What is Malama Pono?

Autism is part of many families story.

For some it is struggle, others it is joy, but for all the families we work with we believe autism doesn't need to stand in the way of health and happiness.



Malama Pono is dedicated to serving the families of Hawai’i who have been touched by autism. Whether you are looking for assessment, treatment, support, or just someone to ask questions of; we look forward to hearing from you.

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Why Malama Pono?

Malama Pono Autism Center was built with the passion to support families in Hawai’i who have been impacted by autism. We utilize research proven, evidence-based practices which ensure your child receives the very best care. Through integrated multidisciplinary care Malama Pono Autism Center is able to offer access to a full suite of services for you and your family.

  • Are all providers the same?

    The staff at Malama Pono Autism Center are not only behavioral health specialists, they are also parents, aunts, uncles, and brothers and sisters. We understand when you have a child with learning differences, especially a child who may not communicate effectively, it is important to be able to trust the people who will care for your family member. We take this responsibility seriously and so does the Behavioral Health Center of Excellence.

  • How do I know who the good ones are?

    The Behavioral Health Center of Excellence (BHCOE) is an international accrediting body created to evaluate and differentiate top-performing behavioral health providers. The BHCOE’s accreditation requirements and standards undergo regular review according to American National Standards Institute (ANSI) requirements for standard development. This provides an independent, third-party measurement system that filters top service providers through a rigorous evaluation that includes:


    • Review of clinical outcomes 
    • Review of safety protocols, practices and history
    • Detailed staff qualification review
    • Anonymous staff satisfaction survey
    • Anonymous parent and consumer satisfaction survey
    • Interviews with clinical leadership
    • On sight inspection and observations

    The Behavioral Health Center of Excellence has awarded Malama Pono Autism Center with its highest distinction as a top behavioral health provider in the country. This 3 year accreditation celebrates the very best behavioral health providers that set themselves apart in the areas of clinical quality, staff satisfaction, staff qualifications and consumer satisfaction. 

  • Who are the best in Hawaii?

    Malama Pono takes pride in knowing that an independent third party has thoroughly evaluated our program and found us to be one of the best in Hawaii. Here’s how we rank among others in the country:


    • 96% of parents agree or strongly agree that their child’s challenging behaviors have been reduced and new skills have been acquired since their child has been at MPAC. (The industry average is 83%)
    • 96% of parents agree or strongly agree that the quality of my family’s life has improved since my child began receiving treatment at MPAC. (The industry average is 84%)
    • 100% of parents agree or strongly agree that overall, they are satisfied with MPAC. (The industry average is 88%)

Visit the BHCOE website for more information and to search for providers accredited in Hawaii.

Therapy Approaches

ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)

Applied Behavior Analysis, often called “ABA therapy” is an intervention based on the science of behavior analysis. It is the most widely researched and supported treatment for children diagnosed with autism.


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KALO Therapeutic Preschool

The Kalo plant is a foundational part of Hawaiian culture. When the first voyagers arrived on the shores of the Hawaiian Islands nearly 1,500 years ago, Kalo was one of the few sacred plants they carried with them.


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Speech, Language and Communication

Speech and language pathologists (SLPs) are specialized clinicians who hold a master's degree and training in speech, language, and the many related aspects of communication.


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Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy is a common intervention for children on the autism spectrum, with a focus on helping children utilize their natural skills to better interact with the environment around them. 


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MPAC Hangs!

Making and keeping friendships is a skill that kids can learn. MPAC Hangs is a fun and interactive socialization program for older children and teens.


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Let's Talk

Malama Pono is dedicated to serving the families of Hawai’i who have been touched by autism.

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