Issues in Psychology, Psychotherapy, & Judaism

In the recent past, there has been a general resurgence of investigative interest in the myriad relationships between psychology and Judaism, and more specifically between the latter and psychotherapy that has greatly enhanced our understanding of the interface between them. This book contributes to that worthwhile goal. Between its covers, one can find a collection of articles by orthodox rabbis, educators, and mental health professionals, which discuss and explore a wide spectrum of relevant and topics of concern to professionals and laymen. Controversial issues, such as the attitude of rabbis towards psychotherapy, clerical-clinician cooperation, and Judaism's view and attitude toward homosexuality are discussed in an open and forthright manner. It is expected that some readers may take exception to the views presented, which will, hopefully, enhance further deliberation on these topics. Throughout the book, rich clinical material is presented to guide the practitioner in treating the ultra-orthodox community; in depicting successful collaboration between rabbis and clinicians; and in enlightening the reader regarding the psychological wisdom and insights of the Jewish sages and religious leaders.

The author of this slim volume is a senior clinical psychologist who has worked in a variety of mental health facilities in the U.S. and Israel for over half a century.

Unfortunately, for various reasons, halachic involvement in issues related to mental health is in its infancy. Therefore, the efforts of Dr. Seymour Hoffman, who has edited a collection of selected articles that deal with the interface of psychotherapy and Judaism and encourages collaboration between mental health practitioners and torah scholars, are very welcome. The articles contribute to a deeper understanding of a variety of halachic questions involved in mental health issues and the practice of psychotherapy, and in defining the specific roles and functions of rabbis and psychotherapists in helping people with emotional and psychological problems. -- Naphtali Bar-Ilan This small volume tackles head-on a large topic: the interface between Judaism and Psychology and Psychotherapy. In 11 diverse chapters, issues that are relevant to the therapeutic interaction, amongst others, are explored by an eclectic group of mental health professionals. The papers are user-friendly, down-to-earth, yet infused with an interesting combination of psychological as well as Jewish concepts and ideas. This book is well worth reading. -- Stanley Schneider, Professor and Chairman, Integrative Psychotherapy Program, Hebrew University in Jerusalem, Israel; Training and Supervising Psyc Mental health practitioners, rabbis, as well as those interested in the interface of psychology, psychotherapy, and Judaism, will find interest and benefit from reading this book. -- Professor Lily Dimitrovsky ForeWord Reviews