ABOUT BIG ISLAND SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNCIL
Since 1964, Big Island Substance Abuse Council (BISAC) has been providing substance abuse programs rooted in Hawaiian culture. Located in Kea’au on the Big Island, BISAC operates outpatient facilities in Hilo and Kailua Kona. Its services include outpatient care, an intensive outpatient program (IOP), and sober-living facilities for adults struggling with substance abuse. The organization also offers school- and community-based treatment for adolescents and outpatient care for adults and adolescents dealing with mental health disorders.
TREATMENT & ASSESSMENT
Treatment programs at BISAC typically involve individual and group counseling, family/couples counseling, relapse prevention work, and recovery skills training. Clients have the opportunity to engage in outdoor activities and learn about traditional Hawaiian values and practices.
BISAC’s Therapeutic Living Program provides 24-hour supervision and support for men. Residents are expected to seek employment and regularly attend self-help meetings. The organization also offers a specialized residential program for pregnant and parenting women and their children. Both facilities provide vocational programs, culinary programs, parenting classes called STEPS, and family education sessions.
For adults, BISAC offers outpatient substance abuse programming, including an intensive outpatient program (IOP), general outpatient care, and a continuing care program. The IOP involves 9 to 15 hours of treatment per week, including individual counseling sessions. General outpatient care includes up to eight hours of treatment per week, including a monthly individual counseling session.
Adolescents can access BISAC’s intensive outpatient program and school-based treatment. The organization collaborates with various schools to provide prevention education and treatment.
STAFF CREDENTIALS
The treatment staff at BISAC includes a clinical psychologist, a psychiatrist, licensed therapists, and certified substance abuse counselors. A former client gave the center positive feedback regarding the staff’s level of training and experience.
ACCOMMODATIONS & AMENITIES
There is no information available regarding the facility’s living arrangements and amenities. However, the same former client expressed satisfaction with the accommodations, cleanliness, meals, and exercise/leisure opportunities at the center.
WHAT ALUMNI SAY
The same former client gave the center five out of five stars for its treatment effectiveness and positive feedback on most evaluated treatment metrics, including family participation and treatment for co-occurring disorders. The reviewer expressed dissatisfaction with the center’s holistic options but praised the friendly surroundings and positive attitudes. The only drawback mentioned was the facility’s location.
On Facebook, BISAC has received exclusively perfect five-star ratings from six individuals. Alumni R.Z. mentioned, “Good job,” and alum B.J. acknowledged the organization’s valuable services for the community.
WHAT STAFF SAY
According to two reviews on Indeed, one staff member gave BISAC a three out of five-star rating, while another staff member awarded five out of five stars. The receptionist described the job as stressful but rewarding, while another staff member highlighted the positive impact of counseling and support to help clients achieve sobriety.
FINANCING
Information regarding the facility’s costs is not provided on its website. BISAC accepts donations to help subsidize the cost of treatment. It also accepts some private insurance and alternative funding options. The same former client gave the center three out of five stars for its affordability.