This is a hardware secure program. The program provides intensive mental health services, special needs mental health services, social and life skills. Youth are also provided substance abuse treatment as indicated. Youth must have a DSM-IV diagnosis above and beyond conduct disorder and oppositional defiant disorder, including GAF scores ranging from 30 to 60. Youth who are currently experiencing hallucinations, delusions, or who are actively suicidal are not eligible for the program. The program model is based upon cognitive behavioral treatment, and youth should have the intellectual ability to comprehend and respond to this treatment approach. A licensed psychiatrist completes psychiatric assessments, and also provides monthly follow ups. The program provides weekly individual therapy, daily group therapy, and monthly family therapy. Sneakers, socks, and undergarments are required.

Gulf Academy also serves boys that may be classified as needing intensive medical overlay services. The ability to accept these youth is based on bed availability. The scope of medical services provided includes insulin dependent diabetics, renal disease, sickle cell anemia, HIV/AIDS, heart disease, etc. (To be approved by the Office of Health Services prior to admission) Medical services not provided are intravenous therapy, gastric tube maintenance (including feeding tubes), skilled observation treatments required more than every 2 hours, medical conditions determined to be acute and emergent in nature, stage 3 and stage 4 open wounds, and contagious infections diseases. The average length of stay is 9 to 12 months.

Gulf Academy (school number 514181) is a Type 1 program offering English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and one elective course.The elective course is typically used to provide additional reading assistance to needy students or vocational training.

Education and vocational services are provided through the Pinellas County School District.