Jon Stojan
Image credit: The Ohana Retreat
Situated amidst the captivating allure of Hawaii’s lush landscapes, The Ohana is a world-class luxury drug, alcohol, and mental health recovery center with an adventure twist. Established in 2020 by Elliott Michael Smith, a seasoned film and television producer, The Ohana is a culmination of Smith’s personal journey toward recovery and his unwavering commitment to giving back in an extraordinary way.
For Smith, the decision to open The Ohana was deeply rooted in his own experiences with addiction and the profound impact that Hawaii’s serene environment had on his path to healing.
“Hawaii has some of the most beautiful terrain with adventures around every corner. The dichotomy of the mystical allure and adventurous opportunities reminded me of my own journey through recovery. I made peace with myself while fighting my demons,” Smith explains.
Smith’s research into the treatment options available in Hawaii turned up few choices. Certainly, no world-class treatment opportunities that include the lush Hawaiian landscapes into the client’s recovery plan. Smith knew he had hit on a winning idea.
Driven by his mission to provide comprehensive, compassionate, and evidence-based addiction treatment services, Smith opened The Ohana. Four years in he is finding that his hunch was correct. The unique blend of adventure therapy, holistic care, and evidence-based modalities empowers individuals and families on their journey to lasting recovery.
The success is attributed to Smith’s commitment to delivering on his original inspiration. Unlike traditional rehab centers, The Ohana’s holistic approach extends beyond mere sobriety, focusing on treating the whole person and addressing the underlying causes of addiction and mental illness.
Image credit: The Ohana Retreat
Part of the treatment plan is providing outdoor adventures. The benefits of exercise and outdoor activities in an inspiring locale spark great results for the clients.
Recent research supports The Ohana’s approach. A 2023 meta-analysis published in JAMA Psychiatry reviewed 43 studies and found that exercise significantly reduced substance use among individuals in treatment for addiction. Research suggests that exercise releases similar endorphins as drugs, potentially providing a healthier alternative to cravings and reducing relapse risk.
Spending time in nature is also showing similar positive impacts. Immersed in nature, individuals can practice mindfulness by focusing on the sights, sounds, and smells of the environment. This can aid in self-reflection and developing healthy coping mechanisms, critical for long-term sobriety.
According to a 2019 study in Environmental Science & Technology, spending time in nature led to decreased depression symptoms and increased positive emotions. The time outdoors is crucial for those battling the emotional rollercoaster of early recovery. A 2016 study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that spending time in nature helped regulate the reward system in the brain, potentially reducing cravings and relapse risk.
At the heart of The Ohana’s program is adventure therapy, which harnesses the healing power of nature and exercise to facilitate personal growth and self-discovery. Clients explore Hawaii’s breathtaking landscapes through a variety of exhilarating activities, including volcano adventures, snorkeling excursions, and ocean boat tours. These immersive experiences not only provide moments of respite and recreation but also serve as powerful catalysts for transformation.
“Seeing someone come in sick and in despair and watching how they blossom through their treatment plan is inspiring. They learn to trust themselves. And just as importantly, they learn to look outside of themselves and appreciate the beauty around them. A powerful tool in recovery is finding a life that you want to live for,” Smith says.
Don’t confuse The Ohana’s adventure focus with some version of a Hawaiian Outward Bound. The aesthetic at The Ohana is firmly resort chic, with no signs of roughing it.
Image credit: The Ohana Retreat
In fact, The Ohana supplements their adventurous spirit with an unwavering commitment to personalized care. With an intimate roster of just eight clients at a time, The Ohana ensures that each client receives individualized treatment tailored to their unique needs. Led by a team of dedicated professionals, including medical doctors, therapists, nutritionists, and holistic practitioners, The Ohana offers a comprehensive range of services, from medical detox to residential inpatient care to outpatient support.
Clients also benefit from full-service personalized medical care and supervision including psychiatry, medication management, and EMDR therapy. As a part of their commitment to treating the whole person– The Ohana also provides world-class holistic care, including massage, yoga, meditation, and more. Of course, nutritious meals prepared by a gourmet chef ensure that clients are ready for healing, adventures, and therapy.
Smith admits that making The Ohana was not without difficulties. Despite facing numerous challenges, including licensing hurdles and staffing shortages, The Ohana has persevered, emerging as a top-rated program with Joint Commission Accreditation, State Licensing, and State Accreditation.
“It makes perfect sense that we offer adventure therapy. This entire process has been an adventure. Providing the first world-class, luxury drug and alcohol rehabilitation in Hawaii is a dream come true and an adventure,” laughs Smith.
The next adventure for Smith and his team is to expand its services, adding four additional beds to its Hawaii location and branching out to a second location in California by the end of Q2 2024.
For more information on The Ohana, visit www.TheOhanaHawaii.com