Who we are 

The Specialist Mood Disorder service provides a range of treatments and programs for people currently accessing Gold Coast public mental health services with treatment resistant mental health conditions. 

What we do  

We specialise in Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS, and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) to treat conditions of depression, mania, delirium, and psychosis.  

Modern ECT is an evidence-based, effective treatment for several mental health conditions including major depression, bipolar disorder, and psychotic illness such as schizophrenia. Delivery methods (electronic technology) and improved anaesthetics have increased the safety, quality, and comfort for the ECT patient.  

rTMS is a mild form of brain stimulation. Magnetic fields, generated by a simple coil placed on the head, are used to stimulate a small area on the surface of the brain. In rTMS, pulses are given repeatedly for therapeutic effect. A session of rTMS typically takes 15 to 45 minutes and is given on consecutive weekdays for both inpatients and outpatients. Unlike ECT, the patient is fully awake and does not require an anaesthetic. This treatment is currently available for patients experiencing treatment resistant depression.  

We also provide specialised clinics for antipsychotic depot injections and intranasal ketamine for those with treatment-resistant depression. 

Additionally, our Specialist Mood Disorder Service offers in-depth assessments and education programs, including Mood School for clinicians and Mood Matters group for consumers.  

Who can access this service? 

Our services are available to adults with treatment-resistant mental health conditions.  

How to access this service  

Current patients of Gold Coast Health’s mental health services can be referred by their treating teams into this service. New referrals into Gold Coast Health’s mental health services are through 1300 MH CALL on 1300 64 22 55.