A journey from self-destruction to self-discovery

Ali Ademi’s story of resilience, recovery, and purpose

After years of trauma, addiction, and loss, Ali found the strength to rebuild his life through the support of a compassionate team, a sense of community, and a commitment to long-term healing.

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90-day residential rehab

Long-term community support

Recovery coaching by lived experience

Trauma-informed care model

Family involvement in recovery

Peer accountability

Focus on mental health and addiction

Personalised care plans

li Ademi, The Hader Clinic’s Program Coordinator
The weight of the past

Addiction shaped by trauma, loss, and disconnection

From an early age, Ali struggled with a deep sense of not belonging. His parents’ separation left a lasting impact; by the time he reached his teenage years, depression, suicidal thoughts, and the devastating loss of a close friend pushed him further into a world of self-destruction.

“I felt like I was the director of my own movie, pretending to be someone I wasn’t.” 

It wasn’t just substances that took hold of him, but a deep-rooted pain that left him feeling hopeless and trapped.

A life consumed by addiction

Chaos, crime, and a breaking point

Ali’s addiction took him into dark and dangerous places. He used drugs to escape the pain, but it only left him feeling more isolated. He became trapped in a cycle of addiction, crime, and risky behaviour, pushing away family and friends. The loss of identity, the criminal lifestyle, and the emotional damage all piled up until Ali reached a breaking point.

The signs of a life unravelling

Ali’s addiction took him into dark and dangerous places. He used drugs to escape the pain, but it only left him feeling more isolated. He became trapped in a cycle of addiction, crime, and risky behaviour, pushing away family and friends. The loss of identity, the criminal lifestyle, and the emotional damage all piled up until Ali reached a breaking point.

A turning point: finding the courage to change

Ali’s recovery journey began with a choice

Ali’s decision to seek help was the beginning of a long road. Support from others in recovery helped him believe a different life was possible.

A close-up of hands resting anxiously in a lap, reflecting the emotional challenges faced during addiction and the personal recovery journeys shared in client stories.

Reaching rock bottom

Final suicide attempt

Ali’s lowest point came after his final suicide attempt. It was then that his family intervened and helped him find the courage to ask for help. This moment was the first step toward change.

Empty chairs in a clinic in-take waiting room.

Entering treatment

90-day program at Hader Clinic

Ali began his journey in a 90-day residential program, where he faced his fears, learned to be honest with himself, and accepted the support of a community who understood his pain.

A softly lit bedroom with a neatly made bed and a worn leather duffel bag on the floor, bathed in morning light — symbolising a renewed commitment to long-term recovery.

Long-term commitment

18-month community stay

After completing the program, Ali stayed connected for another 18 months, building the foundations of a new life and helping others along the way.

A man shares his health progress with a group of people seated in a circle during a recovery meeting, reflecting the supportive community and personal journeys told through client stories.

Becoming a mentor

Program Coordinator role

Ali’s journey came full circle when he joined The Hader Clinic as a Program Coordinator, guiding others through the same process that transformed his life.

The programs that helped Ali rebuild his life

A pathway to recovery built on comprehensive support

Ali’s journey was shaped by the different programs at The Hader Clinic. Each one played a vital role in his long-term recovery and lasting change.

Hospital detox program

Ali’s journey began with medically supervised detox and 24/7 care at the Geelong facility.

Transitional housing program

Ali’s long-term stability was supported through structured housing and community.

Counselling services

One-on-one counselling helped Minh confront the roots of his addiction and learn healthy coping strategies.

Hader@Home aftercare

Ali stayed connected after discharge through digital support and continued engagement.

Family Program

Ali’s family participated in therapy and education, helping them heal and understand addiction.

Specialist care for addiction, trauma, and mental health

Specialist care for addiction, trauma, and mental health

i’s recovery was strengthened by targeted services that addressed the specific challenges he faced with substances and mental health.

Drug rehab services

Ali’s care focused on meth and ecstasy rehab support, addressing the specific impact of these substances.

Dual diagnosis support

Ali’s addiction was intertwined with depression and trauma. Dual diagnosis care helped address both issues together.

Inpatient rehab program

A safe, structured setting gave Ali the space to heal and rebuild his life with clinical supervision.

Outpatient rehab program

Ali accessed flexible, ongoing support through outpatient services as part of his long-term care.

Relapse prevention support

Ali received tools and strategies to manage triggers and maintain long-term recovery.

A life rebuilt through resilience

“I am living proof that miracles happen”

“Miracle” is just about the right word for it. We’ll let Ali tell you about his life today in his own words:

“I am living a life I once thought was impossible. I have rebuilt my relationships with my family. My parents who once struggled to understand me now seek advice and support from me.

I owe my recovery journey to myself, but I also owe so much to The Hader Clinic. Without them, I wouldn’t be here today, writing this.

The doctors, the recovery coaches, the nurses, the entire team — each one played a role in guiding me back to myself and supporting me when I needed it most. They saw potential in me when I couldn’t see it myself, and their belief in me never wavered. For that, I’ll always be grateful.

To anyone who is struggling with addiction or mental health issues, I want to say this: Your story is yours. You don’t have to remain trapped by your past.”

Ali Ademi, The Hader Clinic’s Program Coordinator
More journeys of courage and change

Discover more real recovery stories

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Minh’s story of recovery, resilience, and belief

After 32 years of addiction, Minh Pham found hope, healing, and a new path at The Hader Clinic. His journey is a testament to the power of community, compassion, and courage.

Peter El-Khouri’s journey from addiction to purpose

After multiple relapses, Peter found long-term recovery with Hader. Read how therapy, community and clinical care helped him reclaim his life.

Ready when you are

Recovery is possible. Whether you’re taking your first step or returning to treatment, we’re here to walk beside you. Reach out when you’re ready.

Take a free online assessment

Take a quick, private quiz to see if rehab could help and explore safe support options.

Book a free chat

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Call us now

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Recovery spaces designed for healing

Our facilities and locations support every step of recovery

From our private hospital in Geelong to our residential centre in Essendon, each Hader Clinic facility is designed with care and comfort in mind. We offer medically supervised detox, residential rehab, and long-term support options. Our welcoming, secure spaces provide the foundation for your journey to recovery.

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
Accredited care you can trust

Nationally recognised programs and standards

The Hader Clinic holds full hospital licensing, ISO 9001 certification, and accreditation under the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards.

Testimonials

Client stories and testimonials

Real voices, real journeys. Read how clients and their families found support, transformation, and lasting recovery at The Hader Clinic.

Care that treats the whole person

Our holistic approach to recovery

At The Hader Clinic, we address the whole person — not just the addiction. Our programs combine therapy, community, and medical care to support long-term healing.

A resident in one of our creative rehab programs, sitting in the garden and painting floral art.
Dr. Yohannes, the resident clinical psychologist at The Hader Clinic’s private hospital.
The people behind the care

Meet the team who walk alongside you

Our dedicated team of medical experts, therapists, and recovery coaches combine lived experience with clinical knowledge to help you reclaim your life.

Learn more about us

About The Hader Clinic

For over 25 years, The Hader Clinic has helped thousands of people rebuild their lives through compassionate, evidence-based addiction and mental health care.

A sober former client, his back to us, enjoying tea on his porch in the early morning sunlight.
Take the first step today

Your recovery starts with a conversation

No pressure, no judgement — just support. Reach out to our team today to learn more about treatment options and start your journey toward healing.

Speak to someone who understands

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