What is a Jewish Recovery Center?
Clinical Excellence, Rooted in the Soul
Recovery is difficult enough without having to explain who you are, where you come from, or what you believe.
A Jewish Recovery Center is a treatment facility that integrates the highest standards of evidence-based clinical care with the timeless wisdom, values, and traditions of Judaism. It is a place where your identity is not a barrier to treatment, but a resource for it.
At The Tikvah Center, we provide a sanctuary where the body is healed through science, and the soul (Neshama) is nourished through connection.
More Than Just a "Rehab with a Mezuzah"
A truly Jewish recovery center is not simply a secular facility that serves bagels. It is a program designed from the ground up to address the unique cultural and spiritual needs of the Jewish people.
We operate at the intersection of two worlds:
The Clinical World
We are a licensed medical facility. We use psychology, psychiatry, and trauma therapy to treat the brain and body.
The Spiritual World
We use the Torah, Jewish ethics (Mussar), and community connection to treat the spirit.
By combining these two, we help clients find Teshuva—not just repentance, but a "return" to their true, healthy selves.
Why Choose a Jewish Program?
You do not have to be religious to benefit from a Jewish recovery environment. The benefits of this model extend far beyond ritual:
- Unconditional Acceptance: This is a space where your connection to your people and your homeland is understood, not judged. You will never encounter political hostility here, only support. Our approach is designed for those questioning recovery, those hurt by previous programs, and those seeking a place where their full self is welcome.
- Cultural "Shorthand": You never have to explain why you can't attend a session on Shabbat, why you keep Kosher, or the complex pressure of Shidduchim (matchmaking) or family expectations. We already understand.
- Overcoming Stigma (Busha): We know that in close-knit communities, the fear of gossip or shame can be paralyzing. We provide a discreet environment that honors your need for privacy while validating your struggle.
- Shared Values: Our program is built on concepts you inherently understand: Pikuach Nefesh (the sanctity of life), Chesed (loving-kindness), and Arvut (mutual responsibility).
- Rhythm of Life: Recovery requires structure. The Jewish calendar—with its weekly rest of Shabbat and the cycle of the Festivals—provides a natural, spiritual framework for rebuilding a chaotic life.
How It Works in Practice
At The Tikvah Center, Jewish life is woven into the fabric of the daily schedule, offering comfort without coercion.
- Kosher Nutrition: Our kitchen is strictly Kosher, ensuring that food is a source of nourishment, not spiritual conflict.
- Shabbat & Holidays: We observe all Chagim. Treatment pauses for Shabbat, allowing for a day of rest, reflection, and spiritual recharge.
- Rabbinical Support: Clients have access to compassionate Rabbis who specialize in addiction and mental health, offering guidance that aligns with Halacha.
- Spiritual Groups: We offer groups that explore the 12 Steps through a Jewish lens, finding parallels in the Torah and Psalms (Tehillim).
A Home for Every Jew
(And Non-Jews, Too)
One of the most common misconceptions is that a Jewish Recovery Center is only for the Orthodox. This is false.
We embrace the unity of all Jewish people. You don't need to run away from your community to a secular program.
- The Secular Jew: Connects with the cultural heritage and ethical framework without religious pressure.
- The Traditional/Conservative Jew: Finds a comfortable balance of tradition and modernity.
- The Orthodox/Hasidic Jew: Finds a glatt kosher, Halachically safe environment that respects their lifestyle while providing top-tier medical care.
For our non-Jewish neighbors
We welcome you with open arms. The principles of our center (dignity, community, and ethical living) are universal. You do not need to be Jewish to feel the warmth of our "tribe."
FAQs
Browse answers to popular questions. Don't see what you are looking for? Contact us!
No. While we observe Jewish holidays and Sabbath in the common areas, participation is never mandatory for non-Jewish clients. We respect your right to worship (or not worship) as you see fit.
There is a genetic component. Research shows that genetics account for about 40-60% of a person's risk for addiction. However, genes are not destiny. Environment, trauma, and mental health play huge roles. We help you understand your risk factors so you can manage them.
We view addiction through the lens of Pikuach Nefesh (saving a life). While the behaviors associated with active addiction can be destructive, the condition itself is an illness, not a sin. Seeking help is an act of courage and a fulfillment of the mitzvah to guard one's health (Shmirat HaGuf).
No. We treat a wide variety of behavioral health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship difficulties. You do not need a substance use history to access our counseling services.
No. Our center is a judgment-free zone open to Jews of all backgrounds—secular, reform, conservative, or orthodox—as well as non-Jewish individuals seeking high-quality care. We respect where you are in your spiritual journey.
Our Services
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