Australian men seek mental health treatment in Bali at private clinic

Ascendant Bali, a private mental health and addiction clinic, offers a discreet option for Australian men seeking treatment. Run by Australian psychologist Zahra Ciardi, the clinic operates from a three-level villa with a private chef, pool, and ocean view, treating one client at a time. It accommodates 18 clients annually, with costs ranging from US$12,000 to US$15,000 per week. The clinic's setup is designed for men who might avoid traditional therapy, offering a "7/21 method" that includes seven disciplines of health over 21 to 28 days, incorporating EMDR, CBT, neurofeedback, somatic work, hypnotherapy, and IV therapy, supported by a psychiatrist, dietician, somatic therapist, and personal trainer. This approach provides an intensive, one-on-one environment, which can be beneficial for men who struggle in group settings. The clinic addresses issues like burnout, which in men often manifests as irritability, sleep problems, and increased arguments, rather than overt exhaustion. Ciardi suggests that anger is often a socially accepted symptom of distress for Australian men. The clinic's model offers a private, high-performance retreat, allowing men a narrative for their treatment that may be more acceptable than traditional therapy.