The Stepped Care model of Mental Health focuses on linking you in with the right level of support that you need. The approach takes into account the bigger picture of your health looking at the whole person, including your physical, social and mental needs.

One of the main features of the model is that it is flexible – we know that the level of support you need will change over time, and if that happens, we change with you. A good way to think about this is ‘stepping up’ or ‘stepping down’ as your needs change. We stay with you along this journey. Emphasis is placed on the client only telling their story once, to make engaging with our mental health service a seamless and supportive experience. This means you can get what you need, without having to change care providers every time you step up or step down.

You can refer yourself, as well as friends and family members. You don’t need a General Practitioner (GP) referral to use this service, but it’s helpful to have your GP involved in your care. This service is free and confidential, but eligibility is determined by where you live or work.

You can access these services if you:

• Need support with your mental health or emotional well-being from a community service

• Unable to access or afford private mental health services (such as a private psychologist)

For more information contact:

STEPS on 1800378377 if you live or work in the cities of Boroondara, Knox, Manningham, Maroondah, Monash, Whitehorse or Yarra Ranges OR

Stepped Care services are funded by the Australian Government under the PHN program, so there is no cost for you to access the service. This program is delivered by healthAbility in partnership with other Inner East Community Health providers.