This week, Tree of Life*Or L’Simcha Congregation announced that architect Daniel Libeskind was chosen to redesign the synagogue, 2 years after the shooting on 10/27. As this announcement may bring up a lot of mixed and difficult feelings for our community, we want to provide a list of resources that can help support individuals who may still be struggling.
Individual Counseling
One-on-one counseling can be an important piece in processing through trauma. A therapist can help you talk through your emotional reactions and give you the tools to help you learn skills to cope. Contact us at 412-422-7200 or counseling@jfcspgh.org to find out about our counseling services and other resources we may have to help you on an individual level.
Support Groups
JFCS and the 10.27 Healing Partnership offer support groups that may help you understand and process your emotions better through methods that go beyond traditional counseling. See if one of these groups may be a good fit for you.
Mindfulness and Meditation (JFCS)
JFCS offers a Mindfulness and Meditation support group every other Tuesday from 11am-12pm. Take an hour to learn how to cultivate greater awareness of your thoughts, feelings, and actions through the practice of mindfulness. Questions? Contact Angelica Joy Miskanin at amiskanin@jfcspgh.org. Register here to join.
Mindfulness Meditation (10.27 Healing Partnership)
Every Sunday at 4pm and Tuesday at 6pm, 10.27 Healing Partnership holds a Mindfulness Meditation group. The group can help you build a regular practice of mindfulness and meditation to help ground you during stressful or overwhelming times. They recommend creating or joining from a space without outside distractions. Find out more and register here to attend the next session.
Art and Contemplation
JFCS offers an art-based support group that may be able to help you process your emotions creatively. Through this group, you’ll explore ways art making can help regulate the nervous system, promote playfulness, imagination, help develop insight, connect us more deeply to our bodies, emotions, thoughts, and world views. No artistic experience is required and you should have some basic art supplies. The group meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday at 5pm. Register to attend this group.
Dealing with Loss in Difficult Times
This support group can help individuals process their grief in a time when isolation is prevalent. The challenges of loss can be compounded by additional losses of all kinds, making it difficult to find space for relief along the way. This virtual group, which meets every other Monday at 5pm, can help you find space to share your challenges and successes as you navigate the journey. Learn more and register for the next session here.
Open Space Group
If you’re looking for a space to just ask questions, connect with others, and take your mind off of the challenges you’re facing, our open space support group may be for you. Spend an hour with a JFCS counselor with space to talk about any topic and connect with others who may be struggling with similar things. This group meets on Thursdays at 6pm. See the dates for upcoming sessions and register here.
JFCS is here to help you through challenging times, including trauma and grief. If you’re not sure which resource is right for you or are looking for something outside of these services, contact us and we can help you find services and resources that you need.