For so long, Native Hawaiian, Pasifika, and Local-Hawai’i communities have felt ashamed and judged, especially when it comes to our mental health. The stigma is real. The side-eye, the “suck it up,” “soldier on,” and “don’t be weak” messages are real too.

Have you ever felt the weight of shame and judgment—especially when it comes to your mental health?
Have you ever been told that only "weak" people need therapy?
Have you ever carried the weight of something so emotionally heavy, yet struggled to ask for help?

If so, you are not alone!

When someone who understands your culture, someone who looks like you, talks like you, and truly gets you on a deeper level — even in something as simple, but deeply meaningful, as saying your name correctly — that’s when you feel safe. It’s about honoring where you come from and knowing where you’re going. It’s about living out your highest, truest, and most authentic version of yourself.

This is why Kāko’o Hawai’i Mental Health Collective exists. We exist for our lāhui. We exist for Pasifika. We exist for our local communities, in Hawai’i and in the diaspora. We exist for you.

We Exist for You.

Meet the Provider Hui.

Whether you’re seeking support with stress, anxiety, relationships, grief, personal growth or anything else — whether a small stressor or a big stressor, it all holds weight and we're here to help.

Click on a provider’s picture to learn more or use the search bar to filter through profiles.

FAQs

If it’s important to you, look for a therapist who understands your cultural background. For many people in Native Hawaiian, Pasifika, and other local communities, finding someone who shares or respects your cultural experiences can make a huge difference in feeling understood and safe.
Consider what areas you want to work on—whether it's anxiety, trauma, relationships, or personal growth—and make sure the therapist specializes in those areas. Some therapists use different approaches like talk therapy, mindfulness, or trauma-focused therapy, so finding one who truly resonates with you is key.
The cost of therapy can vary based on several factors, including whether you're paying out-of-pocket or using insurance. Many therapists accept insurance, so check with your provider to see if your plan covers mental health services. Some plans may cover a portion of the cost, while others may cover it entirely. Be sure to ask the therapist or their office about in-network and out-of-network coverage.
The frequency of therapy sessions can depend on your individual needs, goals, and the type of therapy you're receiving. Here are some general guidelines:
1. Initial Sessions: When starting therapy, you may go once a week to establish a strong foundation and start working through your concerns. This frequency helps build trust and momentum in the therapeutic process.
2. Ongoing Therapy: After the initial period, many people continue with weekly or bi-weekly sessions, especially if they are working through more intense issues or experiencing significant challenges.
3. Maintenance: Once you've made progress and feel more stable, you may decide to reduce the frequency to once a month or as needed. Some people continue therapy on a less frequent basis for ongoing support or to maintain their mental health.
4. Specific Needs: If you're dealing with a specific issue (e.g., trauma, anxiety, depression), you might need more frequent sessions at the start, then gradually reduce as you make progress. Others with less intensive needs might only need occasional sessions.
Ultimately, how often you go to therapy depends on your unique situation and your therapist’s recommendation. It's important to communicate with your therapist to find the frequency that works best for you and your goals.
No, therapy is not just for people with serious mental health issues. While therapy is definitely helpful for those facing conditions like anxiety, depression, or trauma, it's also beneficial for anyone feeling the strain of carrying a stressor, no matter how big or small — it all holds weight. Therapy can support you in many areas including:
1. Personal Growth: Therapy can help you better understand yourself, your goals, and your values, and help you make positive changes in your life.
2. Stress and Life Transitions: Whether you're dealing with work stress, relationship issues, or a major life change, therapy can help you navigate challenges and cope more effectively.
3. Communication Skills: Therapy can improve your ability to communicate with others. Sometimes it also means setting boundaries and protecting your peace.
4. Preventative Care: Just as we go for regular check-ups with a doctor, therapy can be a way to stay mentally healthy and prevent issues from becoming bigger problems.
5. Building Coping Strategies: Therapy helps you develop tools and coping strategies to handle life’s ups and downs, even if you’re not dealing with a major mental health crisis.
Therapy is for anyone who wants to better understand themselves, improve their relationships, and live a more balanced and fulfilling life. It's not just for "serious" mental health concerns—it's an important resource for anyone looking for support and growth.
Finding someone you resonate with is a key part of the therapeutic process. If you don't feel comfortable or understood, it can be a deal breaker. Here’s what you can do:
1. Give It Time: Sometimes, it takes a few sessions to build rapport and trust with your therapist. If you don’t feel an immediate connection, it might be worth giving it a little more time to see if things improve.
2. Be Honest: If you're not feeling the connection, it’s important to talk about it with your therapist. A good therapist will be open to feedback and may be able to adjust their approach or help you understand why the dynamic might not be working.
3. Consider Switching: If, after a few sessions and open communication, you still feel like it's not a good fit, it’s okay to switch therapists. There’s no harm in finding someone who better aligns with your needs and style.
Yes, therapy can be conducted both online and in-person. It’s important to inquire with your therapist about the available formats they offer.
1. In-person Therapy: In-person therapy can feel a lot more personal for some people. There's something about being in the same room that makes it easier to build trust and really connect.
2. Online Therapy: Many therapists now offer virtual sessions. Online therapy can be convenient, especially if you have a busy schedule, live in a remote area, or simply prefer to do therapy from the comfort of your home. It also provides flexibility in scheduling and can make it easier to access mental health support.
Both options can be effective, and the choice depends on your comfort level, lifestyle, and what you're hoping to get out of therapy. Some people even choose a combination of both, depending on their needs and circumstances. Whatever option you choose, it’s important to ensure you feel comfortable and supported in the environment you’re in.
In general, what you share in therapy is confidential. Therapists are bound by strict ethical guidelines and legal requirements to protect your privacy. This means they cannot share what you say in therapy without your permission, except in a few specific situations:
1. Risk of Harm: If you express intent to harm yourself or others, your therapist may be required to break confidentiality to ensure safety and provide necessary interventions.
2. Abuse: If there is suspected abuse or neglect (especially involving children, elderly individuals, or vulnerable adults), therapists are legally required to report it to the appropriate authorities.
3. Court Orders: If a court orders your therapist to release your records or testify, they may be required to do so.
These exceptions are in place to protect your well-being and the safety of others. Outside of these situations, you can feel confident that what you share in therapy will remain between you and your therapist. If you ever have concerns about confidentiality, it's always okay to discuss them directly with your therapist.