In this episode of Roots Reclaimed, I had the privilege to speak with Anuhea St. Laurent, a licensed marriage and family therapist and founder of Kanaka to Kanaka. We delved into the vital intersection of cultural identity and mental health, specifically how Native Hawaiian frameworks can reshape therapeutic practices. Anuhea passionately shared her insights on the historical context of our struggles, emphasizing that the mental health challenges we face are not merely personal failures but symptoms of the systemic impacts of colonization. We explored how the legacy of capitalism and supremacy has infiltrated our lives, influencing not just our societal structures but also our personal well-being and trauma.

Anuhea explained the importance of culturally aligned therapy, which involves finding therapists who recognize and respect one’s cultural values and worldviews. We discussed the growing need for more Native Hawaiian therapists and the significance of creating a therapeutic environment where clients can feel understood and safe. Anuhea reflected on her own experiences navigating the clash between Western psychological approaches and traditional Hawaiian healing practices, and how this has informed her work. She highlighted the significance of reconnecting to one’s identity through culture, which provides a pathway to empowerment and healing.

The conversation revealed the challenges of stigma surrounding mental health in our communities. Anuhea shared her perspectives on how to break down barriers to seeking help and the necessity of normalizing mental health discussions. Together, we acknowledged the tension that arises when individuals embark on their healing journeys but find their families and loved ones are not yet on the same path. This segment underscores the complexities of generational healing that many face as they work toward personal growth.

Anuhea also shared her aspirations for fostering a network of Kanaka therapists to better meet the needs of our community. This potential group could serve as a supportive space where therapists can collaborate and share insights, ultimately enhancing the continuum of therapeutic care accessible to our people. We discussed the importance of honoring traditional learning while also adapting to the realities of modern therapy, creating a space where cultural practices can flourish alongside evidence-based approaches.

Throughout our dialogue, Anuhea continuously emphasized the essence of community and connection in our healing processes. She illustrated how healing should not be viewed as a solitary endeavor but rather as one that flourishes through support and collective efforts. This sense of shared responsibility echoes the principles of our ancestors, reminding us that we are not only healing for ourselves but also for future generations.

Finally, we wrapped up our meaningful exchange by reflecting on the transformative potential of therapy rooted in cultural identity. Anuhea’s work is deeply inspiring, illuminating the pathway forward for others seeking to understand themselves through their heritage and community ties. Our conversation serves as a reminder that reconnecting with culture and identity is integral to both individual and communal healing, thus paving the way for a brighter, more empowered future for our families and communities.