What Is A Life Skills Academy (LSA)

During the 1960’s, therapeutic communities were initially developed to address substance abuse. They have since evolved to teach basic skills necessary for successful living, such as general behaviour, attitude, life skills, family values, education, and vocational training. Hence the title: “Life Skills Academy”.

Research has shown that long-term recovery facilities are most effective in the treatment of substance abuse and its causes. Students in a Life Skills Academy are members in a family setting, not patients in an institution. They play significant roles in managing the LSA and act as positive role models for others to follow. High expectations and high commitment from both students and staff support positive change. Insights into problems are gained through group and one-on-one interaction; however, learning through experience, and failing and succeeding and experiencing the consequences of both, are the most potent influences toward achieving lasting change.

While LSAs employ praise, positive reinforcement, example and role modeling, they also employ potential dismissal, shame, punishment and guilt in order to stimulate personal development and change. The approach is similar to that of Alcoholics Anonymous. While they have distinct differences, both share the premise that the capacity to heal and change lies within the individual, and that healing occurs primarily through therapeutic relationships with similar others. Following the motto “Each one Teach one” and under the guidance of trained staff, senior students teach junior students. While they are being taught needed principles, seniors advance in responsibility and leadership.

To graduate from the LSA, both the staff and the graduating student must agree that the graduate has the ability to master “right living” and is able to successfully handle life’s challenges.