'Ai Pono Hawaii Eating Disorder Treatment Center

‘Ai Pono has over thirty-five years of experience in the treatment of eating disorders and is the longest running eating disorder treatment program in Hawaii. ‘Ai Pono supports individuals ages 13+ and offers resident treatment (for women and girls only), partial hospitalization (PHP), and in-person intensive outpatient programming (IOP). In addition, ‘Ai Pono offers virtual IOP for those located within the state of Hawaii.

‘Ai Pono’s Director of Eating Disorder Programming and Clinical Founder, Dr. Anita Johnston, PhD, is a world-renowned eating disorder expert. Dr. Johnston is known for her innovative approach to working with individuals struggling with eating disorders which involves the use of narrative and metaphor. Her book, Eating in the Light of the Moon, is utilized by providers and treatment centers across the globe, and she continues to speak and present internationally on how to approach the treatment of eating disorders with respect, empathy, and creativity.

‘Ai Pono focuses on the relationship between food and eating disorders by using a holistic approach to uncover and address the root of the eating disorder. The program views maladaptive eating behaviors as a symptom, and therefore necessarily addresses co-occurring issues that may impact the development and sustainment of eating disorders such as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and body dysmorphia.

‘Ai Pono is located on the beautiful island of Maui, Hawaii. The traditional Japanese style house provides a sense of calmness and tranquility. In addition, the vaulted ceilings and open floor plan allow for an abundance of natural light. ‘Ai Pono’s idyllic location enables clients to participate in off-site excursions. Clients can enjoy trips to local beaches, sacred cultural sites such as nearby Iao Valley, the beautiful Kula lavender farm, prominent shopping destinations, and more. The facility is located a short walk from the nearest beach and clients regularly participate in mindful walks to the beach.

The women’s residential program includes psychotherapy sessions three times weekly and psychoeducational groups daily. Family involvement is encouraged and will be supported by skilled clinicians as the treatment plan outlines. All meals and snacks are considered therapeutic groups and include the support of team members. Meals are individualized to meet each client's specific dietary needs. Clients meet with a Registered Dietitian on a weekly basis to review their meal plan and receive nutritional therapy.

‘Ai Pono’s virtual IOP serves individuals of all genders ages 13+. This program is designed to meet the client where they are in their recovery process by providing flexible options for frequency of support dependent on a client’s progress.

They offer a variety of therapeutic modalities including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and internal family systems (IFS), as well as trauma-informed therapy, eye movement therapy (EDMR), and somatic therapy. Additionally, they offer holistic therapies such as gentle yoga, mindfulness, sound therapy, and nature therapy to provide clients with a well-rounded experience designed to heal the mind and the body.

Website: aipono.com

Phone: 808-707-1018

Email: info@aipono.com