Dr. Haunani ‘Iao
Psychologist
Dr. Haunani ‘Iao is the founder and president of ‘Iao Mind & Body Health, a Native Hawaiian–owned psychology practice grounded in mālama (care), pilina (connection), kuleana (responsibility), and pono (integrity). A kānaka maoli born and raised in Hawai‘i, she integrates modern neuroscience with ancestral wisdom to support sustainable individual and systems-level well-being.
She is working with Mindful Living Group to create group programs that support the embodied and sustained resilience and healing of our Maui community.
With over 14 years of clinical experience and a decade of healthcare leadership, Dr. ‘Iao has held leadership roles including Integrated Health Director, CPC+ Medical Director, and Behavioral Health Director within primary care and Federally Qualified Health Centers. She has led the development of large-scale programs, integrated behavioral health systems, and multidisciplinary training teams, shaping trauma-informed andculturally grounded models of care across Maui.
Her clinical specialization centers on trauma healing and resilience throughneuroscience-informed, somatic, and experiential therapies. She emphasizes nervous system regulation as a foundational wellness skill and integrates modalities such as Somatic Experiencing–informed approaches, mindfulness, CBT, and Internal Family Systems.
Dr. ‘Iao developed Discover Your Inner Resilience, a proprietary 7-module, data-driven group program that blends psychoeducation, embodiment practices, and community connection. The program integrates trauma science, polyvagal theory, breathwork, and values-based reflection, and is continuously refined through participant outcomes and feedback.
A certified Trauma-Sensitive Yoga teacher, she offers evidence-based somatic groups to support complex trauma recovery. She currently serves as Maui Representative on the Hawai‘i Psychological Association Board and has contributed to Peloton’s The Output, Well+Good, and Oprah Daily as a behavioral medicine sleep expert.
Dr. ‘Iao’s mindfulness practices include daily yoga with meditation and somatic awareness. Living