About Youth Prevention and Recovery Care (YPARC)

Austin Health's Youth Prevention and Recovery Care (YPARC) service is run in partnership with Mind Australia. It provides brief, intensive mental health support for young people in a home-like environment.

Young people aged 16 to 25 work with  medical staff, mental health clinicians, allied health professionals and people with mental health lived experience. Together, they support recovery and help prevent future mental health difficulties.

We also support families and carers through carer support and family consultation.

YPARC is a voluntary service. Young people choose whether they would like to participate in the program.

Our service has accommodation for up to 10 young people, who can stay for up to 28 days.

Client care

During your stay with us, you can:

• Take part in an evidence-based group program that combines proven therapeutic approaches with shared learning and support from peers.
• Receive personalised support to help you identify and work towards your recovery goals.
• Learn about mental health, wellbeing and medication.
• Build confidence and develop new skills through activities such as exercise, relaxation, art and music.
• Access support from medical staff and other members of your care team.

Accessing our care

We accept referrals for young people aged 16 to 25 years.

YPARC is not an acute inpatient service. However, we can support young people experiencing a broad range of mental health challenges.

Currently, referrals are only accepted from Local Area Mental Health Services.

Catchment area

Our catchment includes the following local government areas:

• Banyule
• Darebin
• Boroondara
• Whittlesea
• Yarra
• Nillumbik
• Manningham
• Whitehorse
• Maroondah
• Knox
• Yarra Ranges
• Parts of Monash

Referral information for health professionals

Referrals are accepted Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4:30 pm.

Intake phone: 0403 280 136

Email: YPARCReferrals@austin.org.au