‘Ai Pono’s approach emphasizes individualized care using a combination of evidence-based modalities and holistic and alternative approaches. Our environment is also unique – featuring a home-like setting surrounded by water and nature. We specialize in treating co-occurring trauma and often offer alternative pathways for individuals who have attended other residential treatment programs and experienced a relapse or have not been able to achieve full recovery.

Yes, we treat co-occurring mental health conditions alongside eating disorders. Many individuals with eating disorders also experience anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, or substance use concerns. Residential treatment includes psychiatric care and integrated therapy to address both the eating disorder and co-occurring diagnoses simultaneously.

‘Ai Pono clinicians are trauma-informed and trained to recognize how past experiences may influence eating behaviors. We implement therapeutic modalities such as somatic therapy, EMDR, brainspotting, and other evidence-based trauma treatments when appropriate.

Yes, all meals and snacks are structured and supported by staff. Clients meet once weekly with our registered dietitian to complete menu planning and review goals and challenges. Outside of this session, we offer nutrition groups as well as the daily support of a Nutrition Assistant to address immediate needs and offer consistent support.

Staff are trained to provide compassionate support and gentle coaching during meals. The goal is to reframe food and eating as a nourishing and supportive activity and to develop sustainable eating patterns over time. We also offer supplementation for clients who may be struggling with a particular food or meal. We do not support Enteral nutrition (EN).

Due to ‘Ai Pono’s small size and ability to work closely with our clients, we try our best to meet clients where they are while still ensuring that they are receiving appropriate nutrition. We work to accommodate medical dietary needs, allergies, and culturally relevant foods whenever possible, and also offer vegetarian and vegan menu options.

Clients live in a comfortable, home-like setting rather than a sterile or “hospital-like” environment. This helps create a sense of safety and normalcy while still maintaining structure and clinical support. Most rooms are shared and while some private-rooms may be available, room assignment is based on clinical need and consideration. We do not take reservations for single rooms specifically. 

Scheduled communication with loved ones is usually encouraged and supported. During the initial 7 days of treatment, access to personal electronics is limited to urgent and therapist-supported calls only. After this initial grounding period, clients are allowed twice daily access to personal electronics Saturday-Thursday and an additional hour of access (3x daily) on Fridays.

Treatment includes specialized groups and individual therapy focused on body image, self-worth, and identity. Clients learn to challenge harmful beliefs and develop a more neutral or compassionate relationship with their bodies. Body image is often one of the “stickiest” challenges clients face, so this work is necessarily continued in lower levels of care as well.

‘Ai Pono clients will work with their therapist to create a step-down plan that may include PHP, IOP, outpatient therapy. We can offer referrals to trusted providers to maintain continuity of care, but ultimately encourage the client to take on a very active role in their own discharge planning so we can be sure we are creating a plan that is realistic and sustainable.