Psychotherapy with the Orthodox Jew
Book Description
Dr. Herbert S. Strean bridges two worlds that have often stood in tension with each other: the realm of psychodynamic therapy and the deeply rooted traditions of Orthodox Judaism. This thoughtful exploration addresses the unique challenges and opportunities that arise when these two approaches to understanding human experience intersect.
Drawing from his extensive background as a psychoanalyst, teacher, and clinical supervisor, Strean examines how religious practice can serve both adaptive and defensive psychological functions. Through carefully presented case studies, he demonstrates how traditional psychoanalytic concepts such as transference, countertransference, and interpretation can be meaningfully applied when working with Orthodox Jewish patients.
The book tackles the historical ambivalence between psychotherapy and Orthodox Judaism, offering practitioners a nuanced understanding of how to navigate this complex therapeutic landscape. Strean's personal and reflective writing style makes sophisticated psychological concepts accessible while respecting the profound significance of religious faith in his patients' lives.
Rather than viewing religion and psychology as opposing forces, this work shows how a metapsychological approach to religious behavior and inner life can lead to greater personal fulfillment. The author illustrates how Orthodox Jewish individuals can experience enhanced well-being while maintaining their spiritual commitments, finding joy both in their religious practice and in their broader life experience.
This resource serves mental health professionals seeking to work more effectively with religiously observant clients while honoring both therapeutic principles and spiritual values.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Short (< 200 pages) (~5 hours)
🕉️ Tradition: Judaism
📄 Length: 179 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Judaism
- ✓ Explore Religious aspects
- ✓ Understand psychological principles
- ✓ Explore Judaism and psychoanalysis
- ✓ Explore Judaism and psychology
- ✓ Explore Psychology and religion
- ✓ Explore Religious life
- ✓ Explore Religious aspects of Psychotherapy
