Five-star recovery

With substance dependency and mental health issues on the rise, a discreet rehabilitation program is helping professionals hit reset in country luxury.

In the tranquil Dandenong Ranges just outside Melbourne, Hills & Ranges Private (HARP) might be mistaken for a luxury resort, with its manicured grounds, spa and pool. In fact, it’s a renowned treatment facility for those struggling with addiction and mental health issues.

CEO Edward Handley, who established the treatment centre in 2019, says he based part of his model on five-star hotels. Removing the “white walls and lab coats” of traditional rehab facilities was essential to creating a comfortable, safe-feeling environment for HARP clients, who are predominantly C-suites and senior executives. Many are high-functioning individuals using drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress, anxiety and low self-esteem.

“About 4.5 million Australians suffer from alcohol and drug addictions and more than one in four use illegal drugs,” says Handley. “The pandemic has exacerbated the problem.”

Treatment here melds the clinical with the therapeutic. A team of counsellors, psychologists, nutritionists, art and music therapists and physical trainers work alongside doctors to tailor programs for each client. Downtime is also prioritised, with meditation, yoga, hiking and cooking classes teaching skills for managing stress.

Handley says the long-term success rate is more than 90 per cent for those who continue to see their counsellors after the on-site program finishes. “This is a life program. If we do our job correctly, our clients will know that drugs and alcohol are not the right options to deal with what’s going on internally.”

Two chalets near the facility, one at Sassafras and the other at Olinda, accommodate a combined maximum of 10 patients at a time. “We take lower numbers to make sure each client gets the work and care they need.”

On HARP’s grounds, plush amenities include a spa offering massages and facials, a gym, pool, hairdresser and nail salon. Private chefs create nutritious, personalised menus. And guests are given chauffered transfers to the facility from anywhere in Australia – there’s even a private jet.

“Rehab is not here to punish,” says Handley. “You’re putting your hand up to get help. Let’s celebrate that.”

For more information, visit rehab.melbourne or call 1800 422 711.