‘Ohana Makamae Review
Located in the remote town of Hāna, on the gorgeous island of Maui, ‘Ohana Makamae, which means “precious family” in Hawaiian, has provided outpatient substance abuse treatment services since 1999. While driving the curvy highway that connects Hana to the larger town of Kahului can be a nauseating ordeal, the journey through the tropical rainforest is stunning and decked with glimmering waterfalls (and, yes, tourists).
In 2007, ‘Ohana Makamae opened a five-bed sober living home for adult males, called Hale Kūʻokoʻa. This is East Maui’s only sober living, located just outside of Hāna in Upper Nahiku. Both the outpatient programs and the sober living practice a unique approach to treatment by placing a strong emphasis on Hawaiian cultural values.
Accommodations and Food
The residents of Hale Kūʻokoʻa live in a white bungalow on manicured lawns, adorned with tropical foliage. Men are paired with a roommate in furnished rooms, complete with twin beds and dresser. If space permits, those who have been there longer get their own rooms. The length of stay for Hale Kūʻokoʻa residents is from three to six months.
Residents share a bathroom, buy their own groceries and cook meals in the common kitchen area. A house manager is on site, monitoring activities and providing support, as well as transportation to 12-step meetings. The cost for Hale Kūʻokoʻa is $250 per month.
Treatment and Staff
‘Ohana Makamae is a family resource center that offers substance abuse treatment for adults and adolescents, the sober living home and dual diagnosis support. The curriculum at Hale Kūʻokoʻa includes intensive outpatient (IOP) and aftercare. New clients receive full assessments and individualized treatment plans. While detox services are not provided, referrals are made for clients, if necessary.
IOP is six weeks and is open to anyone—not just Hale Kūʻokoʻa residents. The program includes three group sessions and individual therapy each week. Group topics include relapse prevention, family dynamics, the 12 steps and coping skills. The rehab employs evidence-based treatment methods like CBT, MET (motivational enhancement therapy, inspired by motivational interviewing) and PCT (person-centered therapy or traditional talk therapy) during IOP. The program also requires attendance at two to three 12-step meetings off the premises. Residents must have sponsors and work the 12 steps. With a strong emphasis on Native Hawaiian principles, Monday nights are reserved for cultural events and activities indigenous to Hawaii. These pastimes include fishing, hiking and art therapy.
IOP staff includes a certified substance abuse counselor, a Master’s-level adult treatment counselor, a Hale Kūʻokoʻa substance abuse counselor/program manager, a case manager, a Master’s-level social worker and an administrative assistant. Besides the house manager, Hale Kūʻokoʻa residents receive a lot of one-on-one time with the staff’s certified substance abuse counselor.
Extras
Aftercare for Hale Kūʻokoʻa residents includes a weekly group therapy session, individual treatment (per client’s needs) and continued attendance at off-site 12-step meetings.
Since 1999, the Keiki Makamae Program has offered support for pregnant women and moms with children ages three and under. Clients participate in a weekly support seminar from 10 am to 2 pm on Thursdays. Class topics include substance abuse awareness, parenting skills, domestic violence, infant health practices and self-empowerment. Every client receives a box of food at the end of each group to take home.
Clients who require social services or mental health support, or who have problems associated with domestic violence and/or substance abuse, can receive appropriate referrals to outside agencies.
The rehab provides substance abuse education, prevention and treatment for teens and pre-teens at risk for chemical dependency. Treatment takes place at the Hana School and includes group therapy, individual therapy and a family program.
In Summary
While the road to Hana may be arduous, the road to recovery at ‘Ohana Makamae, including its men-only Hale Kūʻokoʻa sober living, sounds like Maui’s best-kept secret. Not only are clients provided with a caring staff, and lots of kokua (help), Hana’s tropical attractions including ʻOheʻo Gulch (the Seven Sacred Pools) are manna from heaven for those who need to nourish their souls while seeking recovery from substance abuse.
‘Ohana Makamae Locations
‘Ohana Makamae
39 Keanini St
Hana, HI 96713
PO Box 914
Hana, HI 96713
‘Ohana Makamae (Hale Kūʻokoʻa) Cost
$250 (30 days). Reach ‘Ohana Makamae at (808) 248-8538 or by email at ohanamakamaeinc@gmail.com. Find ‘Ohana Makamae at Facebook and Google+
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