Understanding Mood Disorders in the Jewish Community

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

Unique Challenges of Mood Disorders in the Jewish Community

When individuals within the Jewish community struggle with mood disorders, which are often shaped by distinct cultural and religious factors, it represents a specific set of challenges faced by this group. Stigma, attitudes toward mental health, cultural expectations, and religious considerations can all impact the experience and treatment of mood disorders in the Jewish community. Often, cultural and religious factors play a role in how mood disorders are perceived and managed. They can affect emotional well-being, relationships, and participation in community life.

Watch the videos below to gain insights from Jewish mental health professionals, therapists, and advocates. These resources offer extensive knowledge on supporting those facing mood disorders within the Jewish community, providing expert guidance and culturally sensitive approaches.

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,…

Full Article

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…

Full Article

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…

Full Article

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…

Full Article

Making Space-Exploration of Internal Family Systems Therapy Part 2

Making Space-Exploration of Internal Family Systems Therapy Part 2 by Fayga Zellermaier, LMSW, Licensed Master Social Worker: IN PERSON SESSIONS ONLY

How can we implement IFS concepts into our daily living? Here are some practical tips. For a further exploration of what IFS is, take a look at Part 1.

Full Article

Why Is There a "D" In "DBT?”

Why Is There a "D" In "DBT?” by Fayga Zellermaier, LMSW, Licensed Master Social Worker: IN PERSON SESSIONS ONLY

Dialectics, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Dialecticality. What does this word even mean and why should it suddenly enter our vocabulary?    Marsha Linehan, the founder of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) characterized…

Full Article

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,…

Full Article

Scared People Cheat; Brave People Confront

What, DrDeb? People who cheat are scared? Are you kidding? It takes guts to cheat! Cheating means going after what you want! Nice rationalizing, friend! Actually, you’ll hear the opposite…

Full Article

Professionals Who Specialize in Mood Disorders

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

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

Tzvi Friedman, LPC

Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor

  • In-office Nutley, New Jersey

Tzvi Friedman, LPC, collaborates with each client to find the path that aligns with their goals, creating space for healing, self-discovery, & authentic growth.


" I have a deep passion for supporting men in finding their inner strength, learning effective ways to cope with stress, and nurturing a solid sense of self-respect. I believe that true growth comes from a place of acceptance, …

  • 💙 Warm
  • 👂 Listener
  • 🧘 Calm

Gavriel Pliver, PMHNP-BC

Psychiatric Medication Provider, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP

  • In-office Lakewood, New Jersey

Gavriel Pliver, PMHNP-BC, embraces a holistic approach to wellness, recognizing that mental health is intricately connected to various facets of our lives.


" As a psychiatric mental health prescriber, my philosophy revolves around embracing a holistic approach to wellness. Recognizing that mental health is intricately connected to various facets of our lives, I advocate for addressing the entirety of our being …

  • 🎯 Direct
  • 👂 Listener
  • 💡 Solution-oriented
  • 🥇 Empowering

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 …

Penina Pultman

Psychiatric Medication Provider, DMSC, PA-C

  • In-office Brooklyn, New York

As a Yiddish-speaking Chassidic woman, I hold myself to a high bar when it comes to providing quality psychiatric care to individuals in the Jewish community.


" As a psychiatric medication provider, my approach is rooted in the belief that the combination of therapy and psychiatric services can be incredibly powerful for individuals seeking support. To me, it's similar to having a broken leg - …

  • 🎯 Direct
  • 💡 Solution-oriented
  • 🌎 Holistic

Rachy Friedlander, Somatic Coach

Coach, Emotions Master Coach/TEB Practitioner

  • In-office Lakewood, New Jersey

Rachy Friedlander is a somatic coach who employs psychodrama, IFS, Transforming Touch, meditation, Breathwork, yoga, and more in her profound work with clients.


" My coaching approach is deeply influenced by my exploration of emotional healing through the spiritual lenses of Kabbalah and Chassidus. Each session is approached intuitively, drawing from a diverse toolbox that includes modalities such as psychodrama, IFS (Internal …

  • 💙 Warm
  • 👂 Listener
  • 💡 Solution-oriented
  • 🧘 Calm

Yael Katz

Therapist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC

  • Remote only

Yael Katz is a Frum Therapist


" In my practice, I adopt a compassionate and understanding therapeutic approach. I firmly believe that the key to successful therapy lies in establishing a safe and accepting space where clients can freely explore their thoughts and emotions. By …

  • 🙌 Affirming
  • 💙 Warm
  • 👂 Listener
  • 🥇 Empowering

Esti Marcus, LCSW

Therapist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW

  • In-office Brooklyn, New York

Esti Marcus, LCSW uses an integrative approach, using the "here-and-now" to access the "there-and-then" & utilize attachment-based modalities like AEDP, IFS, & more.


" With a blend of different therapeutic perspectives, I provide a compassionate and understanding space to support your healing journey. Together, we will explore and process painful experiences, gain deeper insights into your thoughts and emotions, and forge connections …

  • 🎯 Direct
  • 💙 Warm
  • 🥇 Empowering
  • 🙏 Spiritual

Shabsi Sorscher, LSW

Therapist, Licensed Social Worker

  • In-office Lakewood, New Jersey

Shabsi Sorscher. LSW, helps clients navigate anxiety, relationships, life transitions, & personal growth using a strength-based & solution-focused approach.


" My approach is rooted in respect, warmth, and nonjudgmental support. I believe that every individual has strengths and resilience, and my role is to help clients recognize and build upon them. Through collaboration, we identify the coping strategies …

  • 🎯 Direct
  • 😃 Humorous
  • 💡 Solution-oriented

Solomon Weinreb, LMHC

Therapist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor: IN PERSON SESSIONS ONLY

  • In-office Far Rockaway, New York

Solomon Weinreb, LMHC, integrates CBT, IFS, mindfulness practices, & more, to help clients overcome challenges & foster a deeper understanding of themselves.


" Therapy is both an art and a science, blending evidence-based techniques with the intuitive understanding of each unique individual. While both aspects are essential for meaningful progress, my personal approach leans more toward the intuitive side, creating a …

  • 😃 Humorous
  • 💡 Solution-oriented
  • 💭 Open minded
  • 🤝 Collaborative

Understanding and Supporting Mood Disorders within the Jewish Community

Mood disorders are common mental health conditions across various communities, including unique considerations faced within the Jewish community. While the broader medical understanding of mood disorders exists, the intricacies of cultural norms, religious practices, and community dynamics within the Jewish community add layers of complexity. Navigating mood disorders within the Jewish community can affect individuals of all ages and backgrounds, highlighting the need for awareness and tailored support.

Strategies for Supporting Mood Disorders in the Jewish Community

Effective support for Jewish individuals experiencing mood disorders necessitates 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 interventions and treatment programs are developed to address the specific facets of mood disorders within the Jewish community. It's crucial to seek professional guidance to navigate these challenges effectively, ensuring improved mental health, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. 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 Mood Disorders within the Jewish community.

Professional Member Sign In

Not a professional member yet? Get listed!