Jewish Therapists in Ayr, ON

Photo of Niomi Anna Cherney, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Niomi Anna Cherney
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ayr, ON N0B
In our daily lives, we can run up against challenges that hold us back from living our lives to the fullest. These barriers and challenges have profound impacts on our mental health and wellbeing. I believe that truly seeing your identity in its complex layers can help you to develop advocacy skills, equipping you to be an advocate in your own life or your child's life. When working with children and young adults, I aim to understand the perspectives of child and parent together, seeking to collaboratively develop treatment goals that are client centred.
In our daily lives, we can run up against challenges that hold us back from living our lives to the fullest. These barriers and challenges have profound impacts on our mental health and wellbeing. I believe that truly seeing your identity in its complex layers can help you to develop advocacy skills, equipping you to be an advocate in your own life or your child's life. When working with children and young adults, I aim to understand the perspectives of child and parent together, seeking to collaboratively develop treatment goals that are client centred.
(548) 918-1175 View (548) 918-1175

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lindsay Kudlow, MEd, CCC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Lindsay Kudlow
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H  (Online Only)
If you find yourself navigating the complexities of adulthood, carrying the weight of childhood experiences, you're not alone. These impacts may surface in your current relationships, self-esteem, or the anxiety you face amidst life's stressors and transitions. This journey, while challenging, doesn't have to be walked alone. At Collaborative Care Therapy, we provide approachable, high-quality therapy, accessible virtually across Ontario, where your experiences are heard and understood – a place where healing begins with connection.
If you find yourself navigating the complexities of adulthood, carrying the weight of childhood experiences, you're not alone. These impacts may surface in your current relationships, self-esteem, or the anxiety you face amidst life's stressors and transitions. This journey, while challenging, doesn't have to be walked alone. At Collaborative Care Therapy, we provide approachable, high-quality therapy, accessible virtually across Ontario, where your experiences are heard and understood – a place where healing begins with connection.
(647) 697-5131 View (647) 697-5131
Photo of Erin Hatton, MACP, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Erin Hatton
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H  (Online Only)
My heart is for those who are overwhelmed, burnt out, stuck, struggling, and disconnected. Your story has made you who you are, but it doesn’t have to define your future. I believe you are the expert on your experience and my role is to help you find yourself again. During my years working with survivors of intimate partner violence, I developed a passion for supporting people through their personal journey of growth and healing. As a mother of four teens and young adults with ADHD and ASD, I am dedicated to helping individuals and families understand neurodiversity and learn to flourish.
My heart is for those who are overwhelmed, burnt out, stuck, struggling, and disconnected. Your story has made you who you are, but it doesn’t have to define your future. I believe you are the expert on your experience and my role is to help you find yourself again. During my years working with survivors of intimate partner violence, I developed a passion for supporting people through their personal journey of growth and healing. As a mother of four teens and young adults with ADHD and ASD, I am dedicated to helping individuals and families understand neurodiversity and learn to flourish.
(289) 278-8545 View (289) 278-8545
Photo of Justin Michel - Building Bridges Psychotherapy, MA, MSc, RP, RMFT, Registered Psychotherapist
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
We are a diverse team of over 50 licensed and experienced therapists! We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We help individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their heads that need to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
We are a diverse team of over 50 licensed and experienced therapists! We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We help individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their heads that need to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(226) 779-5096 View (226) 779-5096
Photo of Melanie Cordi, MACP, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Melanie Cordi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
Imagine a space where science and art harmonize, meeting you with understanding and creativity: this is the heart (and brain) of my therapy practice. I invite you on an exploration as unique as you are, where empathy lights the way. You are not alone, and I am so proud of you for taking this step! My own journey, where I overcame being unable to read until the 3rd grade, testifies that no obstacle is insurmountable with creativity, commitment, and support. I believe that for everyone, regardless of the cards dealt, there exist many paths to a fulfilling life—let’s discover together how your own path might unfold most vibrantly.
Imagine a space where science and art harmonize, meeting you with understanding and creativity: this is the heart (and brain) of my therapy practice. I invite you on an exploration as unique as you are, where empathy lights the way. You are not alone, and I am so proud of you for taking this step! My own journey, where I overcame being unable to read until the 3rd grade, testifies that no obstacle is insurmountable with creativity, commitment, and support. I believe that for everyone, regardless of the cards dealt, there exist many paths to a fulfilling life—let’s discover together how your own path might unfold most vibrantly.
(289) 274-5578 View (289) 274-5578
Photo of Tammy Marsh, BSW, MACP, RSW, RP (Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Tammy Marsh
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSW, MACP, RSW, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
Life is hard, and the challenges we meet in our relationships, work, and daily tasks can create tremendous stress and uncertainty. I provide a warm and comfortable environment where you and I can work as a team to unpack issues troubling you – I am non-judgmental, have a good sense of humour, and I thrive in supporting people through challenging times. As a mature woman, I have faced my own issues with anxiety, relationship stress, and parenting difficulties, and through my personal and professional experiences I have come to understand how powerful the psychotherapy process is at fostering self-awareness and emotional resilience.
Life is hard, and the challenges we meet in our relationships, work, and daily tasks can create tremendous stress and uncertainty. I provide a warm and comfortable environment where you and I can work as a team to unpack issues troubling you – I am non-judgmental, have a good sense of humour, and I thrive in supporting people through challenging times. As a mature woman, I have faced my own issues with anxiety, relationship stress, and parenting difficulties, and through my personal and professional experiences I have come to understand how powerful the psychotherapy process is at fostering self-awareness and emotional resilience.
(289) 278-7215 View (289) 278-7215
Photo of Stephanie Briskin, BA, BSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Stephanie Briskin
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N0B  (Online Only)
Taking the first step towards therapy can be really intimidating! My hope is to make this process as comfortable as possible for you. One of the most important elements of therapy is feeling a good connection to your therapist. I hope that’s with me, but if it is not, I work along with some very caring and talented social workers and we will connect you to right match. At Glimmer Therapy we are similarly skilled and our specialty lies in providing support for anxiety/depression, family stress, relationship challenges, parenting, work stress, as well as childhood and adult trauma. We offer the convenience of virtual therapy.
Taking the first step towards therapy can be really intimidating! My hope is to make this process as comfortable as possible for you. One of the most important elements of therapy is feeling a good connection to your therapist. I hope that’s with me, but if it is not, I work along with some very caring and talented social workers and we will connect you to right match. At Glimmer Therapy we are similarly skilled and our specialty lies in providing support for anxiety/depression, family stress, relationship challenges, parenting, work stress, as well as childhood and adult trauma. We offer the convenience of virtual therapy.
(647) 496-5807 View (647) 496-5807
Photo of Lorna Anderson, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Lorna Anderson
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H  (Online Only)
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** It’s a privilege and honour to be doing this work, and to walk alongside clients on their respective healing journeys. I believe that everyone is the expert of their own lives and life experiences. By working collaboratively and through meaning-making, I aim to support clients in connecting with their needs, dreams, hopes, as well as to the answers I believe each person has inside them. My approach is trauma-informed, non-directive, strength-based, and client-centered. Healing, the discovery of possibilities, one’s resilience, and one's gifts can all be part of the therapy process.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** It’s a privilege and honour to be doing this work, and to walk alongside clients on their respective healing journeys. I believe that everyone is the expert of their own lives and life experiences. By working collaboratively and through meaning-making, I aim to support clients in connecting with their needs, dreams, hopes, as well as to the answers I believe each person has inside them. My approach is trauma-informed, non-directive, strength-based, and client-centered. Healing, the discovery of possibilities, one’s resilience, and one's gifts can all be part of the therapy process.
(289) 272-7293 View (289) 272-7293
Photo of Jasmine Spurrell, MACP, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Jasmine Spurrell
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting and intimidating process. This is why I appreciate the strength and courage that it takes to reach out for help. I also admire the ambition and belief that positive change is possible. Therefore, I would be so honoured to support you in identifying your needs, goals, and taking these next steps with you. My goal is to build and maintain a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship with you, so you can feel empowered and confident, in yourself and in your decision making. I provide a comfortable and judgement-free space for you to be able to express yourself and grow.
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting and intimidating process. This is why I appreciate the strength and courage that it takes to reach out for help. I also admire the ambition and belief that positive change is possible. Therefore, I would be so honoured to support you in identifying your needs, goals, and taking these next steps with you. My goal is to build and maintain a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship with you, so you can feel empowered and confident, in yourself and in your decision making. I provide a comfortable and judgement-free space for you to be able to express yourself and grow.
(289) 806-7370 View (289) 806-7370
Photo of Justin Michel - Justin the Therapist, MA, MSc, RP, RMFT, Registered Psychotherapist
Justin the Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
I believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. I have helped hundreds of individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As a relational therapist, I appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. I do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, I see my clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. I see strengths and I see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
I believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. I have helped hundreds of individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As a relational therapist, I appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. I do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, I see my clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. I see strengths and I see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 274-8209 View (289) 274-8209
Photo of Jackie Ponomariov, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jackie Ponomariov
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1G  (Online Only)
You may be struggling with perfectionism, shame/guilt, anxiety, self-doubt, and issues with control. You identify as an overachiever, a helper, or highly sensitive person. You want to feel better and learn to stand up for yourself, but doing so feel terrifying. You want to live life on your terms, build independence, and feel confident and empowered. You hope to build up self-worth, let go of fear, stand up for yourself, and shamelessly prioritize your needs. In a warm, safe, and collaborative space, we'll work on ways to get you unstuck from the patterns that are weighing you down so you can feel lighter and live life with ease.
You may be struggling with perfectionism, shame/guilt, anxiety, self-doubt, and issues with control. You identify as an overachiever, a helper, or highly sensitive person. You want to feel better and learn to stand up for yourself, but doing so feel terrifying. You want to live life on your terms, build independence, and feel confident and empowered. You hope to build up self-worth, let go of fear, stand up for yourself, and shamelessly prioritize your needs. In a warm, safe, and collaborative space, we'll work on ways to get you unstuck from the patterns that are weighing you down so you can feel lighter and live life with ease.
(647) 932-7488 View (647) 932-7488
Photo of Building Bridges Psychotherapy Vaughan - Building Bridges Psychotherapy, MA, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 207-6240 View (289) 207-6240
Photo of Emily Galloway, MACP, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Emily Galloway
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H  (Online Only)
In order to work effectively on something, we must know its root and nature. I believe that half the battle is truly understanding why our struggles are occurring in the first place. Once we know the root of the concern and the thoughts, feelings, experiences, and ideas that reinforce its existence, we can then begin to dismantle its power—brick by brick. I believe in holding space for people to tell their stories and explore parts of themselves they may have never before felt safe to share with others. It is through this brave process of standing face-to-face with every part of who we are that we can decide who we would like to be.
In order to work effectively on something, we must know its root and nature. I believe that half the battle is truly understanding why our struggles are occurring in the first place. Once we know the root of the concern and the thoughts, feelings, experiences, and ideas that reinforce its existence, we can then begin to dismantle its power—brick by brick. I believe in holding space for people to tell their stories and explore parts of themselves they may have never before felt safe to share with others. It is through this brave process of standing face-to-face with every part of who we are that we can decide who we would like to be.
(289) 301-9627 View (289) 301-9627
Photo of Joy Pekar, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Joy Pekar
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
Do you, or someone you care about, live with chronic pain, chronic illness, or disability? Life can be altered dramatically by illness, injury, loss, and so much more. And change that feels out of our control is HARD! Whether you are trying to find yourself, find peace, or find joy, it can help to talk with someone. I offer a compassionate space for all people, regardless of ability, race, religion, ethnicity, gender, or sexuality. I take an anti-oppressive, anti-ableist, and trauma informed approach to therapy to ensure that everyone has a place where they can feel heard without fear of judgement.
Do you, or someone you care about, live with chronic pain, chronic illness, or disability? Life can be altered dramatically by illness, injury, loss, and so much more. And change that feels out of our control is HARD! Whether you are trying to find yourself, find peace, or find joy, it can help to talk with someone. I offer a compassionate space for all people, regardless of ability, race, religion, ethnicity, gender, or sexuality. I take an anti-oppressive, anti-ableist, and trauma informed approach to therapy to ensure that everyone has a place where they can feel heard without fear of judgement.
(289) 271-0571 View (289) 271-0571
Photo of Michael Hooghiem, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Michael Hooghiem
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
Life rarely goes according to plan, and in our most difficult times, many of us have not had the support and tools needed to navigate losses, transitions, and traumas. My role is to help you find your way through hardship, while expanding your capacity to meet challenges from a place of resilience and acceptance. Your struggles are not due to your own inadequacy; rather, I believe all behaviour makes sense on some level, when viewed from the right perspective. I work from a holistic stance that accounts for the individual, cultural, and societal factors affecting each of us uniquely, and therefore requires a personalized approach.
Life rarely goes according to plan, and in our most difficult times, many of us have not had the support and tools needed to navigate losses, transitions, and traumas. My role is to help you find your way through hardship, while expanding your capacity to meet challenges from a place of resilience and acceptance. Your struggles are not due to your own inadequacy; rather, I believe all behaviour makes sense on some level, when viewed from the right perspective. I work from a holistic stance that accounts for the individual, cultural, and societal factors affecting each of us uniquely, and therefore requires a personalized approach.
(226) 840-3194 View (226) 840-3194

Online Therapists

Photo of Aysha Natsheh, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Aysha Natsheh
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I am a queer mixed Arab Palestinian and white settler with Muslim and Jewish roots. I have a background in community-based and social justice oriented work, and have been practicing psychotherapy since 2020. I primarily work with folks navigating legacies of complex trauma, including patterned relational struggles. I also support folks experiencing food, body, and self image struggles through trauma informed, harm reductionist, fat positive, anti diet frameworks. More and more I support those navigating non-monogamy, as well as those exploring gender identity and transition.
Hello and welcome! I am a queer mixed Arab Palestinian and white settler with Muslim and Jewish roots. I have a background in community-based and social justice oriented work, and have been practicing psychotherapy since 2020. I primarily work with folks navigating legacies of complex trauma, including patterned relational struggles. I also support folks experiencing food, body, and self image struggles through trauma informed, harm reductionist, fat positive, anti diet frameworks. More and more I support those navigating non-monogamy, as well as those exploring gender identity and transition.
View
Photo of Samantha Richter, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha Richter
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6P
I identify as white, queer and Jewish.
We all have our own, beautiful, way of being in the world. At times, we feel our authenticity recede into the background. My goal is to join you in the depth of your sensation, and be with you in your experience of the world, in difficulty and in joy. Together, we can explore the truth of what it means to be you. We can stay with what is owned, pushed aside, shamed and beloved, and how that informs the ways we engage with ourselves, and the world around us. I work from a Gestalt perspective, which notices the patterns, the ways that we trip and ways we support ourselves in life, while being in the here and now of the current moment.
I identify as white, queer and Jewish.
We all have our own, beautiful, way of being in the world. At times, we feel our authenticity recede into the background. My goal is to join you in the depth of your sensation, and be with you in your experience of the world, in difficulty and in joy. Together, we can explore the truth of what it means to be you. We can stay with what is owned, pushed aside, shamed and beloved, and how that informs the ways we engage with ourselves, and the world around us. I work from a Gestalt perspective, which notices the patterns, the ways that we trip and ways we support ourselves in life, while being in the here and now of the current moment.
(647) 956-7206 View (647) 956-7206
Photo of Melanie Katz, MSW, RSW, BEd, Registered Social Worker
Melanie Katz
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4S  (Online Only)
With a special interest in youth and family mental health, Mel draws from her past experience at Kids Help Phone and Jewish Family & Child Service in Mental Health Day Treatment.
Mel offers tailored therapy for youth and adults tackling anxiety, ADHD, and relationship struggles. She passionately believes that overwhelming feelings should not restrict anyone from living a fulfilling life. Mel will be your ally, highlighting your inherent strengths, teaching you to set healthier boundaries, and enhancing your confidence. If you're having a hard time with personal, family, or friend relationships, Mel is here to help. She has the skills to assist you in making your relationships stronger and in building new positive connections with others.
With a special interest in youth and family mental health, Mel draws from her past experience at Kids Help Phone and Jewish Family & Child Service in Mental Health Day Treatment.
Mel offers tailored therapy for youth and adults tackling anxiety, ADHD, and relationship struggles. She passionately believes that overwhelming feelings should not restrict anyone from living a fulfilling life. Mel will be your ally, highlighting your inherent strengths, teaching you to set healthier boundaries, and enhancing your confidence. If you're having a hard time with personal, family, or friend relationships, Mel is here to help. She has the skills to assist you in making your relationships stronger and in building new positive connections with others.
(289) 212-6848 View (289) 212-6848
Photo of Katie Bergin, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Katie Bergin
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North York, ON M2L
Waitlist for new clients
With kindness, humor, and authenticity, I support clients to uncover inner resources and strengths that can help identify effective ways to cope with and overcome challenges. I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist, who is skilled at building an environment that encourages safety and trust. My foundation in community mental health has allowed me to gain comfort in supporting complex clients to explore meaningful growth when struggling with mood and behavior challenges, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, suicidality, and self-harm. As a Jewish Canadian, I am privileged to also offer a safe space to the community.
With kindness, humor, and authenticity, I support clients to uncover inner resources and strengths that can help identify effective ways to cope with and overcome challenges. I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist, who is skilled at building an environment that encourages safety and trust. My foundation in community mental health has allowed me to gain comfort in supporting complex clients to explore meaningful growth when struggling with mood and behavior challenges, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, suicidality, and self-harm. As a Jewish Canadian, I am privileged to also offer a safe space to the community.
(647) 696-6691 View (647) 696-6691
Photo of Michael Lander, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Michael Lander
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6G
My practice is steeped in compassion and connection, working with you to develop strategies that help you live the life you want to be living. With years of experience working with adults, youth, and families in the public mental health system I bring real-world therapeutic skills in supporting people of all ages to tackle some of life’s biggest challenges, such as family breakdown, self-harm, grief, and trauma. I collaborate with you to build a vision of your future self, uncovering and developing the pathways needed to build these visions into reality, and live out your hopes and values.
My practice is steeped in compassion and connection, working with you to develop strategies that help you live the life you want to be living. With years of experience working with adults, youth, and families in the public mental health system I bring real-world therapeutic skills in supporting people of all ages to tackle some of life’s biggest challenges, such as family breakdown, self-harm, grief, and trauma. I collaborate with you to build a vision of your future self, uncovering and developing the pathways needed to build these visions into reality, and live out your hopes and values.
(437) 747-6562 View (437) 747-6562

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Why is it important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive?

Therapists and clients don’t need to share the same background to be able to work together, but a therapist whose training includes a focus on cultural competence may be better able to form a therapeutic bond with individuals from a range of backgrounds, as they will have experience tailoring their approach to each client—and will be prepared to acknowledge and consider the effects of cultural forces, such as discrimination, that may contribute to that client’s concerns. With a professional who has such training, a client should feel comfortable discussing sensitive issues without feeling that they need to self-censor.

How can I recognise an effective Jewish therapist?

As with members of any religious or ethnic group, just because two people happen to be Jewish does not guarantee that they will share the same values, knowledge, or experiences. A Jewish client seeking a therapist who shares their cultural identity, or for whom it’s important that a therapist share their religious beliefs, may want to discuss a professional’s Jewish background with them before beginning therapy. For someone who seeks justification for major life changes in their religious tradition, or in biblical writings, finding a therapist who is comfortable framing guidance in that context may be especially valuable.

Would a Jewish therapist have unique training?

No, but they should have the same training and certification as any other mental health professional, as well as experience with a range of evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioural therapy or mindfulness-based therapy. A therapist with this type of experience should be able to help any client feel comfortable and safe, which is essential for a therapeutic alliance. Once this is established, a potential client may want to find out more about the therapist’s Jewish background.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with Jewish clients?

A client can directly ask a therapist if they have extensive experience working with Jewish clients and if so, whether these individuals sought counseling for faith-related issues or marital or familial issues in which their Jewish background was a factor. A client may also wish to ask a potential therapist whether they incorporate Jewish teachings and values into their own professional work.

Who is included in Psychology Today’s directory of Jewish therapists?

The directory of Jewish therapists includes professionals who have opted to share their cultural background on their profiles. However, not all therapists choose to disclose their background, and they may not appear in search results for this reason.The directory also shows therapists who indicate that they have extensive experience working with Jewish clients and/or communities.