Brisbane Centre for Postnatal Disorder

About Brisbane Centre for Postnatal Disorder

Postnatal Mental Health Support in Brisbane

Established in 1991, the Brisbane Centre for Postnatal Disorder (BCPND) at Belmont Private Hospital is a purpose-built, 14-bed inpatient unit dedicated to postnatal depression, perinatal anxiety and parenting mental health challenges. Following a recent facility upgrade, our centre now offers modern private ensuite rooms, parent-baby lounges and a landscaped garden, located around 20 minutes from Brisbane CBD in a discreet, tranquil setting.

Our multidisciplinary team — including psychiatrists, psychologists, general medicine physicians, social workers and specialist mental health nurses with over 50 years' combined experience — supports mothers and parents through pregnancy, the postnatal period, and challenges related to loss and early childhood, using structured, evidence-based therapies. Assistance and education programs also involve partners and family, to support the whole family unit.

Postnatal depression affects around 1 in 7 Australian mothers, and perinatal anxiety affects a similar number (Beyond Blue estimates). Our multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, psychologists, mental health nurses and maternal-child health specialists helps mothers manage symptoms, rebuild confidence, and develop the skills to care for themselves and their baby — with education and support extended to partners and the wider family.

The BCPND unit assists mothers to adapt to the biological, psychological and social aspects of their disorder in a supportive and responsive environment. It also helps women experiencing mood disorders including anxiety and depression, in both pregnancy and postnatally.

We provide an environment that is supportive and responsive to mothers’ needs, as well as the needs of their baby and those close to them. Assistance and education programs also consider patients’ partners in order to support the family unit. Our unit is purpose-built for mothers and babies, with single ensuited rooms and nursery accommodation.

Why Choose Belmont Private for Postnatal Depression

• Who is BCPND for? The program supports women, parents, same-sex couples and surrogate mothers who are:
  • Experiencing postnatal depression, perinatal anxiety, or related mood or hormonal challenges
  • Facing attachment or bonding difficulties with their baby
  • Dealing with grief or loss
  • Seeking support with the challenges of parenting, including identity changes
• Purpose-built, 14-bed mother-baby unit: A dedicated inpatient program for postnatal depression, perinatal anxiety, and parenting mental health challenges.
• Experienced multidisciplinary team: Psychiatrists, psychologists, general medicine physicians, social workers and mental health nurses, with a combined 50+ years' experience.
• Modern, purpose-built facility: Private ensuite rooms, parent-baby lounges, play areas and a landscaped garden — with space for partners and children to visit.
• Family-centric care: Support and education extended to partners and the wider family, not just the patient.
• Structured daily programs: Individual and group therapy, psychoeducation and allied health activities tailored to perinatal recovery.
• Dedicated nursery: Overnight infant care by experienced staff, supporting rest — an important factor given the role sleep deprivation can play in postnatal depression.
• Ongoing support: Day programs and community follow-up to support the transition back to daily life after discharge.

Programs

Our core evidence-based program for inpatients and day patients is Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) for Mothers, a structured group program with sessions held twice weekly. Free day-care for infants under 12 months is available during sessions.

To build parenting skills and confidence, we also offer two evidence-based parenting programs: Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) and Circle of Security.

Our allied health team also draws on CBT, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) approaches, alongside a broader suite of therapeutic and educational activities, tailored to individual patient needs.

Please contact our team to confirm latest program offerings.

Referral Pathway

A referral from a GP or treating doctor is required to access BCPND. Referrals can be sent to our admissions team at bel.bcpnd@aurorahealth.com.au. Once received, a member of our team will contact you for an over-the-phone assessment and health fund check.

The program is generally structured as an inpatient stay including both group and individual therapy, alongside parenting support and advice. On discharge, this is followed by group therapy and telephone support, with a transition into one of our day programs where appropriate.

For admission enquiries, our nursing team can be reached directly on 07 3398 0238, or contact the Belmont Private Hospital Admissions and Assessment team on 1800 700 274.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is postnatal depression? 

Postnatal depression (PND) is a mood disorder that can affect mothers in the weeks or months after giving birth, causing persistent sadness, anxiety, exhaustion or difficulty bonding with the baby. It's treatable with the right clinical support.

What's the difference between the "baby blues" and postnatal depression? 

The baby blues are short-lived (a few days) and common in the first week after birth. Postnatal depression lasts longer, is more intense, and typically needs professional treatment.

Can I bring my baby with me for treatment? 

Yes. BCPND is a purpose-built mother-baby unit — babies can stay with mothers in ensuite rooms, and a dedicated nursery is available for overnight care.

How do I get admitted to BCPND? 

A referral from a GP or treating doctor is required. Referrals can be sent to our admissions team, who will arrange a phone assessment and health fund check. Visit our referral page for the full process, or make a mental health enquiry to speak with our team first on our details below.

Is treatment covered by private health insurance or DVA? 

Coverage depends on your policy and level of cover. Eligible veterans with a DVA White Card can access fully funded mental health care. Contact our admissions team to confirm your specific cover.

Do partners get involved in treatment? 

Yes. Family-centred care is core to the program — partners are included in education sessions to support the whole family unit during recovery.

What therapies and programs are offered?

The program includes Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Mothers, Triple P and Circle of Security parenting programs, and allied health support drawing on CBT, ACT and DBT approaches, alongside structured daily group and individual therapy. However please chat with our team to confirm latest offerings.

In Her Own Words: Taryn's Story

Individual experiences vary. This video reflects one patient's personal account and is not a guarantee of outcomes for all patients.

• Perinatal