jewish healing center

 The Jewish Healing Center is dedicated to providing a uniquely Jewish and spiritual perspective to everyday challenges and crisis situations. Are you dealing with the recent lost of a loved one? Struggling with the bereavement process? Looking to talk to a Rabbi, even though you’re not affiliated with a congregation? Have you recently been diagnosed with a chronic illness or cancer? Are you interested in exploring Jewish spiritual practices, like yoga or meditation?

If you answered yes to any of the above, the Jewish Healing Center can help. Call us today at (858) 637-3070 to find out more about the programs available to you.

Learn More About…
Upcoming Programs & Events
Programs and Services
Workshops and Support Groups
Rabbi Aliza Berk

SUMMER EVENTS & WORKSHOPS

Special Events

The Blessing of Joy
Thursday, May 23 • 11:00am–12:00pm
La Jolla Riford Public Library
7555 Draper Ave. • La Jolla 92037
Rabbi Isaac Luria taught that cultivating joy is essential for leading a spiritual life. Come explore ways to experience greater joy and fulfillment in your life. Facilitated by Rabbi Aliza Berk, LMFT. Pre-registration is required. No charge.
Register Online>>

Healing the Body and Spirit:
Guided Meditation for Spiritual Renewal
May 23 • 7:00–8:00pm
JFS Turk Family Center • 8804 Balboa Ave. • San Diego 92123
Meditative practices have been an integral part of Judaism for many centuries. Join us for a monthly guided meditation as we try to bring healing to the body, refuat haguf, and healing of the spirit, refuat hanefesh. No prior meditation experience necessary. Facilitated by Rabbi Aliza Berk, LMFT. Pre-registration is required. No charge.
Register Online>>

Centering the Mind, Body & Spirit
Wednesday, August 7 • 1:00–2:00pm
La Jolla Riford Public Library • 7555 Draper Ave. • La Jolla 92037
Rabbi Simcha Ziv writes, “Peace of mind is one of the greatest pleasures a person can have.” We will explore ways to find greater calmness of mind and spiritual equilibrium when faced with life’s challenges. We will draw upon Jewish ethical teachings to enhance our discussion. Facilitated by Rabbi Aliza Berk, LMFT. Pre-registration is required. No charge.
Register Online>>

How Gratitude Can Change Your Life
Wednesday, August 21 • 1:00–2:00pm
Tierrasanta Library • 4985 La Cuenta Dr • San Diego 92124
Explore ways to combine contemplative Jewish practices and Mussar (Jewish ethics). The study of Mussar is intended to help individuals find a practical pathway to spiritual growth. Discuss how gratitude can help you open your heart to the blessings in your life. Facilitated by Rabbi Aliza Berk, LMFT. Pre-registration is required. No charge.
Register Online>>

Spiritual Groups

Sacred Aging: Using Our Wisdom and Imagination
to Help Us Grow Older Gracefully
Join others to discuss cultural and spiritual ideas about growing older with dignity and respect. Using spiritual teachings and ancient wisdom, we will discuss ways to use our inner wisdom and creative imagination to help us become more fully alive. Facilitated by Rabbi Aliza Berk, LMFT. Pre-registration is required. No charge.

Wednesday, July 10 • 1:00–2:00pm
Tifereth Israel Synagogue
6660 Cowles Mountain Blvd. • San Diego 92119
Register Online>>

Bereavement Groups

Bereavement Support Group
While each individual processes grief and loss differently, healing is enhanced by reaching out to others who have experienced loss. Together, the group will address the social, religious, psychological, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of the bereavement process from a Jewish perspective. Facilitated by Rabbi Aliza Berk, LMFT. An assessment interview and pre-registration are required. No charge.

Tuesdays, July 9, 16, 23 & 30 and August 6 & 13 • 2:00–3:30pm
JFS Turk Family Center • 8804 Balboa Ave. • San Diego 92123
Register Online>>

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Programs and Services

Short-term Spiritual Counseling and Support
Individual sessions with Rabbi Aliza Berk.

Bikkur Holim Friendly Visitor Program
Matches Jewish volunteer visitors with isolated Jewish seniors and ill or homebound Jewish community members.

Torah Reflections Email
Weekly Torah commentary email focusing on healing, hope, recovery, and spirituality. In collaboration with the Bay Area Jewish Healing Center.

Jewish Women’s Healing Service
Service for Jewish women in need of psychological, physical, or spiritual healing.

Azkarah: A Service of Remembrance
Memorial service for individuals who have lost loved ones. Preceded by a spiritual support group in which participants share their stories of loss.

Spiritual Support for Older Adults
Monthly Jewish teachings and discussions at JFS's Aging & Wellness Centers located at College Avenue, University City, and North County Inland.

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Workshops & Support Groups

Bereavement Groups
Practical and spiritual Jewish resources and support for moving from grief to gratitude.

Chronic Illness Groups
Join others in a spiritual support group for Jewish people living with chronic pain or illness. Find comfort and compassion among those experiencing similar challenges.

High Holy Day Contemplative Workshop
Prepares hearts and minds for the High Holy Days by exploring forgiveness and hope. Topics and speakers vary each year.

Jewish Meditation Workshops
Devoted to exploring Jewish spiritual practices including Jewish yoga, Jewish meditation, and guided imagery.

Spiritual Direction
Prayerful and focused discussion on finding God in our lives and our world. Participants learn to practice “inner listening,” essential to living completely in the present.

For more information, call (858) 637-3070 or email.

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Rabbi Aliza Berk
Rabbi Aliza Berk, Director of the Jewish Healing Center, has experience working with people with chronic illnesses, individuals who have experienced domestic abuse, and families dealing with death, dying, and bereavement. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Spiritual Director. When working with clients, Rabbi Berk draws upon guided meditation, chanting, prayer, creative expression, spiritual direction, and knowledge of the psychological underpinnings of chronic illness and loss. Rabbi Berk accompanies others on their personal journey towards healing and wholeness.

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