In July, organizations across the US celebrate BIPOC Mental Health Month (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) -- a month highlighting the unique mental health challenges and needs of historically disenfranchised or oppressed racial and ethnic groups.
Kealoha Psychology, Inc. utilizes culturally sensitive practices with all of the ‘ohana we serve. Being a practitioner of Native Hawaiian ancestry who was born and raised in Hawai’i has had a tremendous impact on Dr. Kealoha’s personal and professional interests. Professionally, she has an ardent interest in culturally sensitive and client-centered care. Through her research, Dr. Kealoha has sought to improve the relevance of mental health care and education for the Native Hawaiian community, including how incorporating cultural practices in education and treatment settings can be beneficial to native populations.
Dr. Kealoha also places immense importance on interpersonal relationships and giving back to the community. In her free time, Dr. Kealoha has volunteered at intellectual and developmental disabilities summits and surf camps for youth with developmental disabilities. She has also mentored at-risk students of Native Hawaiian ancestry to support their academic journey and completion of high school. While living in southern California, Dr. Kealoha continues to teach individuals of all ages to express themselves through the art of hula and Polynesian dance, which Dr. Kealoha has toured the world performing, both professionally and competitively.