RESOURCES for Healing and Understanding
The Kesher Shalom Projects brings together videos, podcasts, and other media resources to support Jewish communities in times of challenge. Explore tools and expertise for therapists, clergy, educators, and helping professionals to foster healing, resilience, and understanding.
RESOURCES for Healing and Understanding
The Kesher Shalom Projects brings together videos, podcasts, and other media resources to support Jewish communities in times of challenge. Explore tools and expertise for therapists, clergy, educators, and helping professionals to foster healing, resilience, and understanding.
Videos
Bill O'Reilly on Fighting Antisemitism (w/ Kesher Shalom Projects Founder Malka Shaw)
In this illuminating feature, Malka Shaw, LCSW, unpacks the complexities of psychological warfare and its destabilizing effects on Jewish identity. Malka highlights the critical need for cultural competency in mental health, introducing the GUARD system as a framework to navigate trauma and foster community connection. A vital watch for anyone seeking clarity, empowerment, and concrete steps toward building psychological resilience in today's climate.
Antisemitism of Identity Destabilization, Jewish Trauma, and How do we deal with it? - Malka Shaw, LCSW
In this thought-provoking discussion, Malka Shaw, LCSW, delves into the pervasive antisemitism of identity destabilization, exploring its deep impact on Jewish communities and intergenerational trauma. Malka offers insight into how these challenges shape identity and mental health, while sharing strategies for resilience and healing. A must-watch for those seeking to understand and address the psychological toll of antisemitism.
Jewish Trauma and the Antisemitism of Identity Destabilization
Jewish Trauma and the Antisemitism of Identity Destabilization
Malka Shaw, LCSW talks about Jewish trauma and its four distinct categories.
Malka Shaw, LCSW talks about Identity Destabilization and how it impacts individuals, communities, and our society.
Bridging Worlds: Identity, Culture, and Countertransference in Mental Health
Explore the critical intersection of culture, identity, and therapy in this vital presentation from the Association of Jewish Psychologists and Kesher Shalom Projects. Therapists Malka Shaw and Jodi Taub discuss navigating intergenerational trauma and a therapist's own countertransference to foster deeper understanding and more effective mental health care for all clients.
Together in Turbulent Times: A Support Space for Jewish Lawyers and the Legal Community
Our experts will discuss how to process the fear, grief, and trauma we are all experiencing with the rise of antisemitism and the impact of the DC shooting.
Malka Shaw Reclaims Jewish Identity in Mental Health 🕊️
Trauma therapist. Advocate. Cultural disruptor. Meet Malka Shaw, founder of Kesher Shalom Projects, who’s weaving Jewish identity into the tapestry of mental health and equity work. In a world still struggling with hate, she’s leading with courage, compassion, and cultural truth. 🌍✨🕍
Antisemitism and Mental Health with Malka Shaw, LCSW
In this episode of Stephanie Winn’s You Must Be Some Kind of Therapist podcast, Malka Shaw, LCSW shares her experiences as a therapist and the challenges Jewish clients face in therapy, particularly in light of recent events that have heightened anti-Semitic sentiments. They discuss the inappropriate remarks some therapists make, which can invalidate the experiences of their Jewish clients, and how this reflects a broader trend of misunderstanding and bias within the mental health field.
The Rise in Antisemitism: Navigating a Path to Strength
Malka Shaw, LCSW of Kesher Shalom Projects delivered an insightful presentation on The Rise in Antisemitism: Navigating a Path to Strength at the American Committee for Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem - Women's Health Day May 22, 2024. In her talk, she explored the recent increase in antisemitic incidents and offered strategies for resilience and empowerment.
Addressing Trauma in the Jewish Community with Malka Shaw
Malka Shaw, LCSW is one of the founders of Kesher Shalom Projects (www.keshershalom.com) this initiative was formed in response to the specific emotional needs arising from these tumultuous times, KSP is dedicated to addressing the trauma experienced by the Jewish community. The project was conceived by a trauma therapy specialist who recognized the urgent need for a focused response to the mental health challenges faced by our community.
Navigating the Labyrinth of Trauma: Insights on the Rise of Antisemitism with Malka Shaw
Navigating trauma's maze can be daunting, but Malka Shaw, clinical social worker and Kesher Shalom Projects founder shares insights from 9/11 to recent events in Israel. In a brief yet impactful conversation, we explore EMDR's transformative role, stress the need for trauma therapy training, and underscore the complexities within the Jewish community amid rising anti-Semitism. Malka's passion for empathy, cultural understanding, and the Kesher Shalom Projects shines through, leaving us with a call to action for a more compassionate world.
Understanding Antisemitism on College Campuses with Professor David Halahmy
This episode provides valuable insights into the complex issue of anti-Semitism on college campuses, offering historical context and practical advice for understanding and addressing this critical topic. Lisa Mustard speaks with Professor David Halahmy, a history professor with 27 years of experience, currently teaching at Cypress College.
Empowering Therapists: Jewish Trauma & Anti-Semitism Response with Malka Shaw & Stacey Shapiro
With over 25 years of experience in the field of mental health, Malka Shaw, LCSW brings her expertise in trauma therapy and EMDR, starting from the tragic days of 9/11 to complex issues like betrayal trauma and maternal wellness. Stacy Shapiro, LCSW complements this with her extensive background in individual trauma therapy, energy psychology, and innovative techniques like brain spotting. Together, they discuss the unique journey that led them to collaborate in response to the rise of anti-Semitic incidents.
Podcasts
The Psychological Impact of Antisemitism: A Deep Dive into Identity and Gaslighting with Malka Shaw, LCSW
In this powerful episode, we explore the complex interplay of trauma, identity, and antisemitism with the expertise of Malka Shaw, LCSW. As a seasoned clinical social worker, Malka delves into the concept of identity destabilization and the insidious effects of macro-gaslighting on the Jewish community, especially in the wake of recent global events. Click HERE to learn more.
Combating Anti-Semitism: Strategies for Therapists in Private Practice
Malka Shaw, LCSW and host Gordon Brewer, LMFT cover various aspects of Jewish identity, misconceptions about Zionism, advocacy for Jewish rights and diversity, supporting Jewish clients through trauma, navigating anti-Semitism in therapy, and cultivating empathy in therapy.
Jewish Trauma & Mental Health, Pt. 1: The Macro-Gaslighting of Global Jewry After 10/7
As Jewish TV Channel launches Part I of our Jewish Trauma & Mental Health Series, Laura Kessler sits down with 9/11 veteran trauma expert and Kesher Shalom co-founder Malka Shaw, LCSW to discuss the ongoing global mental health crisis affecting the Jewish community in Israel and the diaspora.
Meeting Jewish Therapeutic Needs
Malka Shaw, LCSW shares with listeners her work at Kesher Shalom, an organization dedicated to supporting mental health professionals with everything connected to the October 7th attacks, the recent rise in Antisemitism, and the general Jewish experience today.
Manifest Chutzpah (Conversations for Jewish Women) featuring Malka Shaw, founder, Kesher Shalom Projects
Malka Shaw, LCSW recently appeared on the Manifest Chutzpah podcast with Laurie Sanoff, where she shared her inspiring journey as a therapist and the founder of the Kesher Shalom Projects. Launched in the wake of the events on 10/7, the project aims to, "empower Jewish communities to heal, thrive, and build resilience in the face of unprecedented pressures and dilemmas." Don’t miss this enlightening conversation!
Featured In
Expert Commentary
Featured In / Expert Commentary
The Hebrew month of Elul should be a period of healing - opinion
Highlighting the transformative power of healing, the piece discusses how the month of Elul encourages individuals to engage in introspection, forgiveness, and renewal. Kesher Shalom Projects is featured as a vital resource for fostering community connection and support during this meaningful period.
Malka Shaw, LCSW, Jewish Resilience & Combating Antisemitism
Highlighting the work of Malka Shaw, LCSW, founder of Kesher Shalom Projects, this interview discusses how trauma-informed strategies, including her GUARD system rooted in CBT, DBT, and narrative therapy, can be vital in addressing the psychological impact of rising antisemitism and the spread of misinformation in the digital age. Shaw emphasizes the urgency of education, cultural competency, and building resilience within the Jewish community and beyond to counter hate and protect democratic values. Learn more about her approach to this critical issue in this insightful interview.
Psychologists Confront Rising Antisemitism, Campuses
This interview sheds light on how Jewish mental health professionals, including Malka Shaw of Kesher Shalom Projects and representatives from Gesher Campus Care, are actively addressing the growing challenge of antisemitism and ideological coercion within therapy settings, especially on college campuses after October 7th. The discussion covers the psychological toll of anti-Jewish sentiment, the destabilization of identity, and worries about political biases influencing therapeutic practices, underscoring the critical need for ethical, culturally sensitive, and unbiased mental health support for affected Jewish communities.
Jewish Social Workers Warn of Growing Antisemitism in the Field: “Counter to Everything That We Learn in Social Work School”
Highlights the details how Jewish social workers and mental health professionals, including Jennifer Kogan and Jodi Taub, are documenting and confronting a surge of antisemitism and exclusion across the field since the October 7 attacks. It highlights silencing, public targeting, double standards, and institutional silence, including from the National Association of Social Workers. While noting disciplinary and advocacy responses elsewhere. The piece underscores the profound professional and personal toll, eroding trust and sense of safety, and calls for the profession’s core values of empathy, dignity, and inclusive justice to be upheld for Jewish practitioners.
How Social Work Seems to Be Changing for the Worse
This piece explores how rising antisemitism and ideological division have swept through social work since Oct. 7. At Columbia, Jewish students are labeled “oppressors” and sidelined; groups like upEND single out Israel; and agencies including the Bronx Defenders face bitter rifts. Jodi Taub, LCSW, a New York clinical social worker with years in child welfare, notes Jews have long been excluded from DEI focus, ignored even as other communities are supported, with hostility spiking dramatically after Oct. 7. Many now entering the field prioritize protest over service, moving away from the inclusive, caring legacy of Jane Addams.
Read the full article from American Enterprise Institute here.
Articles
The Encampment Mindset
This post delves into the psychological underpinnings of student activism, examining how the pursuit of purpose and belonging can, for some, lead to ideological rigidity and a distorted perception of reality. It explores how cognitive biases, social influence, and even repurposed therapeutic techniques like thought-stopping and cognitive reframing contribute to this phenomenon, offering insights into why young people may engage in extreme actions and resist contradictory evidence. The article also suggests preventative measures and interventions to foster critical thinking and psychological resilience within student communities.
What I Carried Home from the Haifa Conference on Antisemitism
This article reflects on the Malka Shaw’s powerful experience at the 2026 antisemitism conference at the University of Haifa, held amid ongoing conflict and leading into Tisha B’Av. Bernard-Henri Lévy spoke of Israel’s profound global loneliness, yet the gathering of scholars and clinicians from 20 countries revealed something deeper: shared trauma lightened through collective witness, and the emergence of "vicarious resilience" as participants launched a new global association for antisemitism studies. Drawing on Jewish tradition, where grief and hope coexist. Malka Shaw frames resilience not as waiting to feel better, but as building together, leaving with renewed purpose to help communities heal.
How We Rebuild Courage Following New York’s Betrayal
This is Malka Shaw’s personal reflection from a lifelong New Yorker, frames Zohran Mamdani’s election as a profound blow to the city’s Jewish soul, deepening years of grief and disillusionment. It decries the normalization of anti-Zionist rhetoric as a cult-like force that divides Jews, distorts truth, and erodes belonging, even among some within the community. The piece links rising antisemitism to indoctrination and echo-chamber distortion, yet rejects despair, calling instead for moral clarity, courageous education, and collective action to rebuild, rekindle light, and stand unapologetically with Jewish identity and safety.
October 7 Shattered Our Sense of Safety but Not Our Capacity for Resilience
This reflection marks two years since October 7, exploring how collective grief, shattered trust, and global antisemitism have reshaped Jewish identity and sense of safety. It describes the destabilizing impact of societal gaslighting, being blamed for one’s own pain, and draws strength from Sukkot: the fragile sukkah as a metaphor for vulnerability that does not prevent joy, welcome, or community. Framing resilience not as a return to the past but as integrating pain into purpose, the piece offers practical steps to reclaim agency, connection, and meaning, affirming that brokenness and hope can coexist, and that we are never alone.
Education Alone Won’t Stop Antisemitism
This analysis finds that current efforts to fight soaring antisemitism, relying largely on history, politics, and trauma-focused education, are falling short. Antisemitism spreads not just from ignorance but from psychological drivers: blame, belonging, and simple answers to uncertainty. To fill the gap, education must move beyond lectures to dialogue, include the full richness of Jewish life and values, and build emotional understanding alongside critical thinking. Shifting from surface-level messaging to deeper, culturally rooted, trauma-informed approaches is essential to reach broader audiences and turn passive compliance into active solidarity.
A Therapist’s View: Jewish Students on Campus
This deeply personal account from a therapist explores how Jewish college students are enduring pervasive antisemitism that forces identity concealment, chronic self-minimization, and psychological numbing survival responses often mistaken for resilience. Unlike past eras, today’s fear is externally driven, eroding self-worth just as identity formation should unfold, leaving students anxious, adrift, and absorbing shame without strong foundations to counter it. The piece insists Jewish mental health support is not secondary but central: heritage and community must actively strengthen identity, so each generation can grow whole rather than diminished.
Chanukah and Gevurah: Courage in This Moment
Co-authored by Malka Shaw and Jodi Taub, this reflection frames Chanukah not only as a holiday of light but as an enduring story of identity under pressure, one that resonates deeply amid grief, rising antisemitism, and the Bondi attack. They examine how Jews today are pressured to edit their identity to belong, and how macro gaslighting erodes self-trust. Drawing on Chanukah’s deeper lessons, they affirm identity as non-negotiable, celebrate quiet courage, and remind us resilience builds one small, steady step at a time. The piece calls for genuine validation and support, concluding that light multiplies when we stand together, refusing to let darkness have the final word.
When Relief Feels Heavy
Written after the hostages’ return, this reflection from a trauma therapist explores the uneasy, bittersweet calm that follows prolonged crisis—when relief arrives tangled with grief. It explains the "anti-climax of safety": how the nervous system stays on high alert long after external danger fades, compounded by the shattering of trust and the painful realization of how fragile belonging truly was. We are not broken, but deeply changed, carrying both joy and loss, gratitude and vigilance. Healing means honoring this complexity, leaning on community, and moving forward not to reclaim an illusion of safety, but to build a more honest, resilient future together.
The Subtleties of Antisemitism
Written by Jodi Taub, this guide addresses the quiet, pervasive harm of subtle antisemitism, silence, erasure, and unintended hurtful comments, that often cuts deeper than open hostility. Drawing from her dual experience as a clinician navigating these moments personally, she offers five practical tools: setting clear boundaries, depersonalizing through educational gaps, rehearsing thoughtful responses, honoring grief over fractured trust, and holding space for healing. She explains how current events reawaken intergenerational trauma and affirms that therapy, rooted in Jewish identity and community, restores pride and resilience. Reminding us we are not alone, not imagining it, and not without power.
7 Ways to Support the Mental Health of Employees from Marginalized Communities
Navigating the complexities of mental health support in the workplace requires a nuanced understanding and targeted strategies. This article unveils a series of expert-endorsed approaches to foster a supportive environment for employees from marginalized communities. Discover actionable tips and insights that cater to the unique needs of diverse workforce groups.
How to Educate Others About Equity and Inclusion: One Approach
Unlock the secrets to fostering equity and inclusion with guidance from leading experts. This article delves into practical strategies for educating others on sensitive cultural topics, ensuring inclusive practices, and amplifying diverse voices. Gain invaluable knowledge on how to navigate the complexities of equity and inclusion in various settings, from private discussions to public campaigns.
12 Ways Therapists Can Advocate for Systemic Change in the Mental Health Field
Navigating the complex landscape of mental health requires more than just knowledge; it demands action. This article delves into the crucial ways therapists can become catalysts for systemic change, drawing on the wisdom of seasoned experts in the field. Uncover the strategies for advocating inclusion, addressing root causes, and influencing policies that can lead to real progress.
Creating Safe Spaces: A Conversation with Malka Shaw, Psychotherapist and Advocate for Mental Well-Being
📌 What You’ll Learn:
How Jewish values shaped Malka’s path into mental health.
Why trauma and identity are deeply linked—and what that means for healing.
What workplaces get wrong about psychological safety (and how to fix it).
How marginalized employees can advocate for their mental health needs at work.
What non-Jewish allies can do to support Jewish colleagues post-October 7th.
A simple but powerful technique to build daily resilience.
Understanding Identity for Resilience in the Workplace - Interview Insights
Highlighting the expert insights of Malka Shaw, a psychotherapist specializing in trauma and identity, this interview explores the crucial link between a strong sense of self and resilience, particularly in professional settings. Shaw discusses how leaders can apply principles of cultural competency and identity affirmation to create more inclusive and supportive workplaces, addressing biases like antisemitism and fostering an environment where employees feel safe to bring their full identities to work. Gain valuable perspectives on building resilient and inclusive workplace cultures from this interview.
Integrating Jewish Wisdom into Therapy for Healing Trauma - Interview Insights
Highlighting the unique approach of Malka Shaw, a psychotherapist with a strong Jewish background, this interview discusses how she integrates Jewish ideology, values, and traditions into her clinical practice, particularly in addressing trauma and the psychological impact of antisemitism. Shaw shares specific examples, such as the GUARD resilience framework rooted in Jewish principles, to help clients cope with distress and reshape their Jewish identity. Learn more about her insightful perspectives in this interview.