Lakeside Academy – Buffalo

We are so grateful to Lakeside Academy for helping us get back on track with our son, twice. He struggled for years with behavioral challenges and defiance that were exacerbated by cannabis addiction in high school. He… has also been in other treatment programs that were good, but the longer-term aspect of Lakeside Academy's program is important for adolescents. The care team and setting at LA were supportive and safe. He learned so many valuable skills through DBT therapy, reflections, group, and one on one sessions with his care team, counselors, and recovery coaches. They were all incredibly kind and caring human beings. We can't thank them enough. There are also plenty of field trips and activities. As a parent, it's a hard decision to choose a long-term care option for your struggling child and it was the best decision we've made. We had peace of mind knowing he was safe in good hands, and we were supported to heal and grow too. The second time through, our son graduated high-school and graduated from the Lakeside program. We are so proud of him. He fought going back and about three months into it (both times) he leaned into the process and chose to continue even after his 18th birthday and finished strong. We are all at a much better place than when he started. We've learned that what happens after the program is equally important in long-term sobriety success. There's a small halo effect with treatment and the journey continues beyond the program completion. Lakeside is one of the top treatment programs for teen boys in the country.

Our son was heavily addicted to cannabis and was dealing with urgent adolescence behavioral issues, Lakeside Academy's long term program has helped our son to manage sober living, and taught him valuable skills to cope… with his behavioral challenges. Their holistic and well balanced program that encompasses spiritual health, mental health, cognitive and physical health is extremely well suited and provides one of the best long term care programs available in the country. Lakeside's entire care team and staff provide exemplary care, empathy, patience, expertise and love to all their patients which played a very important role in our son's recovery and wellbeing. Lakeside's program also provides parents useful skills and strategies to help to deal with ongoing sober living and mental wellbeing for their sons. I would highly recommend Lakeside academy's program.

I do not even know where to begin. It all started when my son had to do distant learning in sixth grade because of Covid. He was super excited to be in middle school and then after seventh grade in person again started… going down a bad road with nicotine vapes and marijuana and alcohol and throughout the years, it just spiraled and went out of control, and then he had legal charges and some false accusations all because he was under the influence of marijuana and alcohol one night and that night changed his life. I didn’t know where to bring him because that summer I brought him to the hospital and then a couple week inpatient treatment center and then they released him out into the wild again and it was no help and it just got worse after that. I did my research for a while and then I found Lakeside Academy I looked at the reviews and it was Christian based and I was all for it. it took me a while to get him enrolled. I dragged my feet because I didn’t wanna lose my son. I felt like I was gonna lose my son, but looking back at it now if I didn’t bring him to Lakeside Academy , I would’ve completely lost my son in the wrong way like something tragic would’ve happened if I didn’t get him the help that he needed. I brought him into Lakeside Academy January 9, 2025 and he graduated 362 days later and finished the program. It took him 7 almost 8 months to finally not fight about him wanting to get pulled out early. I would not recommend pulling your son out early no matter what!! this program is a Godsend!! I appreciate every Staff from the care team to the school teachers to the mental health worker to the really sweet ladies that prepare them meals at Lakeside Academy . I am so thankful for them each and everyone I feel it was a miracle for my son’s life. He went in there an immature little boy and he graduated a young man. He was super skinny when he went in and he came out healthy and he grew half an inch and gained 30 pounds and is really respectful and he has a passion to help others and he has a relationship with Jesus Christ now before he wanted nothing to do with Church and now he’s planning to go on a missions trip with his youth group to Mexico this year and I’m so thankful in every way that Lakeside helped my son with mental health help and substance use and going to church and him meeting people along the journey that he could relate to and keep in touch with. I would recommend Lakeside Academy 100% to everyone I know that needed a place like this for their adolescence. Thank you so much for everything that you do Lakeside Academy you guys will forever be in my heart. I appreciate everything!!

“I can’t recommend Lakeside Academy enough. When my son was struggling with substance use and behavioral challenges, we were at a complete loss for where to turn. Enrolling him at Lakeside was one of the best decisions… we’ve ever made. The staff truly treated him like family from day one, even when he showed everyone he didn’t want to be there. They didn’t just see him as another resident—they invested in him personally, with genuine care, patience, and encouragement. The counselors, teachers, and support team worked tirelessly to address his needs, blending licensed therapy, faith-based guidance, and structured activities in a way that helped him rebuild his confidence, faith, and sense of purpose. The campus environment felt safe and supportive, like a real home away from home, with opportunities for growth through academics, outdoor adventures, and character development. Watching my son transform over the months was incredible—he came out stronger, more responsible, and with a renewed outlook on life. To the entire Lakeside team: thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You didn’t just help my son—you gave our family hope and healing. If you’re considering this program for your teen, know that the love and dedication here makes all the difference. God bless you all!”

I was very lucky to find a place at Lakeside Academy to send my son. The staff, counselors, and coaches truly helped him by understanding him and helping him through the tough times. My son didn't want to go, but after… five weeks of being there, I started to see a difference in my son. He loved being around other people his age who were dealing with the same struggles in life, and enjoyed interacting with the staff. The best thing he liked about Lakeside was that when he was doing well in the program, his team gave him higher responsibilities. As tough as it was from a parent point of view to send my son to Lakeside, I am thankful I sent him there. They worked with not just my son, but also myself and our family throughout his journey. This made it a little easier for when he graduated the program. The staff are truly a family, and for that I am extremely grateful.

The decisions surrounding substance and mental health treatment of self or a loved one is one of the most difficult decisions anyone ever has to make. It is important that treatment is a good fit for the patient.… Lakeside Academy is an effective long term substance use facility for adolescent males. The natural setting is healing itself. There are numerous physical and mental activities structured for healing, growth and development. The shining resource at Lakeside Academy is there staff. The staff take time to develop and model positive relationships and behaviors, this leads to growth and developing social boundaries. In addition, the mutual respect developed between staff and patients results in a genuine caring relationship that the boys can use as a guide throughout their lives!

Lakeside Academy is by far the best, most positive program I have had the pleasure and experience of being a part of.. my son went through the program and it completely changed his life, as well as mine.. I have never… met such amazing, caring, and humble people as the staff that cared for my son while he was there.. they treated him like family.. they genuinely loved him and cared about him and helped him through every trial and mistake in such a positive and loving way.. they never made him feel bad or less than.. they never undermined him or made him feel bad when he had his set backs.. instead they were there with him every step of the way.. building him up and making it know that he was worth it.. that he was worth saving.. I highly recommend this place to anyone who has children that are struggling with substance abuse, mental health issues, or both.. they will love your child and care for them in such an extremely passionate way.. my son has completely changed and I owe it to Lakeside Academy and all of the people there that were a part of his life and transformation.. they made him believe in himself.. thank you so much Lakeside Academy for being a part of our lives and for the amazing impact you have all made.. looking forward to visiting!! 🙂

This mental health facility has some flaws to work out. I called this facility to see about a family member getting treatment at the Buffalo Location for a teenager. Biggest flaw is the family member was going to be… turning 18 years old in a few weeks. Once they turned 18 years they would be sent to the adult facility in South Minneapolis, right in the middle of where concerns are located!! When asked about school plans that didn’t really have a secure plan in place. Well my family is so lucky to have found a place that really cares! They have been sober since April and graduated high school with the gracious help of the other facility. I truly believe without the other facility they would not have graduated for sure.

Lakeside academy is a ten star they are the best drug treatment center for teens going through a rough time in life. I was just amazed with the treatment my son got at lakeside academy. There staff is by far the best at… what they do. I have to say if it weren’t for them o don’t know where my son would be today and I thank lakeside academy for everything you guys have done!

I don't even know where to start! Lakeside definitely helped us with our son's last year as an adolescent and working through many of the issues that were present. Unfortunately he didn't graduate from lakeside and… signed himself out because he was 18 and no longer on probation or court ordered to be there. However he did graduate high-school which we have lakeside to thank for keeping him on track and putting all there work and faith into him. Our son spent 10 months at lakeside and even though he still is struggling some he had so many seeds planted and was so cared for by all staff. We truely could never thank them all enough for there support, love, and hard work. Not only were they there for our son, but they were also very much there and present for all our needs as well. I couldn't of asked for a better facility to trust with our son's needs and care!!! Thank you Lakeside!!!

Don’t send a 15-16yr old here

this place is so terrible for the mental health and happiness of your kid don’t ever send your kid here they just learn new ways to adapt and be sneaky

I was there for 10 months and it helped me grow in my sobriety, and in a lot more places. I got my family's trust back. It also helped me with my mental health along with sobriety, following that I also found Jesus,… witch really helped me through all of it. So may God bless all the staff and counselors that helped me through it.

I'm very grateful for Lakeside. It helped me so much not just being sober but in all aspects of my life, like spiritually, emotionally, physically, relationally, and intellectually. All the staff there are very caring… and helpful. All the activities and things they have to offer there, it's crazy. It is the best placement/treatment center I have have ever seen, been to, or heard of for youth.

Lakeside was integral to the success of our team on his journey to sobriety. The Godly men were positive mentors and examples that he needed. The staff truly care about the teens there. Thankful for the valuable service… they provide.

The staff at Lakeside Academy are amazing people and have so much care for the teens they work with. I highly recommend this place to anyone who is looking for help in their sobriety journey.

We couldn’t be more thankful to Lakeside academy for the love, support and guidance they have shown our son and family through such a tough time in our lives. Watching our son graduate and seeing the genuine love,… compassion and respect the staff and youth have for one another was empowering! Thank you Lakeside for all you have done not only for our son but to support our family! We are truly blessed to have walked this journey with you!

I loved the staff and the way they treated otherwise was so good overall I'm happy with what they are doing there.

This place saved my child! The staff is genuine, theenvironment is fulfilling, and they truly care about the lives of the children struggling with addiction.

So thankful for this place. Lakeside saved my son's life. He was hesitant at first and completed the program which took him 13 months and I'm so proud of him and the staff who had is back through out the program. Highly… recommend Lakeside and the staff. Thank you for everything you did for my son.

Lakeside Academy Buffalo, MN helped give us our Son Mason back. This was something that the 3 treatment facilities prior to Mason being accepted to Lakeside had failed to do, this, our family will forever be grateful… for! They gave Mason the tools & the knowledge to lead a sober life, the coping mechanisms to use when triggers should occur & how to keep his anger under control, which has been absolutely amazing to watch, he is like a different person They gave our entire family as a whole tools & coping mechanisms to help repair all of the broken pieces of our family that had occurred through the last 4 years of Masons addiction. While in treatment he was able to earn his high school diploma also, something that we didn't if that would ever happen, but it did, all because of Lakeside,their time & effort & Masons will to succeed. Forever grateful & thankful

I was in lakeside near a year and it changed my life drastically i went from getting arrested doing anything i can to numb myself, always being disobedient not truthful to my family friends, and especially myself also… doing things that could’ve gotten me either dead or in prison. I knew i needed help i was skeptical at first but after a month of settling in i started getting more in contact with god and everything just started looking up OF COURSE there’s mistakes and errors in one’s recovery ( it also takes time and patience) that’s expected but they help you in those hardships to do better and do have outlets, coping skills and resources you can find anywhere and or call at any time. It was a brotherhood and you had support and people for you there 100% at all times, i truly thank lakeside and especially my care team for helping me change my life completely and helping me to fix my relationships/burnt bridges.Overall your gonna get out of it what you put into it and you have the best time, place , environment, people, extra curricular activities and food to do it.

RE: Our Family’s Experience with Teen Challenge Luke was admitted into the Teen Challenge Program on June 21st, 2022. He was more than reluctant to begin his program work there but did so with courage and a… determination to persevere. It was our hope that he would emerge from the program as the energetic and positive young man that he was before his use of narcotics. This proved to be the case, and we could not be more thankful for this reality. How did this happen…, well we see several factors: Luke is a determined young man; bright, focused, and kindhearted. The Teen Challenge staff saw this in him; and sought to guide him in finding out what was causing him to escape, why he turned to drugs to numb his pain, to change his reality. Once this was determined the next step was to move forward, to put in place an action plan to get him back on track. Luke and the Teen Challenge staff both put in the time, with a stay of over 14 months, to find out what energized him. This is an important point, the approach the Teen Challenge takes is to find out what makes each individual happy, what brings them joy vs. a never-ending quest to explain why drug use is a bad idea. The staff at Teen Challenge were diligent in providing Luke with multiple opportunities to explore and consider what his interests are. The staff are a varied in their backgrounds and each shared with him their ideas and considerations for turning his young life around. Spiritually, Luke was exposed to well-meaning and solid worship and faith-based programming. We believe that God worked through the Teen Challenge Staff to share His love with him. The importance of this cannot be understated. We are so pleased that Teen Challenge is a faith-based program and believe that God used this program to make lasting change for Luke. Today, well we can only say that Luke is thriving. He is enrolled in school, taking remote classes through his local high school. He is employed as a welder with a great local company. Luke is actively participating in our nuclear family and looking out for his extended family. He is pursuing his hobbies and is looking great, a new wardrobe and dapper hair cut to boot! We cannot thank Mike Mahoney and his staff enough. The patience, talent, and perseverance they exhibited was not only impressive but well meant, authentic. Blessings to you all,

if it wasn't for Lakeside I'd be dead or in jail

This place has been one of the best places I’ve ever gone in my life before coming into Lakeside. I was making wrong decisions and causing big mistakes that I would regret later on. I made the decision to go into… Lakeside and I went in there thinking that I would only get through it by faking everything , but I was wrong. I made brothers along the way. which I still talk to till this day the staff are pretty nice. They have the best cook in there and they have the best therapist but the experience I had is something I will never forget they taught me more about the Lord and how to be a young adult I also enjoyed going to school there even though I hated school before going into Lakeside. The teachers are the best teachers I could’ve ever had. They made learning fun thing for me. I would’ve never thought in 1 million years I would like school, but Lakeside came across my path and saved me from the deep deep I was in.

Helped our son alot through this programs

My son was apart of the lakeside family for 9 months. The staff took my son to basketball games, twins games, and they did a lot of out door activities. The school got my son from failing awfully to back to a b average.… The program has a lot to offer and the Christian faith is very helpful. Mike Mahoney is a great counselor and handles one on one very well. He does a great job with the boys and their families.

We had both of our teenage boys attend lakeside. They both came in lost, distant and broken. They graduated from the program and many relationships have been restored and they are both living sober Christ centered… lifestyles now. The staff here is amazing and we are forever grateful for Lakeside Acadamy!

Lakeside saved my son's life AND gave us back our family. They gave every minute of every day investing into ALL of us mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.