Treating mental health, trauma and addiction concerns separately is common despite their co-occurrence being the norm rather than an exception. Seeking to divide them can lead to stigmatisation, shame, frustration and compassion fatigue which erodes the therapeutic relationship. Many experience the circular pattern of being turned away from different services until their ‘other’ condition is addressed. Springboard has been delivering an alternative model for the past seven years that opens up pathways to hope and change.

Springboard views mental health and addiction concerns as natural expressions of the human struggle to cope with unmet needs for safety, connection and growth. This trauma-informed approach addresses the personal and relational nature of healing by improving psychological flexibility; strengthening coping skills and resilience; and supporting values-based choices. A focus on collaboration, empowerment and trust enables participants to confidently manage risk in the pursuit of a rich, full and meaningful life.

Based in inner Brisbane’s Spring Hill, we provide a free 18-week day-program composed of a six-week learning group, twelve-week aftercare support and ongoing peer group. Underpinned by an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) framework, the six-week learning intensive focuses on in depth psycho-education, mindfulness skills and routine building. This includes physical health sessions of gym, trauma-sensitive yoga and a dietitian. Our holistic approach can add complementary dimensions to existing therapeutic models.

We will demonstrate the efficacy of our model using validated psychometric scales that show significant and sustained treatment outcomes for both mental health and substance dependence. Strong participant completion (63.3%) and high appraisal rating (9.5/10) over the last 25 intakes (n=316) also provide firm indication that we are addressing the factors that erode therapeutic rapport.