Anxiety Treatment in Brisbane

If anxiety is significantly affecting your daily life and standard treatments have not provided enough relief, specialist anxiety treatment in Brisbane may be the right next step. At Nundah Private Hospital, anxiety treatment is delivered within a dedicated private mental health hospital under the care of an experienced psychiatrist, supported by a full multidisciplinary allied health team. Treatment is tailored to each person and available across a complete continuum of care, from inpatient admission through to day programs and outpatient support.

In short: Anxiety treatment at Nundah Private Hospital involves a psychiatrist-led, evidence-based care plan that may include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CT), DBT, medication management, structured day programs, or inpatient admission.

Treatment is tailored to the individual following a comprehensive assessment and is available to adults with a referral from a GP or treating doctor.

What is Anxiety Treatment?

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions, but they vary widely in type, severity, and impact. Conditions such as Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and specific phobias each have distinct features and respond best to targeted, evidence-based treatment. Without appropriate care, anxiety can become increasingly disabling, affecting work, relationships, physical health, and overall quality of life.

Effective anxiety treatment is structured, individualised, and evidence-based. Rather than simply managing symptoms, treatment aims to address the underlying thoughts, behaviours, and physiological responses that contribute to anxiety while helping people develop practical coping strategies and build long-term resilience.

For people whose symptoms have not improved with standard community-based care, a specialist anxiety treatment program delivered within a multidisciplinary private mental health hospital can provide the level of support needed to achieve meaningful and lasting improvement.

What Types of Anxiety Treatment Are Available?

The most appropriate treatment depends on the type of anxiety disorder, the severity of symptoms, and previous treatments. At Nundah Private Hospital, treatment plans are tailored to the individual and may include one or more of the following evidence-based approaches:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT is considered the first-line psychological treatment for most anxiety disorders. It helps people identify and change unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours that maintain anxiety, while developing healthier ways of responding to stressful situations.

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

DBT teaches practical skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. It can be particularly helpful for people experiencing significant emotional distress or anxiety alongside mood disorders or difficulties managing intense emotions.

Exposure Therapy

Exposure therapy is an important component of CBT for many anxiety disorders, particularly panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. It involves gradual, supported exposure to feared situations or triggers, helping reduce avoidance and build confidence over time.

Medication Management

When appropriate, medication may form part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly prescribed for Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Panic Disorder. Your psychiatrist will assess, prescribe, monitor, and adjust medication as required. Depending on your individual symptoms and needs, other medications may also be prescribed as part of your personalised treatment plan.

Day Therapy Programs

Structured day programs provide intensive evidence-based therapy while allowing patients to return home each evening. These programs combine group therapy, psychoeducation, and practical skills training to support recovery without requiring inpatient admission.

Inpatient Mental Health Treatment

For people experiencing severe or debilitating anxiety, inpatient treatment provides 24-hour support within a private hospital setting. Inpatient care offers comprehensive psychiatric assessment, medication review, individual and group therapy, and coordinated multidisciplinary care in a safe, therapeutic environment.

Who Is Anxiety Treatment at Nundah Private Hospital Right For?

Anxiety treatment at Nundah Private Hospital is designed for adults experiencing all types of anxiety, including moderate to severe anxiety symptoms, particularly when anxiety is significantly affecting daily life or has not responded sufficiently to standard outpatient treatment. The most appropriate level of care is determined following a comprehensive psychiatric assessment.

You may benefit from specialist anxiety treatment if you:

• experience persistent or excessive worry, fear, or panic that is difficult to control
• have tried psychological therapy or medication without achieving sufficient improvement
• find that anxiety is affecting your work, study, relationships, or ability to manage everyday activities
• experience regular panic attacks or increasingly avoid situations because of anxiety
• require more structured or intensive support than is available through your GP or community-based care
• have been referred by your GP or another medical practitioner for psychiatric assessment

Anxiety disorders affect everyone differently. Following a comprehensive assessment, your psychiatrist will recommend an individualised treatment plan that best matches your needs. This may include outpatient appointments, a structured day program, inpatient admission, or a combination of services delivered across the continuum of care.

Our goal is to provide the right level of support at the right time, with the flexibility to increase or reduce treatment intensity as your recovery progresses.

Anxiety Treatment at Nundah Private Hospital, Brisbane

Nundah Private Hospital is a dedicated 58-bed private mental health hospital located in Brisbane, approximately 15 minutes from the CBD. Conveniently located near the Gateway Motorway and the Clem Jones Tunnel, the hospital is easily accessible for patients throughout Brisbane and South East Queensland. Public transport options, including train and bus services, are also within walking distance.

Our experienced psychiatrists work alongside a multidisciplinary allied health team to deliver comprehensive, evidence-based anxiety treatment. Depending on your individual needs, your care team may include:

• Clinical psychologists and registered psychologists providing evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and other psychological interventions.
• Mental health nurses providing ongoing assessment, support, education, and medication management.
• Occupational therapists helping patients develop practical coping strategies, routines, and skills for returning to everyday activities.
• Social workers providing support with family, work, community, and psychosocial challenges that may contribute to anxiety.
• Allied health clinicians delivering structured group programs, psychoeducation, and recovery-focused interventions.

Working collaboratively, our team develops a personalised treatment plan designed to address your symptoms, improve your quality of life, and support long-term recovery.

What to Expect from Your Anxiety Treatment

Every person's experience of anxiety is different, which is why treatment at Nundah Private Hospital is tailored to your individual needs. From your initial assessment through to discharge and ongoing support, your care is coordinated by an experienced multidisciplinary team.

Comprehensive Psychiatric Assessment

Your treatment begins with a thorough psychiatric assessment. Your psychiatrist will take the time to understand your symptoms, medical and mental health history, previous treatments, and personal goals. This assessment forms the basis of your individual treatment plan.

Personalised Treatment Planning

Following your assessment, your psychiatrist will work collaboratively with you to develop an evidence-based treatment plan tailored to your needs. This may include psychological therapies, medication management, structured group programs, inpatient treatment, day programs, or a combination of approaches.

Active Treatment

Depending on your treatment plan, you may receive care as an inpatient, attend a structured day program, or participate in outpatient appointments. Throughout your treatment, your care is coordinated to ensure you receive the right level of support at each stage of your recovery.

Multidisciplinary Allied Health Care

Your psychiatrist works closely with a team of experienced mental health professionals, including psychologists, mental health nurses, occupational therapists, social workers, and other allied health clinicians. Each member of the team contributes specialised skills to support your recovery and help you develop practical strategies for managing anxiety.

Regular Progress Reviews

Your progress is reviewed regularly throughout treatment. As your symptoms improve or your needs change, your psychiatrist can adjust your treatment plan to ensure it continues to support your recovery.

Discharge Planning and Ongoing Support

Recovery continues beyond your hospital stay or day program. Our team will work with you on a plan to maintain your wellbeing after treatment, including follow-up support and anxiety management strategies to reduce the risk of relapse.

Side Effects and Safety

The potential side effects of anxiety treatment depend on the therapies included in your individual care plan.

If medication is recommended, commonly prescribed medicines such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) or Serotonin-Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) may cause mild side effects when treatment first begins. These often improve over time, and your psychiatrist will monitor your response closely, making adjustments if required.

Psychological therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and exposure therapy, are generally well tolerated. Some therapies—particularly exposure-based treatment—are designed to involve temporary, manageable increases in anxiety within a safe and supportive environment. This process is an important part of helping reduce anxiety over the longer term.

Before treatment begins, your psychiatrist will discuss the potential benefits, risks, side effects, and available treatment options so you can make an informed decision about your care.

Side Effects and Safety

The potential side effects of anxiety treatment depend on the therapies included in your individual care plan.

If medication is recommended, commonly prescribed medicines such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) or Serotonin-Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) may cause mild side effects when treatment first begins. These often improve over time, and your psychiatrist will monitor your response closely, making adjustments if required.

Psychological therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and exposure therapy, are generally well tolerated. Some therapies—particularly exposure-based treatment—are designed to involve temporary, manageable increases in anxiety within a safe and supportive environment. This process is an important part of helping reduce anxiety over the longer term.

Before treatment begins, your psychiatrist will discuss the potential benefits, risks, side effects, and available treatment options so you can make an informed decision about your care.

How to Get Started: Referral and Next Steps

Accessing anxiety treatment at Nundah Private Hospital is straightforward, and our team will guide you through each stage of the process. For inpatient admissions:

1. Speak with Your GP or Treating Doctor

Discuss your symptoms with your GP or treating doctor and request a referral to a psychiatrist with admitting rights at Nundah Private Hospital. A referral is required before treatment can commence.

2. Admissions Assessment

Once we receive your referral, a member of our Admissions and Assessment Team will contact you to complete a confidential telephone assessment, confirm your private health insurance details (where applicable), and explain admission and payment options.

3. Personalised Treatment Planning

Your referral and assessment will be reviewed by a psychiatrist, who will discuss the most appropriate level of care based on your individual needs. This may include inpatient treatment, a structured day program, outpatient care, or a combination of services.

4. Begin Your Treatment

Once your admission has been confirmed, our team will coordinate your admission or program commencement and support you throughout your care journey.

For GPs and Specialists: Referrals can be sent directly to our Admissions Team for inpatient stays. Referrals for our outpatient clinic can be sent through Medical Objects or emailed to our Private Practice. Please refer to our Referral Process page for referral requirements and contact details.

Need Urgent Help?

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or requires urgent mental health support, call 000 in an emergency. If you need immediate crisis support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is anxiety treatment?

Anxiety treatment refers to a range of evidence-based therapies used to reduce anxiety symptoms and support recovery from an anxiety disorder. Depending on your needs, treatment may include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), medication management, structured day programs, outpatient appointments, or inpatient mental health care.

At Nundah Private Hospital, every treatment plan is individualised and overseen by an experienced psychiatrist.

What is the difference between Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder, and Panic Disorder?

Although these conditions all involve anxiety, they affect people in different ways.

• Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) involves persistent and excessive worry about a range of everyday situations.
• Social Anxiety Disorder is characterised by an intense fear of being judged or embarrassed in social or performance situations.
• Panic Disorder involves recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and ongoing concern about having further attacks.

A comprehensive psychiatric assessment is the best way to determine the correct diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

How does Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) help with anxiety?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is considered the first-line psychological treatment for most anxiety disorders. It helps people recognise and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to anxiety while developing healthier coping strategies. CBT is highly effective for conditions including Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Panic Disorder, and may be used alone or alongside medication.

Do I need a referral for anxiety treatment at Nundah Private Hospital?

Yes. To access treatment at Nundah Private Hospital, you will need a referral to a psychiatrist with admitting rights to the hospital. Your GP or treating doctor can arrange this referral and discuss whether specialist anxiety treatment is appropriate for you. You may also wish to see a psychiatrist as an outpatient through our private practice clinic, depending on your symptoms.

What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist is a doctor and medical specialist who can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe and manage medication, and oversee complex treatment plans.

A psychologist provides evidence-based psychological therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), but does not prescribe medication.

At Nundah Private Hospital, psychiatrists and psychologists work together as part of a multidisciplinary team to provide coordinated, comprehensive care.

How much does anxiety treatment cost?

The cost of treatment depends on your individual circumstances, the type of care you require, and your funding arrangements. Treatment may be covered through private health insurance, the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA), WorkCover, or self-funding.

Our Admissions Team will explain any out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins so you know what to expect.

What anxiety treatment programs are available at Nundah Private Hospital?

Nundah Private Hospital provides a comprehensive range of anxiety treatment options across the continuum of care, including:

• Inpatient mental health treatment
• Structured day therapy programs
• Day intensive programs
• Outpatient psychiatric clinics
• Hospital in the Home (HITH), where clinically appropriate

Your psychiatrist will recommend the most suitable program based on your assessment, symptoms, treatment goals, and support needs.

Take the Next Step

Living with anxiety can be overwhelming, particularly when previous treatments have not provided the improvement you were hoping for. If therapy or medication has not been enough, it does not mean that recovery is out of reach. Specialist, evidence-based anxiety treatment is available at Nundah Private Hospital, where care is tailored to your individual needs and delivered within a dedicated private mental health hospital.

Whether you are seeking treatment for the first time or require a more intensive level of support, our experienced psychiatrists and multidisciplinary mental health team are here to help. Together, we will develop a personalised treatment plan designed to support your recovery and help you regain confidence in managing everyday life.

If you would like to learn more about anxiety treatment at Nundah Private Hospital, or discuss whether our services are right for you or someone you care about, please contact our Admissions Team. We can answer your questions, explain the referral process, and help you take the next step towards treatment.