Dana Smith oversees weekend programming at The Exclusive, where she believes some of the most meaningful recovery happens in the moments between therapy sessions. Whether she’s building strength alongside residents in Saturday physical activity groups or exploring the Big Island during Sunday social outings, Dana provides a consistent, supportive presence as clients navigate the complexities of mental health and addiction recovery.
A Registered Behavior Technician with over 20 years of experience in the medical and caretaking fields, Dana brings a strong clinical foundation in mental health and behavioral intervention to her work. Throughout the week, she also works full-time as an RBT supporting differently abled elementary school students, and she carries that same patience and family-first energy into her weekends at The Exclusive. Just as meaningful as her professional credentials is the perspective she brings from nearly five years of personal sobriety — having walked the path of rebuilding herself, she draws from both her career and her own life to show residents that a full, vibrant life in recovery is not only possible, but within reach. Described as authentic, compassionate, and inspiring, Dana is moved most by transformation: like the volcanic landscape of the island, she loves witnessing the moment the fire of a struggle turns into the solid ground of a new life.
Originally born in Colorado and raised in Missouri, Dana migrated to the Big Island two years ago and has built a vibrant life rooted in sobriety, drawn to the island’s healing power and genuine Aloha spirit. She shares her home with her four children — two of whom live on the island with her — and a small “farm” of three dogs, a cat, and a pig, who keep her days full of laughter and grounding. In her leisure time, she loves soaking in the healing energy of the island, discovering its hidden gems, and spending quality time with her family. Her deepest wish for clients is that they leave The Exclusive not just sober, but empowered — with the grace to forgive their past selves, the self-efficacy to push through life’s hardest moments, and the deep-seated belief that they are worthy of the beautiful life they are creating.