Interactive webinar with Lewis Abrams, ACSW, LCSW, CASAC, CSAT on Jews and Addiction
With the increase in both substance and process addictions in our culture at large, the Jewish population has been effected in a variety of ways. In a generic addiction context and with specific emphasis on sex addiction, the presentation will provide a historical perspective of the evolution of Judaism, focusing on Jewish sub-cultures (particularly the various sub-cultures with in Orthodox Judaism) and various rituals, religious practices, nuances and traditions as they relate to the recovery process of addiction. Topics include:
- religious sub-cultures within Judaism
- rituals related to alcohol, sexuality, gambling, eating, money, work
- sexuality related religious laws/rituals: how education and communication is void in many families and the religious community
- Jewish Holidays that involve potential excessive drinking
- a predominant cultural Jewish Script: “we help others, we do not need help ourselves”
- the “no talk” rule in certain families and communities, ie: “don’t do your dirty laundry in public”
- key basic rituals, guidelines for religious observance
- shame and its effect on substance and process addictions
For the past 38 years, Lewis Abrams, ACSW, LCSW, CASAC, CSAT has been treating those afflicted with addictions and mental health challenges including adolescents, adults, couples and families. He has created and directed programs at all levels of care including traditional outpatient, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and residential services throughout New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
In addition to addiction treatment, Lew has specialized training in clinical supervision, group therapy, psychodrama, family therapy, and experiential techniques including anger discharge and grief work.
For over 10 years, Lew was the Clinical Director of Marworth Treatment Center, a nationally recognized system of addiction treatment services. Afterwards, as Executive Director of the Yatzkan Center, a not-for-profit residential long-term rehabilitation program for Jewish adolescents with substance abuse and emotional/behavior problems, Lew developed the program, increased the quality of treatment and assisted 200+ families, from all over the world.
He has also written numerous articles regarding substance abuse and mental health topics including “Judaism and Substance Abuse Treatment: Recovery and Renewed Spirituality”. Currently, Lew has a full-time private practice serving adults and adolescents, couples and families with offices in New York City and New Jersey.
If you have any questions, please e-mail dwagner@centerforhealthysex.com.
