Shimshon Sorkin

The distance between your dreams and reality is called action.

Shimshon Sorkin's style

Why Shimshon Sorkin chose to be in the helping profession

I chose this quote because it reflects what I believe sits at the center of coaching: the understanding that even when life feels overwhelming or automatic, there is always a small but meaningful moment where choice becomes possible. Many clients arrive feeling stuck in familiar patterns, emotional reactions, or habits that seem to run their lives. This quote serves as a gentle reminder to both of us that growth begins with noticing that space between what happens and how we respond, and with trusting that something new can begin there.

As a coach, this perspective keeps me grounded in the kind of work I want to do with people. I do not see my role as fixing or directing anyone, but as walking alongside clients as they slow down, reflect, and reconnect with their inner agency. Real change grows out of awareness and intention rather than pressure or force. When clients begin to recognize that space and use it with care, they often discover a deeper sense of empowerment, self-trust, and the possibility of lasting transformation.

This quote also speaks to my belief in holistic growth that includes mind, body, and soul. It honors the very real experience of struggle while also affirming our human capacity for resilience and freedom. It encourages me to remain present and patient in the coaching process, especially when progress feels gradual or uncertain. Holding that balance helps me create a space where clients can feel safe enough to explore, honest enough to face what is hard, and hopeful enough to keep moving forward.

Shimshon Sorkin's approach

My approach is holistic, collaborative, and centered on the unique needs of each client. I believe that meaningful and lasting change begins with awareness, with learning to understand patterns, emotions, beliefs, and behaviors as they show up in the present moment. At the same time, I hold deep respect for the personal history and life experiences that have shaped those patterns. I work alongside clients as a partner in the process, creating a space that feels safe and respectful, where insight, growth, and empowerment can unfold at a natural and sustainable pace.

In both therapy and coaching, I blend evidence-based practices with a relational and strengths-focused perspective. I help clients slow down enough to notice what is happening inside them and to recognize the space between impulse and choice, the place where intentional change becomes possible. Rather than fixing or directing, I see my role as supporting clients in clarifying their values, reconnecting with their inner resources, and building practical tools they can carry into everyday life. My goal is for clients to leave not only with new understanding, but with a stronger sense of confidence in their own ability to navigate challenges.

In nutrition counseling, I bring a compassionate, non-diet approach that honors the connection between mind and body. Together we explore eating patterns, emotional triggers, and lifestyle habits with curiosity rather than judgment, helping clients develop a healthier and more sustainable relationship with food. I view nutrition as one important part of a much larger picture that includes mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. By looking at the whole person instead of isolated behaviors, clients are able to create changes that feel aligned with who they are and how they want to live.

What you can expect from sessions with Shimshon Sorkin

ou can expect our sessions to be a safe, supportive space where you are met with respect, curiosity, and compassion. My role is not to direct or tell you what to do, but to walk alongside you as you gain clarity, insight, and practical tools to support meaningful change. Each session is collaborative and tailored to your needs, designed to help you slow down, reflect, and notice the patterns, beliefs, and experiences that influence your thoughts, behaviors, and relationships.

Together, we will identify goals that feel realistic, aligned with your values, and supportive of long-term growth. Sessions may include guided reflection, skill practice, goal-setting, and gentle accountability, always adapted to what feels most useful for you. We may also explore how lifestyle factors—stress, routines, nutrition, and self-care—impact your overall well-being. Throughout our work, you can expect active listening, thoughtful reflection, and a balance of insight, skill-building, and practical application.

I take a strengths-based approach that honors what is already working in your life while encouraging you to expand your awareness and emotional regulation. You are invited to move at a pace that feels safe and sustainable, knowing that progress does not require perfection, only honesty, awareness, and willingness. Above all, our work focuses on empowerment, growth, and connection, helping you develop greater confidence, resilience, and clarity as you move toward the life you want to create.

Shimshon Sorkin's experience working with the Jewish community

I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families within the Jewish community, approaching this work with cultural sensitivity, respect, and understanding. I recognize that Jewish identity is complex and multifaceted, encompassing religious observance, cultural traditions, family values, intergenerational history, and communal expectations. Each of these aspects can deeply shape a person’s experiences, choices, and sense of self, and I strive to honor all of them in my work with clients.

I have supported clients navigating challenges related to relationships, marriage, parenting, addiction and recovery, mental health, identity development, and life transitions in both observant and non-observant contexts. I am mindful of how stigma around mental health, concerns about privacy, and the importance of community reputation can affect help-seeking, and I work to create a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space. When relevant, I also integrate understanding of religious beliefs, spiritual practices, and halachic considerations into therapy or coaching, collaborating in ways that honor each client’s values without imposing assumptions.

Above all, I view cultural humility as central to my approach. I listen closely, remain curious, and allow each client to define what their Jewish identity means to them. My goal is to support clients in strengthening emotional well-being, relationships, and self-understanding while staying grounded in the traditions, values, and practices that are meaningful to them. By meeting clients where they are, I aim to create a space where growth, insight, and resilience can flourish.

Shimshon Sorkin's Book Recommendation Zone

• Viktor Frankl and the Psychology of the Soul - Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch, LMFT
  Viktor Frankl’s logotherapy, as presented through Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch’s Psychology of the Soul, deeply informs my understanding of meaning, choice, and human resilience. This approach emphasizes that even in the face of suffering, individuals retain the capacity to choose their attitude and find purpose. It integrates psychological insight with spiritual depth, recognizing the soul’s drive for meaning as a central force in healing and growth.
• Co-Active Coaching - Henry Kimsey
  The Co-Active Coaching model shapes my coaching stance by emphasizing that clients are naturally creative, resourceful, and whole. This approach views the client as the expert in their own life and prioritizes a powerful partnership between coach and client. The focus is on presence, deep listening, and evoking insight rather than giving advice or directives.
• On Becoming a Person - Carl Rogers
  Carl Rogers’ person-centered approach is foundational to my therapeutic work. In On Becoming a Person, Rogers emphasizes the healing power of empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authenticity within the therapeutic relationship. He believed that when individuals feel deeply understood and accepted, they naturally move toward growth, self-awareness, and psychological well-being. I integrate this approach by prioritizing a strong therapeutic alliance, meeting clients with warmth, respect, and genuineness. Rather than imposing interpretations or solutions, I trust the client’s innate capacity for growth and self-direction. This creates a space where clients feel safe to explore vulnerability, develop self-compassion, and move toward becoming more fully themselves.

Approaches

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Couples Counseling
• EMDR
• Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
• Inner child work
• Life Coaching
• Positive Psychology
• Reality Therapy
• Sex Therapy

Concerns

• Addiction
• Anxiety
• Dating
• Emotion regulation
• Insomnia & sleep issues
• Life purpose and meaning
• Personality issues & disorders
• Relationships
• Sexual health & dysfunction
• Stress management
• Transitions & Change
• Trauma

1 years in practice

Degrees

• BA 2018

Certificates

• life coaching in dating relationship marriage and intemacy , inner child, addition, mind body and soul by torahpsychology.org 2025

Trainings

• Torah Psychology by torahpsychology.org 2025

Affiliations

• orthodox by jewish community 2023

Average costs per session

$120 - $200

Payment Methods

• Insurance
• Cash
• Check
• Credit Card

Insurances

• Aetna
• Beacon
• BlueCross and BlueShield
• Blue Shield of California