Understanding Depression in the Jewish Community

Hello and welcome to our dedicated space for discussing and addressing depression within the Jewish community. Our site features a diverse range of professionals, therapists, and content focused on combating and understanding depression in the Jewish community.

Unique Challenges of Depression in the Jewish Community

When individuals within the Jewish community experience depression, which is often shaped by distinct cultural and religious factors, it represents a specific category of challenges faced by this group. Stigma, spiritual struggles, family dynamics, and community expectations are all examples of factors that can influence the experience of depression in the Jewish community. Often, cultural and religious factors play a role in how depression is perceived and addressed. It can impact individuals' emotional well-being, social functioning, and sense of connection to their Jewish identity.

Watch the videos below to gain insights from Jewish mental health professionals, therapists, and advocates. These resources offer extensive knowledge on addressing depression within the Jewish community, providing expert guidance and culturally sensitive techniques.

The Pesach Blues...

The Pesach Blues... by Fayga Zellermaier, LMSW, Licensed Master Social Worker: IN PERSON SESSIONS ONLY

While for some, Pesach and religious holidays are the highlight of the year, for others, these times can be quite challenging.  Whatever your experience, whether anticipating eagerly or dreading anxiously,…

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The Ocean of Mood Episodes

The Ocean of Mood Episodes by Ari Daniels, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-BC

Episodic mood illness represents a spectrum of conditions that are highly treatable yet often go misdiagnosed—it can take patients up to 9 years to get properly diagnosed, in fact. Much…

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Shifting Gears

Shifting Gears by Ari Daniels, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-BC

The Mental Health Crisis Crisis We are in the midst of a mental health crisis—crisis. It’s hard to know where to begin when I find myself in a field with…

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Understanding People-Pleasing as a Trauma Wound

People-pleasing is a behavior that many individuals exhibit, often to the detriment of their own well-being. At its core, people-pleasing involves prioritizing others’ needs and feelings over one’s own, often…

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The Influence of Ancestry on Partner Selection: Healing Unhealthy Patterns

When we think about our choice of partners, it’s easy to focus solely on personal preferences and individual experiences. However, a deeper layer of our partner selection may be rooted…

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Healing Transgenerational Trauma Through Somatic Experiencing

Transgenerational trauma, the emotional and psychological scars passed down from one generation to another, can profoundly affect individuals and families. This phenomenon often manifests in anxiety, depression, and unhealthy relationship…

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Struggling with Depression? Discover the Hidden Causes Behind Your Emotional Pain.

Many people ask what causes depression or deep sadness. Depression is a symptom experienced by many, stemming from a variety of underlying issues. Similar to how a fever signals a…

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What's a life coach doing on a therapy website?

BS"D You might wonder what a life coach is doing on a therapy website. After all, if you've read the magazines you have read that life coaches are uncertified, unsupervised,…

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Professionals Who Specialize in Depression

Danielle Taylor, LMHC

Therapist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC

  • Remote only

Danielle Taylor, LMHC, incorporates CBT, ACT, and psychodynamic therapy. For couples, she specializes in the Gottman Method & more to fortify relationship dynamics.


" I prioritize a holistic perspective on wellness, recognizing that true well-being encompasses a delicate balance of physical, emotional, spiritual, and relational dimensions. I understand that each individual's journey toward wellness is unique, and I tailor my approach to …

  • 💙 Warm
  • 💡 Solution-oriented
  • 🥇 Empowering
  • 🤝 Collaborative

Anna Sherman, MFT

Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, RP, MA

  • In-office Toronto, Canada

Anna Sherman, MFT helps clients to overcome trauma, work through fears and emotional blocks in their lives, and empower them to help them help themselves.


" I guide clients on their journey of healing and overcoming trauma, while also helping them navigate fears and emotional blocks within their lives and relationships. My goal is to empower clients to become their own advocates, providing them …

  • 🎯 Direct
  • 💙 Warm
  • 😃 Humorous
  • 👂 Listener

Bassy (Batya) Schwartz, LMFT

Therapist, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT

  • In-office Cedarhurst, New York

Batya Schwartz, LMFT, creates an atmosphere that balances professionalism with a personal touch, creating a comfortable and genuine connection between us.


" My therapeutic approach is rooted in several key principles: 1. Genuine Connection: We have a unique opportunity here, in the therapeutic space, to share and connect authentically, which is often scary or impossible in the "real world". You …

  • 💙 Warm
  • 😃 Humorous
  • 🥇 Empowering
  • 🤝 Collaborative

Mordy Lyss, LCMFT, CHT

Therapist, Licensed Clinical Marriage & Family Therapist

  • Remote only

Yisroel (Mordy) Lyss, LMFT adopts a flexible & integrative approach drawing from client-centered, psychodynamic, relational, CBT, EMDR, and mindfulness modalities.


" In alignment with Irvin Yalom's insight, I believe that therapy should prioritize the therapeutic relationship above theoretical frameworks. Understanding that each individual's journey is inherently unique, I adopt a flexible and integrative approach to therapy. Drawing from client-centered, …

  • 🎯 Direct
  • 💙 Warm
  • 😃 Humorous
  • 👂 Listener

Miriam Mackay, LCSW

Therapist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

  • In-office Howell, New Jersey

Miriam Mackay, LCSW, uses IFS, somatic therapy & TF-CBT to treat trauma, anxiety & more, to support healing through a collaborative approach.


" My approach is grounded in being deeply client-centered. I believe that each person brings a unique inner wisdom to the healing process, and I aim to create a space where clients feel safe, seen, and empowered to move …

  • 😃 Humorous
  • 🥇 Empowering
  • 💭 Open minded
  • 🤝 Collaborative

Moses Appel, PhD

Therapist, Doctor of Psychology, Ph.D.

  • In-office Brooklyn, New York

Moses Appel, PhD, draws from CBT, ACT, and DBT to support individuals in their journey toward improved mental health and overall well-being.


" At ADO Psychology Center, our approach is deeply rooted in compassion and evidence-based methods that foster personal growth and recovery. We draw from a evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior …

  • 🎯 Direct
  • 💙 Warm
  • 🤝 Collaborative

Beverly DAmico

RN, MSN, CGRS, FAF

  • Remote only

Coaching is a proactive process that helps individuals tap into their inner resources, challenge limiting beliefs, and cultivate a fulfilling & purposeful life.


" In my practice, I prioritize the importance of mutual agreement between the client and the coach regarding the care plan. To ensure a good fit, I offer an initial free 15-minute assessment where both parties can evaluate if …

  • 💙 Warm
  • 😃 Humorous
  • 💪 Challenging
  • 👂 Listener

Levi Rapoport

Therapist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC

  • In-office Brooklyn, New York

Using Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, I teach people to second-guess the unhelpful rules they have written in their personal constitution.


" I believe deeply in human potential and one’s ability to see oneself beyond their behaviors and thoughts. Using Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, I teach people to second guess the unhelpful rules they have written in their personal constitution. …

  • 🥇 Empowering
  • 💙 Warm
  • 😃 Humorous
  • 💪 Challenging

Rivky Weiss

Therapist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW

  • In-office Brooklyn, New York

Rivky Weiss is a Frum Therapist in Brooklyn


" My therapy style is warm and compassionate. I focus on listening to your story and helping you hear your story as well so that you can develop self-compassion as well. I am trained in various trauma modalities including …

  • 💙 Warm
  • 🥇 Empowering
  • 🎯 Direct
  • 🤝 Collaborative

Shauli Wagschal, MHC-LP CASAC-T

Therapist, Mental Health Counselor, Limited Permit: IN PERSON SESSIONS ONLY

  • In-office Brooklyn, New York

Shauli Wagschal is a therapist who integrates an existential perspective, in addition to CBT, DBT, & ACT to empower his clients to find meaning & purpose in life.


" My approach begins with a humanistic, person-centered foundation. I deeply believe that people are inherently good and possess the ability to grow, heal, and create meaningful change when supported in the right environment. By fostering empathy, unconditional positive …

  • 👂 Listener
  • 💡 Solution-oriented
  • 🌎 Holistic
  • 🐣 Out of the box

Esther (Ellen) Gendelman

Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC

  • Remote only

I employ a positive, nurturing approach focused on identifying and building strengths that work more successfully than focusing only on the areas of weakness.


" I believe that close connections are the essence of a fulfilling life. Without meaningful relationships, life can feel dark and lonely. In my practice, I've found that a positive, nurturing approach centered on identifying and building strengths, drawing …

Aryeh Kugel, MHC-LP

Therapist, Mental Health Counselor Limited Permit: IN PERSON SESSIONS ONLY

  • In-office Brooklyn, New York

Aryeh Kugel, LMHC, helps teens, young adults, & families navigate family dynamics, ADHD, anxiety, life changes, & more, through compassionate & holistic care.


" I approach therapy with an easy-going, nonjudgmental presence. I know that coming to therapy takes real courage, and it can feel uncomfortable at first, so I strive to make the process as pleasant and approachable as possible. My …

  • 💙 Warm
  • 😃 Humorous
  • 👂 Listener
  • 💡 Solution-oriented

Understanding and Addressing Depression within the Jewish Community

Depression is a pressing concern across various communities, with the Jewish community facing its own specific obstacles. While the broader understanding of depression exists, the intricacies of cultural norms, religious practices, and community dynamics within the Jewish community add layers of complexity. Depression within the Jewish community can affect individuals regardless of age, gender, or background, highlighting the need for awareness and targeted interventions.

Strategies for Addressing Depression in the Jewish Community

Effective support and treatment for Jewish individuals experiencing depression necessitate approaches that are culturally and religiously attuned. This encompasses therapy that respects religious beliefs and cultural practices, community support networks that provide a sense of belonging and understanding, and accessible mental health resources. Tailored therapies and interventions are developed to address the specific facets of depression within the Jewish community. It's crucial to seek professional guidance to navigate these challenges effectively, ensuring a path towards healing and improved mental well-being. It's important to note that our professionals are experts in their fields, bringing both specialized knowledge and a deep understanding of cultural nuances to their work

Our directory features professionals, including Therapists, Psychiatrists & Coaches, who offer culturally sensitive support for those navigating Depression within the Jewish community.

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