Academy House

A Structured Living Environment for Adults with Mental Illness

Academy House is a 21-bed residential treatment facility offering private rooms for adults over the age of 24 with severe and ongoing mental health illnesses such as schizophrenia, schizo-affective disorder, and clinical depression. We are unable to assist those who are actively addicted to narcotics or alcohol or diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. We provide a structured living environment with 24-hour supervision and medication management. Academy House Community Residence has been caring for individuals with psychiatric disorders for over 45 years.

From Independent Life Skills to Education and Arts-Based Therapy

At Academy House, our specially-trained on-site staff provide Independent Life Skills Training to teach critical skills such as cooking, laundering, time management, computer literacy, and budgeting. We work closely with each resident to teach coping skills and anxiety management, goal setting, and progress monitoring. And when appropriate, we employ methods taught by the Hearing Voices Network to help residents cope with their symptoms. Arts programs such as Art and Dance Movement Therapy provide opportunities for additional avenues of psychiatric care and self-enrichment.

A Location Rich in Mental Health Resources

The location of Academy House in Dutchess County, the heart of New York State’s Hudson Valley, means our residents enjoy access to a broad range of community-based mental health resources.

Many Academy House residents receive individual psychotherapy, group therapy, vocational/educational counseling and support, and other services through Access, an agency that has been providing mental health services for more than fifty years. Another local organization, the Wellness Center, provides support in activities of daily living, learning, working, and socializing.

Job Training & Volunteer Opportunities for Residents

Academy House residents have the option to participate in the VESID Job training program or in PEOPLe, Inc. a non-profit organization that advocates for change and promotes recovery and independence within the mental health system. They also have the option of attending classes at a number of Hudson Valley locations, including Dutchess Community College, Vassar College, Marist College, or Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute.

As part of its commitment to a stronger community, the Academy House supports participation in local volunteer opportunities where our patients can meet new friends, share talents, and learn new skills. Opportunities include work with organizations like the Poughkeepsie Farm Project, HANDS ON!, the Red Cross, the Alzheimer’s Association, and local food pantries.

Providing Compassionate Care to the Mentally Ill

At Academy House, we believe people with mental health issues can live a happy, productive and healthy life. We treat all residents with dignity and compassion to increase their self-confidence, as they learn new and different ways to manage their mental illness.