Finding the right mental health care can feel overwhelming. Our FAQs aim to give you a clear understanding of the unique, personalised approach we provide at Goodsky Mental Health Retreat.
Goodsky offers a range of personalised retreats and care plans tailored to individual needs:
1. Depression and Anxiety Retreat: A customised program designed to help clients manage and overcome symptoms of depression and anxiety in a supportive, private setting.
2. PTSD Retreat: A retreat for individuals dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), focusing on trauma-informed care and tailored healing practices.
3. Teenage Mental Health Retreat: A retreat specifically for teenagers facing mental health challenges, providing age-appropriate therapeutic interventions and activities to build resilience and improve well-being.
4. Flexible Care Plan: An adaptable option for those who prefer to receive mental health support while remaining at home, offering remote access to professional guidance and therapy.
5. Chronic Pain and Gut Health Retreats: Programs for individuals dealing with chronic pain or gut health issues, addressing the connection between physical health and mental well-being to support holistic recovery.
All retreats are conducted in a private, one-on-one format, ensuring personalised care and attention for each client.
Goodsky Mental Health Retreat is a private and personalised mental health treatment centre that offers tailored programs for individuals seeking support for mental health challenges. Our approach integrates proven research with emerging science to provide a holistic and comprehensive path to healing, focusing on the mind, body, and nervous system. Our programs are available both in-person at our Sunshine Coast facilities and online, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for all clients.
Goodsky’s mental health retreat is designed for individuals seeking personalised, one-on-one support for various mental health challenges. It is ideal for those experiencing conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or chronic stress and for people looking to address issues related to chronic pain and gut health. The retreat is also suitable for teenagers facing mental health difficulties, providing a safe and supportive environment tailored to their unique needs.
Goodsky stands out from other mental health retreats by offering a truly holistic and personalised approach to mental health care. We focus on evidence-based therapies and a bottom-up approach that identifies and addresses the root causes of mental health challenges, rather than just managing symptoms. Our methods are particularly effective for individuals who haven’t found success with traditional talk therapy or conventional mental health treatments.
At Goodsky, we combine the latest scientific research with proven therapeutic practices to create tailored, one-on-one treatment plans. We believe in treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—using modalities that engage the nervous system and support healing from within. This approach allows us to provide deep, transformative care that promotes lasting recovery and well-being.
Our personalised care plans are ideal for those who have tried traditional therapies without success and are looking for a more comprehensive and integrated approach to mental health and healing.
Goodsky operates its depression treatment programs from the serene Marcoola Beach on the Sunshine Coast, QLD. Rather than having one large treatment centre, we have treatment teams set up across the Sunshine Coast. This approach allows us to make our programs more affordable by utilising professional practice facilities and local teams, ensuring a more personalised and accessible experience for our clients while still providing comprehensive and high-quality care in beautiful surroundings. Visit our Contact Page for more details.
We do offer a flexible home care program that can be done anywhere, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or overseas. This approach can be more affordable, however it is dependant on your mental health needs. Talk to us to establish the optimal care approach for you or your loved one.
Our comprehensive retreat programs span 14 weeks and includes three key phases: Discovery, Residential Stay, and Lifestyle Integration. The Discovery phase typically lasts 2-4 weeks, during which treatment begins immediately. Following the Residential Stay, the Lifestyle Integration phase continues for about 8 weeks to support you in maintaining your progress. These durations are flexible and can be adjusted based on your individual needs and the level of support required to help you achieve lasting well-being.
We have an outstanding of success rate for our clients, who almost always show significant improvements in their mental health and well-being. We measure success by the personal progress of each guest and their achievement of individual goals. Our guests typically show significant improvements in their DASS21 (Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale) and PCL-5 (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist) scores, both immediately after completing the program and continuing to improve three months later.
Visit our Outcomes Page for more information.
It is rare for guests to require a repeat of the full retreat program, but many choose to continue with specific therapies that were particularly beneficial to them, seeking ongoing support to maintain and build upon their progress.
Each program we create is customised to meet your unique needs, based on the assessment and test results from our discovery (testing) phase. Contact us to discuss your specific requirements, and we’ll provide an upfront estimate. If you’re happy to proceed, we’ll then tailor a comprehensive program specifically for you, ensuring it aligns with all the gathered information and your personal goals.
We do not offer in-house payment plans, but you can apply for a loan through Total Lifestyle Credit (TLC). Goodsky retreats are approved as part of their medical expense loan program, which provides flexible payment plan solutions tailored to your unique needs. Visit our Payment Options page for more information.
In Australia, you may be eligible to apply for early access to your superannuation on compassionate grounds if you need financial assistance to cover out-of-pocket costs for mental health or addiction rehabilitation programs. This option is also available for funding rehabilitation programs for your dependants. For more information, please visit our payment options page.
Coverage for our programs depends on your level of cover and what you have already used throughout the financial year. There are several treatment components in our programs that private health insurance may cover, such as Osteopathy, Exercise Physiology, Psychotherapy and Counselling, Dietetics, and Remedial Massage. While most insurance coverage is not extensive, you can claim back on these services once you have received the receipts. We will provide these receipts where possible, or the individual therapist will send them to you. We recommend contacting your insurer directly to understand your specific benefits and reimbursements for mental health treatment at Goodsky.
If you need to cancel your stay, our refund policy will depend on the timing of your cancellation. Cancellations made well in advance may be eligible for a partial refund, minus any non-refundable deposit or fees. However, cancellations made closer to the start date of your program may not be eligible for a refund. We encourage you to contact us directly to discuss your situation.
No, you do not need a referral from a GP or psychiatrist to attend our programs. You can reach out to us directly to begin your journey to personalised mental health care.
The pre-residential phase, also known as the discovery phase, is essential for understanding your condition more thoroughly before your residential stay. During this time, we conduct comprehensive testing and diagnostics to identify the underlying causes of your symptoms and connect you with the most suitable therapists. We also gather consented information from your GP and any previous therapists to gain a complete picture of your history, which helps us create a more effective and personalised treatment plan. This preparation ensures that when you begin the residential phase, you are already on the path toward optimal outcomes.
We’re legally unable to display testimonials on our website due to regulations from the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) regarding the advertising of health services. These rules are in place to ensure that all information provided to the public is accurate and not misleading. If you have any questions about our programs or services, we’re more than happy to provide additional details directly.
While we can begin your program immediately, there is typically a 2-4 week wait for the residential phase. During this waiting period, we initiate treatment and testing with our psychotherapy, medical, and biochemical nutrition teams. This early intervention helps stabilise your systems and prepares you for the residential phase, ensuring you are in a better place by the time you arrive.
The residential phase of our program typically lasts 2-3 weeks, as this timeframe allows us to complete all the necessary treatment and therapies effectively. However, we understand that some individuals may benefit from an extended stay to continue their recovery journey or simply to rest and recharge. If you feel you need more time to focus on your well-being, you are welcome to stay longer, subject to availability. During your stay, you can enjoy the benefits of a customised diet, learn more about cooking and nutrition, and take advantage of the beautiful beaches and surrounding areas to maintain your stretches and exercises. If you wish to extend your stay, please let us know, and we will do our best to accommodate you.
No, you will not be attending a mental health retreat with other people. Goodsky offers an exclusive program with private accommodation and no group therapy sessions. Our program is designed to provide a highly personalised experience, allowing you to focus entirely on your own healing without distractions. You’ll stay in a quiet, private beachside apartment with resort features and direct beach access, ensuring a serene environment for your tailored depression treatment program. This approach ensures that you have full access to our team’s expertise, with a focus solely on your unique needs and well-being.
Nutrition and diet are key components of our approach to effectively treating depression and anxiety. Our team will create a personalised menu tailored to your specific needs, taking into account your pathology and test results. This customised approach helps support gut restoration and eliminates any potential roadblocks to your treatment. Your meals will be freshly prepared and delivered daily to your apartment, along with snacks and smoothies if they are part of your treatment protocol. This ensures you receive nourishing and balanced meals designed to enhance your overall well-being during your stay.
Most therapies are conveniently provided at your residence, so you won’t need to travel far. For any sessions that require visiting a practitioner at their private practice nearby, our dedicated guest support team will be available to drive you to and from your appointments, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience throughout your stay.
We recommend bringing a few personal items to make your stay more comfortable. Bringing your own pillow can help you sleep better in a new environment, and an eye mask may also be useful if you have one. You’ll need activewear for your exercise physiology assessments, personal training sessions, and yoga classes, as well as comfortable walking shoes for exploring the nearby national parks and mountains. If you plan to swim at the beach or pool, be sure to pack swimwear and a beach towel.
Yes, you can bring a support person with you, especially in cases involving teenage programs or when family support is beneficial throughout your stay. Any support person accompanying you will need to be approved by your treatment team to ensure they align with your care plan and the goals of your program.
Goodsky is located near the airport in Marcoola, on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. If you are traveling from overseas, some flights do arrive directly at the Sunshine Coast Airport, but most international flights land at Brisbane International Airport. We will arrange private transfers from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast for your convenience.
If you are driving, each apartment has access to undercover parking. Alternatively, if you wish to have your own vehicle during your stay, we can help arrange a car rental from the airport.
Our Anxiety and Depression Retreat offers accommodation at the beautiful Atlantis Marcoola Beachfront Resort on the Sunshine Coast. Guests stay in luxurious, self-contained apartments with spacious layouts, modern amenities, private balconies, and stunning ocean views. The resort is designed for tranquility, featuring a heated swimming pool, fitness centre, rooftop spa, and direct access to the pristine Marcoola Beach.
Unlike a single large centre, our treatment teams are based at professional practice facilities across the coast. This approach makes our retreat more affordable while ensuring access to the best practitioners available. Learn more on our contact page.
Yes, there is Wi-Fi and mobile phone reception available during the retreat. However, for some individuals, we may recommend reducing usage to support the healing process and help create a more focused, distraction-free environment.
We treat a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain, and gut health issues. Our unique bottom-up approach is especially effective for those who haven’t found success with traditional talk therapy, including teens. We offer personalised, one-on-one care that is tailored to each individual’s needs.
The Goodsky Flexible Care Plan is our outpatient program and is designed for individuals who need flexible, effective mental health support without attending a retreat in person. The program includes comprehensive assessments and testing to identify the underlying causes of your concerns, as well as flexible therapy options available online or through local practitioners. Ideal for those who can self-manage their care, it is offered to anyone in the world and provides robust support using our unique bottom-up approach to address the root cause of trauma for true healing and recovery.
This option is popular with clients in NSW, Victoria, interstate and overseas.
We only offer individual therapy. Our approach is entirely personalised, focusing on one-on-one sessions to ensure that each client receives the dedicated attention and tailored care needed for their unique journey toward healing and recovery.
A typical day at the Goodsky retreat is uniquely tailored to your individual needs and treatment goals. Your day might include one-on-one therapy sessions with our experienced practitioners, mindfulness practices, somatic therapies, and activities specifically designed to support your healing journey. We focus on providing a calm, supportive environment for deep, personalised recovery, with guest services available at all times to ensure your comfort and well-being throughout your stay.
At Goodsky, we offer a range of evidence-based treatments tailored to your unique needs. Our programs focus on five key areas: Psychotherapy, Advanced Medical Therapies, Physical Therapies, Nutrition and Dietary Services, Alternative Therapies, and Lifestyle Enhancements. Each area is designed to work together to provide a comprehensive approach to mental health and well-being. For more detailed information on each of these treatment options, please visit our evidence-based treatments page.
We determine the most appropriate therapy for you through a thorough initial assessment that includes a detailed evaluation of your mental, emotional, and physical health. This assessment may involve comprehensive testing and discussions with our experienced practitioners to understand your specific needs and challenges. Based on this information, we create a personalised treatment plan that draws from our five key areas: Psychotherapy, Advanced Medical Therapies, Physical Therapies, Nutrition and Dietary Services, Alternative Therapies, and Lifestyle Enhancements. Our goal is to provide a tailored approach that addresses the root causes of your concerns and supports your journey to recovery
Goodsky does not provide psychiatric prescribing or medication management. We do not prescribe, supervise, reduce or adjust medication. Any medication decisions remain with your existing GP or psychiatrist.
Where appropriate and with your consent, our team can coordinate with your treating medical professionals so that your Goodsky program complements your existing care. Goodsky is not a hospital, acute psychiatric service or substitute for medical supervision.
Yes, we provide follow-up support after completing the program to ensure your continued progress and well-being. This support may include ongoing check-ins, access to our practitioners for follow-up sessions, and resources to help you maintain the gains you’ve made during your time with us. Our aim is to offer you a seamless transition back into your daily life while supporting your long-term mental health journey.
Our depression treatment programs at Goodsky are designed to address a wide range of depression types and disorders, including:
Our programs are tailored to your specific needs, offering a personalised approach to each type of depression to help achieve lasting recovery.
Consider taking our depression test to find out more about your depression, anxiety and stress severity.
Our programs provide comprehensive treatment for all types of anxiety disorders, which can be long-lasting, severe, and debilitating. We specialise in treating:
To better understand your specific condition, consider taking our anxiety test, which can help gauge the severity of your depression, anxiety, and stress.
We treat a wide range of trauma types, including but not limited to childhood trauma, complex trauma, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), and trauma related to specific events such as accidents, abuse, loss, or medical trauma. Our programs are designed to address both recent and long-standing trauma, using a bottom-up approach that focuses on healing the underlying injury, not just alleviating symptoms. This method is particularly effective for those who have found limited success with traditional talk therapy.
Consider taking our PTSD test or Childhood Trauma Test to find out more about your trauma.
Yes, there is a test you can take. The DASS 21 (Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale) is an excellent self-reporting tool that you can complete online without providing personal details. It is widely considered one of the most reliable tests for assessing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.
Yes, we provide online trauma assessments, including the PCL-5 (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist) and the ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) test. These simple tests can be completed anonymously from the comfort of your home. They are designed to help you understand the impact of trauma on your mental health and explore how our personalised programs can support your healing journey.
Equine therapy, or equine-assisted psychotherapy, is a popular therapy among our retreat patients for managing mental health challenges such as depression, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and more. At Goodsky, our therapists are highly trained in the EAGALA model, ensuring that each session is conducted by a licensed mental health professional and a qualified equine EAGALA consultant.
With the most qualified equine therapy team in Australia and the largest facilities, we provide an ideal environment for effective reflection, projection, and connection. This approach helps you gain valuable insights into yourself and your relationships.
Yes, we offer family therapy and support services to help families navigate the challenges associated with mental health conditions. Our family therapy sessions are designed to improve communication, understanding, and relationships within the family unit, providing a supportive environment for healing. We also provide guidance and resources to family members to help them better support their loved one’s recovery journey.
We do not provide detox services or support rapid withdrawal from heavy drug (illicit or pharmaceutical) or alcohol use during our residential program. Additionally, we do not offer critical or acute inpatient care. We recommend that such care be completed in a private hospital before starting our program, and we can suggest appropriate hospital programs if needed.
Yes, we strive to accommodate people with disabilities or special needs. Our retreat facilities are designed to be accessible, and we will work with you to provide any necessary support or modifications to ensure a comfortable and supportive experience. Please let us know about your specific needs in advance so we can make the appropriate arrangements.
Yes, we offer programs tailored to specific age groups, including young adults, adults, and seniors. Each program is customised to address the unique challenges and needs of different age groups, ensuring the most effective approach to mental health support and recovery. Whether you’re a young adult facing unique life transitions or a senior dealing with age-related concerns, we provide specialised care designed to support your journey to wellness.
Absolutely. At Goodsky, we are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for everyone, including LGBTQIA+ individuals. Our team practices cultural competency and sensitivity, ensuring that all clients feel respected, supported, and understood. We celebrate diversity and are dedicated to offering personalised care that acknowledges and honours each individual’s unique identity and experiences.
At Goodsky, protecting your privacy and confidentiality is our highest priority. We adhere to strict confidentiality policies and comply with all relevant privacy laws to safeguard your personal information. All communications, records, and sessions are handled with the utmost discretion, and access to your information is limited to authorised personnel only. Additionally, our facilities and online platforms are designed to ensure a private and secure environment for your care.
No, your attendance at our retreat is completely confidential. We do not disclose any information about your participation to employers, family members, or anyone else without your explicit consent. Your privacy is paramount, and we ensure all aspects of your care remain confidential, allowing you to focus on your healing without concern.
No, Goodsky is not affiliated with any religious organisation. As an evidence-based mental health retreat, we are committed to providing whole-person care that respects and supports all individuals, regardless of their beliefs or spiritual practices.
While we do not have a religious affiliation, we recognise that spirituality can be an important aspect of healing for many people. If you wish to incorporate spirituality into your treatment, whether through a particular religious tradition, connecting with nature, or exploring other spiritual practices, we are happy to accommodate your personal preferences.
At Goodsky, we welcome and respect everyone, providing a safe and inclusive environment where all individuals can focus on their healing journey, no matter who they are or what they believe in.
It’s essential that your loved one decides for themselves when they are ready to seek treatment for their mental health. While it can be difficult to watch someone you care about hesitate to take this step, the best thing you can do is offer your unconditional support and let them know that when they are ready, you will be there to help.
If you believe your loved one could benefit from speaking with a professional, we can help connect you with a trusted counsellor or intervention service to explore available treatment options.
Remember, it’s also crucial to look after your own mental health during this time. Engaging with a psychologist or mental health professional can provide you with the support you need to maintain your well-being while navigating this challenging situation.
Private, one-to-one care for people living with the ongoing effects of trauma.
This retreat provides a calm, contained environment where safety comes first. Care is personalised and paced to support nervous system regulation, recovery and long-term stability — especially for those who have not found relief through standard approaches.
Personalised support for adults experiencing anxiety, depression or emotional exhaustion.
This retreat is designed for people who feel stuck, overwhelmed or worn down by ongoing mental health challenges. Care is delivered one-to-one, allowing space to rest, recalibrate and begin recovery without pressure or group-based settings.
Individualised support for teenagers in a safe, respectful environment.
This program offers one-to-one care tailored to the needs of young people experiencing anxiety, mood challenges, sleep issues or emotional distress. The focus is on trust, stability and support — with care designed to feel age-appropriate, non-clinical and reassuring for both teens and their families.
Structured mental health support that fits into everyday life.
The outpatient program is designed for people who need consistent, personalised care without stepping away from home or work. Support is delivered one-to-one, with continuity and structure that allows progress while remaining connected to daily life. Available in Australia and New Zealand.
If you would like to discuss our results and how we can help you or your family member please reach out. This could be the first step to a better life.
