5 - (SYM 147) Evidence-based Psychotherapy with Jewish Clients: Recommendations and Future Directions

Jews may be categorized as a distinct cultural, ethnic, and religious group and represent approximately two percent of the United States’ population. Despite the field of psychology’s increased focus on multiculturalism and culturally-sensitive psychotherapy, relatively little focus has been placed on if and how to appropriately tailor evidence-based treatment with Jewish clients within or across denomination (e.g., Reform, Orthodox, Reconstructionist). Limited research indicates the efficacy of mainstream psychotherapy (e.g., cognitive behavior therapy [CBT]) as well as the viability and potential benefit of incorporating salient aspects of Jewish culture, religion, and spirituality into treatment with Jewish clients. Indeed, this area of research highlights various relevant aspects of Jewish spirituality and religion to common concepts in evidence-based psychotherapy (e.g., behavioral activation). An additional broader area of research highlights various barriers to engaging in psychotherapy among Jews, particularly Orthodox Jews, as well as treatment-relevant beliefs and practices. This presentation will include discussion and review of relevant demographic and cultural information about American Jews as well as practice guidelines regarding the incorporation of Jewish spirituality, religion, and culture into evidenced-based psychotherapy (e.g., CBT) with Jewish clients. In addition, this presentation will identify current treatment-relevant issues facing American Jews as well as the potential negative impact of various antisemitic stereotypes on Jews’ well-being and treatment outcomes. Discussion and recommendations will incorporate the many different and intersecting aspects of Jewish identity and Judaism in the United States.