The shalom house model: A holistic approach to rehabilitation

The Shalom House Model represents a transformative and holistic approach to rehabilitation, focusing on addressing the root causes of addiction and destructive behaviours rather than merely treating their symptoms. Founded in Perth, Western Australia, Shalom House is recognised as one of the strictest yet most effective rehabilitation centres in the nation. Its methodology combines personal accountability, structured discipline, faith-based principles, and intensive community engagement.

The program works through a staged process, guiding individuals from crisis and instability to self-reliance and community reintegration. Each stage incorporates practical life skills, emotional regulation training, vocational preparation, and family restoration, ensuring participants develop the capacity to sustain change. Uniquely, the model integrates spiritual care with evidence-based therapeutic practices, providing a balanced pathway to recovery that acknowledges both psychological and moral dimensions of rehabilitation.

Results from the Shalom House experience demonstrate significant reductions in relapse rates, strengthened family relationships, and marked improvements in participants’ social and economic stability. By fostering a culture of honesty, respect, and responsibility, the program not only transforms individuals but also positively impacts their families and the wider community.

The Shalom House Model offers an alternative blueprint for rehabilitation that challenges conventional harm-minimisation approaches, advocating instead for complete life transformation. This presentation will detail the program’s philosophy, structure, outcomes, and potential applications in broader rehabilitation contexts.

Peter Lyndon-James is the Founder and CEO of Shalom House, widely regarded as Australia’s strictest rehabilitation centre. Drawing from his own lived experience of addiction and incarceration, Peter developed a holistic, faith-based model that addresses the root causes of destructive behaviour. Since its inception, Shalom House has helped countless men rebuild their lives, restore family relationships, and reintegrate into society as contributing members. Peter is a sought-after speaker, author, and advocate for transformative rehabilitation.