About Ohana
Ohana is an innovative program, founded by leading experts in youth mental health. Today, our team continues the mission we started with. We’re transforming care for children facing mental health challenges.
Ohana began with a breakthrough idea: mental health conditions are treatable and often preventable. Just like physical fitness, mental fitness grows stronger with consistent care and practice.
Ohana's transformative work
In Hawaiian, “Ohana” means family. But this definition goes beyond relatives. We see family as the entire circle of support around each person — friends, caregivers, healthcare providers, and the wider community.
That belief shapes everything we do. We care for the whole family because lasting change starts with strong, connected support. No one should have to face the journey alone.
Supporting youth mental health in Monterey County
History of Ohana
Ohana began with a historic $105.8 million gift to Montage Health Foundation — the largest donation in Monterey County history. It came from philanthropist Bertie Bialek Elliott. Her generosity helped build our campus, grow a team of youth mental health experts, and secure program funding. Together, these efforts are filling critical gaps in youth mental health care in our region and beyond.
Stronger Together
“Young people who are facing emotional and mental challenges, they can’t do it alone. Families can’t do it alone. Even the wonderful staff can’t do it alone. It takes a community — and that’s why I suggested ‘Ohana.’ And I’m so happy and proud to be part of this bigger effort.”
— Bertie Bialek Elliott, philanthropist
Meet the team
Outstanding care starts with the people who deliver it. At Ohana, we lead with clinical expertise and compassion. Our team includes psychiatrists, therapists, and family care managers who all work together to support children’s mental health.
Just as important, you’re part of our family, too. Together, we’ll create a space where your child feels safe, confident, and empowered to grow.
For the media
Interested in learning more about us? Read our latest press releases, visit the Montage Health website, or view our photos below.
Please contact our Marketing and Communications department if you have a media request.
Photos for the media
People
Groundbreaking
- Bertie Bialek Elliott, founding donor, speaks at Ohana groundbreaking [.jpg]
- Dr. Susan Swick, Ohana executive director at Ohana groundbreaking [.jpg]
- Richard Dallam, NBBJ (architecture firm) managing partner, at Ohana groundbreaking [.jpg]
- Dr. Steven Packer, Montage Health, president/CEO speaks at Ohana groundbreaking [.jpg]
- Ohana supporters John and Laura Gamble, Dr. Steven Packer, Montage Health president/CEO, Kathleen Bang, chair, Montage Health Board of Trustees, Bertie Bialek Elliott, founding donor, and her son-in-law, Zakai Akcan, Richard Dallam, architect, and Dr. Susan Swick, Ohana executive director. [.jpg]
Construction
Building renderings
Building photos
