Summary of Services
- Offers mental health care, substance abuse treatment, and family counseling for at-risk youth
- Delivers individualized, developmentally appropriate treatment plans
- Supports reintegration into the community with a focus on long-term success
- Offers pathways to high school diplomas, college readiness, and vocational training
Supporting the Mental and Emotional Well-Being of At-Risk Youth
Operated by Youth Opportunity Investments, LLC, the St. Augustine Youth Academy is a 24-hour residential facility dedicated to serving at-risk youth through a range of therapeutic services. The program focuses on mental health care, substance abuse treatment, and family counseling, all delivered by a team of professionals, including licensed physicians, behavior analysts, and other behavioral health experts.
The academy serves 48 high-risk males ages 14 to 18 through its Mental Health Overlay Services (MHOS) program. This intensive treatment model addresses the emotional and psychological challenges that these young individuals face. Additionally, the academy offers a specialized Sexually Reactive Treatment Program, generally designed for males between the ages of 13 and 17.
Participants must meet specific criteria, including an IQ of 70 or above, to ensure the appropriateness and effectiveness of treatment. For older youth, the facility also reserves space for 16 males ages 18 to 21 who are enrolled in Substance Abuse Overlay Services, focusing on overcoming addiction and building coping strategies for long-term recovery.
Building a Strong Foundation for Life Beyond the Program
Each service offered at the St. Augustine Youth Academy is tailored to the individual's developmental needs, aiming not only to treat underlying issues but also to empower youth. An important component of the program is its emphasis on education. Through a partnership with The Florida Scholars Academy, residents have access to school-based academic programs designed to help them achieve academic success.
Youth can work toward graduating and are provided opportunities to pursue college or vocational training, laying a solid foundation for life after the program.
Serving Moderate-Risk Youth at the Hastings Facility
In addition to the St. Augustine location, Youth Opportunity Investments, LLC operates another facility known as Deep Creek Youth Academy, located at 765 E St. Johns Avenue, Hastings, FL 32145. This center accommodates moderate-risk youth between the ages of 12 and 19 who require support for mental health, behavioral challenges, or substance abuse issues.
Like its counterpart, Deep Creek Youth Academy provides individualized care in a secure and structured environment, ensuring youth receive the tools they need to move forward positively. For more information about the programs and services available at either facility, please get in touch with Kenneth Owens at Kenneth.Owens@youthopportunity.com or call (904) 347-2162.