Holistic Support for Jewish Families through the Perinatal Journey

Welcome to our dedicated space at /jewish-perinatal-mental-health/ for exploring and supporting the Jewish community in navigating the profound and complex mental health experiences during the perinatal period. Our site features a diverse range of professionals, therapists, and content that look into the nuanced realities faced by Jewish families from pregnancy through the postpartum phase, offering insights and guidance from experts within the community.

The Unique Considerations of Perinatal Mental Health in the Jewish Community

The perinatal period, which encompasses pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum phase, can be a time of immense joy and transformation, but it can also be accompanied by profound mental health challenges. Within the Jewish community, these experiences are often shaped by a unique set of cultural, spiritual, and social factors that require a tailored approach to support and intervention.

Jewish families may face additional stressors during the perinatal period, such as:

  • Navigating the balance between religious traditions and modern medical practices
  • Navigating complex family dynamics and communal expectations within the tight-knit Jewish community
  • Stigma and hesitancy to seek mental health support due to cultural beliefs
  • Limited access to culturally competent healthcare providers and perinatal resources

These complexities, combined with the universal challenges of the perinatal experience, can contribute to an increased risk of mental health issues, including postpartum depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. Addressing these concerns within the Jewish community is essential for promoting the overall well-being of Jewish families and their newborns.

Watch the videos below to gain insights from Jewish mental health professionals, community leaders, and individuals who have personal experiences to share. These resources provide a compassionate and culturally sensitive exploration of the unique mental health journey of Jewish families during the perinatal period.

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

1-1 Breakthrough Session

1-1 Breakthrough Session by Raina Balsam, Coach

You will be cleansed, healed, and blown away from your new insight after our session. Access a deeper level of yourself to reach incredulous joy and a satisfyingly soothing, rich,…

Full Article

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum Depression

Full Article

Professionals Who Specialize in Prenatal, perinatal, & postpartum mental health

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
  • πŸ’™ Warm
  • πŸ˜ƒ Humorous
  • πŸ‘‚ 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 …

  • πŸ’™ Warm
  • πŸ˜ƒ Humorous
  • πŸ₯‡ Empowering
  • 🀝 Collaborative

Bina Stefansky, LMSW

Therapist, Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW

  • In-office Jerusalem, Israel

Bini Stefansky, LMSW draws from solution-focused therapy, AEDP, trauma-informed approaches, & more to partner with her clients & ensure they reach their goals.


" Since the beginning of my schooling and throughout my professional journey, my focus has consistently been within the Jewish world. My career began with a meaningful engagement with the elderly, addressing issues such as grief, loneliness, and depression …

  • 🎯 Direct
  • πŸ’™ Warm
  • πŸ₯‡ Empowering
  • 🀝 Collaborative

Tzipi Davatgar, LSW

Therapist, Licensed Social Worker

  • In-office Lakewood, New Jersey

Tzipi Davatgar, LMSW's approach is rooted in attachments theory, as she recognizes how relationships shape who we are & influence the way we navigate life today.


" My approach to therapy is rooted in an attachment-based lens. I recognize how early relationships shape who we are and influence the way we navigate life today. Understanding these foundational experiences provides a framework for insight and healing, …

  • 🎯 Direct
  • πŸ’™ Warm
  • πŸ₯‡ Empowering
  • πŸ’­ Open minded

Rachel Goldstein, MA, LMFT-A

Therapist, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Associate

  • In-office Houston, Texas

Rachel Goldstein is an LMFT-Associate who specializes in supporting individuals & couples with relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, & personal growth.


" As an LMFT-Associate, my approach is rooted in building a strong, genuine connection with each client. I take a Collaborative stance in therapy, meaning we work together to explore your experiences, deepen your understanding of your circumstances, and …

  • 🎯 Direct
  • πŸ˜ƒ Humorous
  • πŸ™Œ Affirming
  • πŸ₯‡ Empowering

Becky Fenton, PsyD

Therapist, Doctor of Psychology, PsyD

  • In-office West Hempstead, New York

Becky Fenton, PsyD, seamlessly integrates CBT, DBT, psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness, executive function coaching & more to effectively support her clients.


" In my therapeutic approach, I seamlessly integrate proven methodologies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, psychodynamic and relational therapy, Mindfulness Training, and executive function coaching. This eclectic blend allows me to effectively support …

  • 🎯 Direct
  • πŸ’™ Warm
  • πŸ’‘ Solution-oriented
  • πŸ₯‡ Empowering

Heather Feigin

Therapist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW

  • In-office Passaic, New Jersey

Heather Feigin, LCSW adopts an active & collaborative approach. She firmly believes that the therapeutic journey should be a joint effort between her & each client.


" In my approach to therapy, I adopt an active and collaborative stance. I firmly believe that the therapeutic journey should be a joint effort, where both you and I play pivotal roles. I'm not one to shy away …

  • 🎯 Direct
  • πŸ’™ Warm
  • πŸ₯‡ Empowering
  • 🀝 Collaborative

Raizy Mushell

Therapist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW-R

  • In-office Brooklyn, New York

Raizy Mushell is a Frum Therapist, LCSW-R in New York


"

  • πŸ’­ Open minded
  • 🎯 Direct
  • πŸ’™ Warm
  • πŸ’‘ Solution-oriented

Judith Blumenthal, LMHC

Therapist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor; IN PERSON SESSIONS ONLY

  • In-office Brooklyn, New York

Judith Blumenthal, LMHC, specializes in CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness to support clients with relationships, emotional challenges, and more.


" My approach to counseling is straightforward: do what works best for the client. I do not rely exclusively on one or two modalities. Instead, I draw from a wide range of theories and strategies, tailoring my approach to …

  • πŸ₯‡ Empowering
  • πŸ’­ Open minded
  • 🎨 Creative
  • 🧘 Calm

Dania Brener

Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN

  • In-office Aventura, Florida

I empower my clients to make choices that align with their unique preferences in the realms of food, hydration, physical activity, sleep, & stress management.


" Central to my approach is the creation of individualized plans that cater to the specific needs and food preferences of each client while ensuring that they progress toward their health objectives in a sustainable manner. I hold the …

  • πŸ’™ Warm
  • πŸ‘‚ Listener
  • πŸ’‘ Solution-oriented
  • πŸ₯‡ Empowering

Malka Shaw, LCSW

Therapist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW

  • In-office Nutley, New Jersey

Malka Shaw, LCSW uses an interactive and collaborative approach and will be your partner, providing a safe space where you feel heard, understood, and valued.


" With an interactive and collaborative approach, I'll be your partner, providing a safe space where you feel heard, understood, and valued. We'll explore past traumas' impact on the present, gaining insights and coping skills for moving forward. By …

  • 🎯 Direct
  • πŸ’™ Warm
  • πŸ˜ƒ Humorous
  • πŸ‘‚ Listener

Rikki Ash

Master of Science, MS

  • In-office Woodmere, New York

Rikki Ash, MS, is a life coach whose style leans towards a forward-thinking approach, harnessing the power of the present moment to shape a brighter future.


" My approach to coaching is deeply influenced by the profound insights of Viktor Frankl, and I find myself drawn to his concept of "Logoanalysis." This framework serves as a guiding light in my coaching practice, aimed at alleviating …

  • πŸ’™ Warm
  • πŸ‘‚ Listener
  • 🌎 Holistic
  • πŸ™ Spiritual

Comprehensive Support for Jewish Families During the Perinatal Period

Providing holistic support for Jewish families navigating perinatal mental health challenges requires a multifaceted approach that integrates the cultural, spiritual, and social factors that shape their experiences. Effective interventions must acknowledge the unique needs and considerations of this population and offer tailored solutions that address their specific concerns.

This may include:

  • Culturally competent healthcare providers and mental health professionals who understand the nuances of the Jewish experience and can provide sensitive, holistic care
  • Support groups and community-based resources that foster a sense of belonging and understanding among Jewish families
  • Educational initiatives that destigmatize perinatal mental health issues and promote awareness within the Jewish community
  • Integration of traditional Jewish practices and beliefs into perinatal care and mental health treatment

By adopting a comprehensive, culturally responsive approach, we can empower Jewish families to navigate the complexities of the perinatal period with greater resilience, self-care, and overall well-being.

Cultivating Holistic Healing and Communal Support

Fostering holistic healing and communal support for Jewish families experiencing perinatal mental health challenges requires a deep understanding of the interplay between mental health, cultural identity, and spiritual beliefs. This involves seeking guidance from professionals who have extensive experience working with the Jewish community and are committed to providing culturally sensitive, integrative care.

Through a combination of evidence-based mental health interventions, community-based resources, and the incorporation of Jewish traditions and practices, Jewish families can address the multifaceted challenges they face during the perinatal period. This can include access to culturally competent support groups, integration of spiritual practices into their care plan, and the cultivation of strong support networks within their community.

By prioritizing the unique needs and experiences of Jewish families, we can empower them to achieve optimal mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being throughout the perinatal journey. This can lead to improved maternal-infant bonding, enhanced family and community connections, and a greater sense of empowerment and resilience within the Jewish community.

It is important to note that our professionals are experts in their fields, bringing both clinical expertise and a deep understanding of the Jewish experience to their work.

Our directory features professionals, including Therapists, Psychiatrists & Nutritionists, who offer culturally sensitive support for those navigating Prenatal, perinatal, & postpartum mental health within the Jewish community.

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