policies. Very disappointing 2nd time round and would not recommend. Women are treated completely different in the way they are aloud to dress being constantly called up for shorts or single tops while men are allowed to wear whatever they won’t and show their bits with zero consequences. Men can abuse woman verbally and get away with it and are even given privileges (private rooms). My friend was verbally abused by a man in front of staff and patients and ultimately she had to leave as staff and management did nothing for her while this man was protected for his constant appalling behaviour while in group and the community. Woman are treated completely different to the men and they are allowed by management to get away with the most vile behaviour while the woman have to put as victim. Staff not turning up on time for walks which for most people following the rules is the only outlet to some freedom and fresh air .

This program saved my life and showed me that no matter what I had been through in my past, recovery from complex trauma is possible!!

Despite many positive interactions with the staff at SPP, I am writing because I had experiences during my stay that caused me serious concern regarding my privacy and data. Specifically, my room was entered and… searched daily, and biological samples taken from me were not accounted for on multiple occasions. When I reported these issues to administration, I was told that no staff had conducted such searches. Despite this, I was drug-tested twice and referred to a psychiatrist, which I found distressing and unrelated to the concerns I was trying to raise. Changes to procedure, such as not handling medicine by hand—even though it was provided sealed—left me feeling shameful. On several occasions, information I had not shared with anyone seemed to have been referenced. Additionally, when sharing about the family program, I noticed that my possessions had been searched, with a paper folded. At the same time, I received a call from a staff member leaving a message asking to check in after the experience, which felt strange because I had not yet finished. After becoming aware of the discrepancy in information being shared or discussed, the next time I attended, the day program manager, upon seeing me enter reception, left the area with a real sense of urgency. This left me feeling confused, saddened and shameful. At no point was I ever provided with an opportunity to clarify, or understand these reactions and changes in policy, because I experienced none of these when I came previously in 2022. I am also aware of law enforcement activity related to my situation, though I cannot provide further details at this time. I am not able to go into more specifics here, but these events left me extremely uncomfortable. I hope SPP will review these matters properly.

It’s been almost three years since my journey with SPP. When I walked through their doors, I was exhausted. I’d spent years carrying trauma I didn’t know how to face, and honestly, I didn’t believe healing was possible… for me. I was surviving, not living, just getting through each day, barely holding it together. But when I entered those doors, something shifted. For the first time, I felt safe. I felt seen. Their holistic approach to trauma didn’t just focus on the surface-level symptoms, it got to the root of what I’d been carrying my whole life. The therapists and staff held space for me in a way I’d never experienced before. They gently guided me through the darkest parts of myself and showed me that healing is not only possible, but something I deserve. They didn’t just help me survive, they gave me the tools to truly live. They helped me lay a foundation strong enough to build a future on, one that I now continue to grow and shape with the skills and self-awareness they nurtured in me. In addition to the wonderful staff, I met some incredibly resilient and kind human beings going through this program alongside me. You learn to be vulnerable with complete strangers and watch people you have known for such a short time carry such a large amount of compassion for everyone in there while they are also working through their own pain. It’s so easy to disconnect in the real world and forget we are all just doing the best we can with what life has given us. It’s not a quick fix, recovery never is, but SPP genuinely gave me the start I desperately needed to begin truly having a good quality of life. I’m not just surviving anymore. I’m growing, healing, and finding real peace. I could not recommend this program more.

Attending South Pacific Private was truly a life changing experience. Throughout, I felt supported, cared for, and understood. The amazing nursing staff went above and beyond every single day, providing care that made… me feel safe throughout my stay. The therapists were remarkable, their insight and guidance helped me work through challenges I never thought I’d be able to face. A special mention goes to Ed (the chef) whose incredible meals brightened each day. South Pacific Private gave me the tools, support, and environment I needed to begin a new chapter in my life, and I will always be deeply grateful. If you’re considering seeking help, I highly recommend this place.

Do not attend this hospital if you are a T1 diabetic. Good at mental health stuff, terrible at diabetes management. They withheld both sugar and insulin at times when required (or rather NEEDED TO WITHSTAND LIFE), and… it was a regular fight (multiple times a day) to get the required medical attention. I requested meetings with the DON and NUM on multiple occasions (including prior to admission) but was fobbed off with excuses and reasons as why it was MY fault. Not fun being dismissed without food/sugar with a BGL off 2.6 (which happened on a number of occasions) when there is no other access to sugar. Having people, in this case nurses and drs, being roadblocks to the things you know you need to survive the next 5 mins, is a hell no diabetic should experience. They do not care. Some nurses are great. But woe betide any diabetic needing sugar when the good nurses aren’t on duty

They lie when they say they can help with trauma. Its a rehab *only*.

My overall experience was positive; healthy food, group therapy twice daily, caring staff and the digital detox was my favourite part!! I was there July 2024. HOWEVER, SPP follows the 12 steps as a recovery method. I… was part of the minority that was in for depression and anxiety, I've never had substance addiction. So to participate I had to choose a 12 step program to join. I gave SLAA & CODA a go, and whilst they are a wonderful community, the program is a construct for neurotypicals. And as 98% of the population have 'normal' brains it works for a lot of people, just not for ADHD/Autistic like me. I can finally say I no longer suffer depression, big win!!! This came after my own research into Autistic burnout. SPP still use the medical model for neurodiversity and see ADHD and Autism as a deficit/disorder. Which make you feel like there is something WRONG with you. However, as soon as I realised AUTISM is what's RIGHT with me, depression has miraculously disappeared. I still have a lot of other things im working on as my anxiety has increased (Autistic meltdowns), trying to manage my energy levels, but at least I've realised that neurotypical therapies do a lot of harm and I am now in control of my recovery. SPP is part of my recovery journey, they are also victims of systemic therapies that work for the majority of the population. It's just funny, that a big percentage of inpatients are neurodiverse people, who are being treated by doctors that won't look outside their textbooks... The world will catch up one day.

10/10

I'm sure why it's taken this long to do a review but here we, theres is no doubt South Pacific Private is a great facility. I really didn't want to turn up which is probably the case for most people, the staff are great… and same goes for the location - being around like minded people with similar issues does really help in the recovery process. Since leaving SSP I have achieved so much in a short period time. I want to be clear, SSP played really small part in journey, it kick started my path to a better life, ultimately YOU have to make the change and sometimes the universe will decide that for you. I really wish the best to anyone out there suffering from any form of addiction! It's can be overcome and conquered! Believe and trust yourself. I really didn't make myself clear in my communication unfortunately, I never stated if my experience was either negative or positive - this my own personal perspective.The huge disappointment for personally is being judged in a Rehab treatment centre, this happened to me directly and mentioning names and titles is irrelevant - time for a reality check for this treatment facility. What type of reply was that? What about speaking to me over the phone or meeting me in person? Are you attempting to GAS light me? Well if that's the intention you've failed.

The South Pacific Private recovery experience will benefit some, but hinder others. The program and procedures weren’t for me. Some experiences were manageable. The food was fantastic, and the absence of caffeine and… sugar, while a challenge, was a worthwhile experience. The daily therapy group programs, while intense and long, were well handled by the therapist. The program centred mainly on managing and adapting yourself to the co-dependency therapy model. I was able to find significant value in these sessions. But the overall environment was too intense for me, and I could tell it was significantly harder for some other inpatients. The relatively small estate size the hospital sits on means you are in close proximity to all patients, at all times. Speaking for myself, when I need to be hospitalized and treated, I need time and space for myself. I am capable of socializing, but while in the midst of serious recovery, this was the last thing that I needed. Hence, whether you can manage it or not, you are forced into a close proximity community and you will either adapt to or significantly struggle with. This tightly contained environment forcibly creates a community that, with the natural admission and discharge of patients, changes daily. The first 7 to 10 days of my stay was made up of a relatively positive and supportive group of patients, however, this changed significantly with the admission of some new patients with big personalities, unproductive attitudes, and pessimistic views. These personalities naturally drew towards one another, and within a day or two, they’d formed a clique that drastically dominated the small close quartered common areas. This wouldn’t really have been a problem but for two reasons. Firstly, it became intimidating and uncomfortable to be in the common areas, and as it was generally discouraged that you spend time alone in your room, you were left with little space for yourself in a challenging atmosphere. Secondly, any attempt made toward co-ordinators or nurses to address these issues, were handled either unprofessionally or not at all. When invited to discuss these issues in daily community meetings, the professional response was to ask how it made us feel and how we could personally grow from the challenge. This should not have been a therapy exercise, we were asking management and co-ordinators to acknowledge and address behaviour that were leaving a lot of patients scared and intimidated. My medication management was also handled extremely poorly by my assigned psychiatrist, who I spent a grand total of 120 minutes with over 3 weeks. By his advice, I was weened of the maximum dose of Effexor at, what I have since learned, was a dangerous and unhealthy rate. I was discharged after three weeks on no medication while in the grips of a volatile withdrawal period. The prohibition policy around any social media, phones, television and books was also an issue. The prohibition of books really was too much. The only reading materials permitted were non-fiction self-help and therapy books. The reasoning was that for the entirety of your stay, the staff wanted you to focus only on materials that help your recovery journey. I tried to read The Alchemist, a book that has helped me time and time again with my mental health, but as this is fundamentally a FICTION story, it was disallowed. South Pacific Private promotes itself as a treatment centre for people with a wide variety or challenges, both mood and addiction. But in my experience, it is singularly suited to a rehabilitation centre for addiction. I, and many other inpatients with mood disorders, did not experience and environment that was conducive to recovery. If you’ve never been admitted to a treatment centre before, you may think they are all this intense. I’ve been to other hospitals since, and seeing how they are run, I would never consider going back to South Pacific Private. Valuable to some I’m sure, but it didn’t even come close for me.

This place is fantastic. Attended the 3 week program, 2 week transition and 1 week family program. Today because of this program I am 61 days sober. With any program you get out what you put into. There systems uncover… reasons for your additions and prepare you for maintaining sobriety/ additions on the outside. Once again if you have an addiction and WANT to stop there is no better place. Trust the Program it works. I am the Miracle.

As a counsellor, I have referred multiple clients to SPP, and I cannot speak highly enough about the team's exceptional service. The team at SPP is truly amazing. Emma, in particular, provided invaluable support… throughout the intake process, ensuring everything went smoothly. She was incredibly collaborative during the entire episode of care. Additionally, clients have shared wonderful feedback for Leanne, expressing the deep support and compassion felt throughout their time working with her. It's clear that SPP is dedicated to providing high-quality, empathetic care, and I’m grateful for the partnership we’ve built and the life changing opportunity for people struggling with trauma and addiction.

I was a scared young man (although I didn't know it) who was going there to get sober in order to get my family off my back. In this place I met other people who felt the same way I had felt. I was introduced to AA and… taught how to be vulnerable. The therapists there were all in recovery and inspired me to go into that field as well. I now have been made a casual at different facility trying to give the gift that was given to me at South Pacific Private. Bec and the night staff were just amazing helped me to stay engaged. I hope one day to return as a volunteer one day. I am three years sober and feeling better everyday. I am forever grateful to this place. Thank you

I would highly recommend South Pacific Hospital they are professional and very helpful

I've noticed a pattern where negative reviews are quickly followed by glowing positive ones. A recent acquaintance experienced this after sharing their poor experience and encouraged me to do the same. I was a patient… in 2020, and this clinic was the most dangerous environment I encountered during recovery from a bipolar relapse set me back a years at least Psych requested a private room for various reasons, but they wouldn’t confirm until after admission. A GP saw me for four minutes on admission then took away Valium for anxiety attacks, refusing to allow me to take it or alternativle I was unaware that I couldn’t leave the clinic and would have to give up my laptop and books. While they claimed this was in pre-admission materials, I don’t recall it. I even mentioned looking forward to the beach nearby and was never corrected. Due to confinement and without Valium (plus other reasons), my anxiety spiraled. I was isolated in my room for four days, unable to attend groups, and no one checked in on me. The clinic strictly regulated daily life but dismissed its duty of care when I was in crisis. When I asked a nurse to speak to a psychiatrist, I was told not available and then when I explained aboveI was told "what do you expect me to do?" before walking away. I finally saw a GP, who prescribed a single sedative and left for the weekend. When I collected my meds, a nurse (Rex) literally said, “If you have another breakdown, that’s your problem.” Eventually rang a family member, got discharged and then emergency re-admission to previous mental health clinic . . . not before having almost $80 worth of supplements stolen by the nurse/s returning my meds and personal items. Somer Positives: The director occasionally checked chatted to patients, and the admissions officer was kind when my XSpayment initially declined. This clinic may be fine for rehab, but it is outright dangerous for severe mental illness like bipolar disorder or depression

Dangerous place that cares only about profit & continuing to pocket money after discharge. Not neurodivergent or disability whatsoever, caused me permanent physical injury & mental trauma. Endangered my life and another… patient’s, zero concern for female safety and abuse in particular. If you’re a victim of domestic violence and/or are seeking practical support, stay far away. This place ruined my life and I’m still picking up the pieces 1.5 years on & left with permanent injury.

I would like to share my experience with the intake staff at SPP Unfortunately, I found the process to be quite disappointing. The staff seemed judgmental, dismissive, and at times, discriminatory. During a period when… I was feeling particularly vulnerable, I completed the intake process, only to be informed that I was deemed unfit for the program. I made several attempts to reach out for clarification and support, but each time I called, Caitlyn was either in a meeting or unavailable, which felt quite rude. Despite my psychologist advocating on my behalf, the response remained the same, and it left me feeling unheard and disheartened. After reading numerous reviews and hearing feedback from others about the level of care provided, I am ultimately relieved that I did not proceed with the program. I believe that every individual deserves compassion and understanding, especially during challenging times. I hope that SPP can take this feedback to heart and work towards fostering a more supportive and welcoming environment for those seeking help. Thank you. By the way I have remained sober by a non for profit called AA check it out

During my time at spp. I was left to sleep in the detox room not an issue, everyone was the same! After 8 days no change! In this room there were three other people who me and them where woken every three hours. That… then did begin to become my problem. Biggest issue talking to Leanne she cut my stay short I was left on the beach of curl curl. I live 6 hrs from Sydney. She asked me to make a contract for myself next day gone. They got 13 grand from my insurance plus what I’ve spent Leanne needs to go from what she’s said about her own son and that she’s passive aggressive