Learn more about The Hader Clinic

About us

Discover how our accredited, trauma-informed programs help individuals and families achieve long-term recovery from addiction and mental health conditions.

Take a self-assessment or speak to someone now, with no pressure to commit.

83% sobriety rate after 90-day program

Accredited by NSQHS and ISO 9001:2015

Inpatient, outpatient, and digital care

Immediate admission with funding support

Who we are and how we help

We believe every person deserves the chance to reclaim their life with the support of expert care, compassion, and clinical excellence.

The Hader Clinic is a nationally accredited addiction and mental health treatment provider with decades of experience. More than that, we are a place of hope. Many of our staff have walked this path themselves, and we understand how hard it is to reach out for help. Our programs combine clinical excellence with compassion, giving every individual the support they need to reclaim their life.

The values behind our care

Our values shape everything we do

Our values are realised every day through the way we care, listen, and walk alongside each client. We believe in meeting people where they are, supporting them without judgment, and creating a path to recovery that feels personal, respectful, and safe. These values are the foundation of every program we offer.

Compassion

We deliver non-judgemental support to every person, regardless of their story or background.

Clinical excellence

Expect best-practice treatment delivered by AHPRA-registered staff and accredited clinicians.

Continuity

From detox to aftercare, we provide step-by-step support for long-term recovery.

Personalisation

No two recoveries are the same. We tailor treatment to for the individual, not the other way around.

How we began and what we've built

A legacy of transformation

The Hader Clinic was founded in 1996 by Richard Smith, who built it from the ground up after finding his own path to recovery. What began as a small, peer-led support initiative has evolved into a national leader in private addiction treatment. We now offer a licensed detox hospital, residential rehab, transitional housing, outpatient care, and digital aftercare. We’ve even introduced innovations like equine therapy, telehealth counselling, and structured family programs.

What your experience looks like

The Hader Clinic experience

Our holistic programs integrate clinical care, counselling, creative therapies, and family involvement, all within a safe, structured environment.

Hospital-grade detox

Our Geelong facility is a licensed private hospital offering 24/7 medical supervision and medication-assisted detox protocols.

Residential rehabilitation

Our Essendon campus provides structured, community-focused rehab with group therapy, equine sessions, and trauma-informed care.

Post-rehab and digital support

Hader at Home and transitional housing ensure clients continue receiving care after discharge, with a 72% enrolment rate in aftercare.

Our commitment to inclusion

We offer culturally safe, inclusive, and non-judgemental support to all people, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTQ+ clients, veterans, first responders, neurodivergent individuals and people of all faiths and creeds.

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How we measure success

We measure success by long-term recovery

We know that recovery is about more than quitting substances — it’s about healing, connection, and building a meaningful life. That’s why we measure success not just by sobriety, but by self-worth, community, and personal growth. Your rehab may include on physical, cognitive, emotional, spiritual and social therapy, all delivered over 400+ hours of assorted one-on-one and group sessions. We’ll give you your best chance at long-term sobriety. Just take a look at our stats.

90%

Program completion rate for clients enrolled in 60- and 90-day rehab

83%

12-month sobriety rate for clients who complete our 90-day program (national average is 35%)

Your privacy and protection

Confidential, respectful, and accountable care

We are fully compliant with the Privacy Act 1988 and Health Records Act 2001 (VIC), but our commitment to your safety goes beyond policy. From your very first call to your final session, you’ll be treated with respect, empathy, and confidentiality.

Stories from our community

Stories of recovery, told by those who’ve lived it

Many of our staff are former clients, and many of our clients go on to thrive. Read firsthand accounts of transformation and trust in the power of lived experience.

Clinical accreditations and standards

We meet the highest national standards

We are fully licensed, accredited, and compliant across clinical, governance, and safety domains, including NSQHS, ISO9001:2015, and the Victorian Department of Health.

Our holistic model

Addiction treatment that treats more than addiction

Our holistic care model blends medical support with therapies like psychiatry, yoga, and equine sessions to support healing across body, mind, spirit, and relationships at every stage of recovery.

Meet the team behind your care

Meet the people who walk with you through recovery

Our team includes AHPRA-registered doctors, therapists, counsellors, and recovery coaches — many with lived experience — offering professional, compassionate support through every step of treatment.

Where our programs take place

Designed for comfort, connection, and clinical care

We operate two main facilities to support every stage of recovery. Our licensed private hospital in Geelong provides 24-hour medically supervised detox, while our residential rehab centre in Essendon offers structured daily therapy and holistic care. We also provide transitional housing and digital aftercare through our Hader@Home program.

Inpatient Rehabilitation Program and Transitional Housing program

Essendon
150-152 Cooper St, Essendon VIC 3040

Hospital Rehabilitation Centre for 28-Day Withdrawal & Detox Program

Geelong
6-8 Townsend Road,St Albans Park VIC 3219
Get in touch

Talk to us today about starting your recovery

Whether you’re enquiring for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to help. No pressure, no judgment — just honest answers and experienced care.

Speak to someone who understands

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