Gulf and Lake Academy is a 105-bed moderate risk residential commitment program that provides specialized mental health treatment services for males and females ages 12 to 18. Located in Land O' Lakes, Florida, the facility is structured so that the male and female populations are separate and distinct. Gulf Academy is comprised of 45 male beds while Lake Academy is comprised of 60 female beds. The length of stay in the program ranges from nine to twelve months.

Gulf and Lake Academy is a contracted provider with the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice who initiates all program referrals. Gulf and Lake Academy is contracted to provide intensive mental health and mental health overlay services. Program services include:

	Comprehensive mental health and medical diagnostic assessments upon admission
	Individual and group mental health treatment services
	Comprehensive psychological and psychiatric evaluations as deemed appropriate
	Social and life skills training to include victim awareness, employability skills, substance abuse and gang prevention groups
	On-site educational services through the Pasco County School System
	On-site recreational services
	On-site and off-site employment opportunities for youth
	On-site medical services
	Comprehensive case management services to implement individual performance plans
	Care and custody services delivered through a structured behavior management system
	Family system intervention and treatment services

Gulf and Lake Academy opened its doors on June 27, 2000 to serve youth. During their first annual Quality Assurance Review with the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, Gulf and Lake Academy received one of the highest possible scores---a "deemed" status rating---indicating overall commendable performance of the program.

John Myers, Facility Administrator welcomes visitors from the local community, often hosting them for special "VIP" lunches and program tours. According to Myers, "Visitors to our program walk away enlightened and impressed by the quality of services we provide. More importantly, they are moved by the impact we have on the lives of youth and often commit to be one of our Community Advisory Board members, business partners, or volunteers".