Benjamin Kaneaiakala

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United States
Collierville, TN
Benjamin Kaneaiakala

Lokahi Behavioral HealthCare Consultants I have over 32 years of experience in the Behavioral Health Industry. Mahalo

I started 35 years ago as a driver, taking clients to doctor’s appointments. Since, I have worked in various roles and positions as a Counselor, Manager, Director, including becoming the CEO/Owner of a Substance Abuse Program. I am proud that I have worked and experienced just about every role in the behavioral health industry. What motivated me into this career was my own journey with addiction a

nd having over 35 years of recovery. In the past 3 years I have worked as Law Enforcement Officer with Tennessee Department of Corrections as a Probation Parole Officer and Manager. I have decided to leave TDOC and return to the behavioral health industry as the Program Director with Medicos Medical Center and Behavioral Health Department. We will be providing outpatient substance abuse and detox along with mental health outpatient services. So excited to be returning the industry I care so much about. I would like to continue learning and take all of my education, experience, drive, and passion into my career.

01/22/2025

Benjamin Kaneaiakala III is a seasoned leader in addiction recovery and behavioral health, with over 32 years of extensive experience in leadership roles across the healthcare sector. He was the Owner and CEO of Phoenix Rising Addiction Center and Narratives Behavioral Health, A Second Chance, and the Malama Foundation where he has demonstrated his passion for helping individuals achieve long-term sobriety and recovery through innovative, client-focused treatment programs.

Benjamin holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management (BSBM) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Phoenix. He also completed all coursework toward a Doctorate of Management (DM) in Organizational Leadership. Additionally, he held Licenses as an Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LAADC-CA) and a Master’s Level Registered Addiction Specialist (M-RAS), reflecting his deep commitment to advancing clinical excellence in the addiction treatment field.

Throughout his career, Benjamin has directed large-scale operations, spearheaded organizational growth, and managed strategic development initiatives in behavioral health institutions. Notably, during his tenure as Director of Strategic Development at Sovereign Health Group, he expanded the organization’s capacity from 30 to 500 beds and successfully launched new facilities across multiple states. His work has also included launching innovative treatment programs, securing Joint Commission accreditations, and improving operational efficiencies to enhance patient outcomes.

Benjamin’s expertise includes change management, strategic planning, program development, crisis management, and human resources. His leadership style is marked by a focus on building strong teams, fostering collaborative environments, and implementing evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and psychodynamic perspectives.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Benjamin has served as a CCAPP Board Member, furthering his advocacy for quality care and innovation in addiction treatment. He has also contributed his expertise as a Probation Parole Officer with the Tennessee Department of Corrections, adding a new dimension to his dedication to public service and community well-being. Benjamin is looking for new opportunities to help people and communities.