Known as Birribi, meaning "A Crossing Place", the YSAS Residential Rehabilitation Service is a 15-bed residential rehabilitation program for young people aged 16 to 20 years. The program is located in Eltham, in new mud-brick premises on 14 acres of land.

The average program stay is 4 months, during which the young person progresses through six stages:

• Stage One is pre-admission, and comprises individualised tasks to prepare for admission.
• Stage Two lasts 2-3 weeks, and is focussed on settling into the program and establishing goals.
• Stage Three concentrates on intrapersonal issues and skill development concerning the management of emotions and relationships.
• The fourth Stage looks outward, towards community services and programs, with an emphasis on educational, vocational and recreational opportunities.
• In Stage Five, the young person spends increasing amounts of time pursuing activities in the community.
• Stage Six is post-discharge support.

The program comprises a mix of group and individual therapy, recreational, vocational and educational activities, with an overall focus on community living and shared responsibility.

For a virtual tour of the Birribi Unit, please click here.

Admission to the program is via completion of a referral form.

More detailed information and a referral pack are available by calling Birribi on 03 9430 2300.