In the wake of the firebombing of the Adass Israel Synagogue, Nafshi facilitated a community event to provide reflection, healing and support.
Rabbi Kohn of Adass Israel opened the evening by sharing insights from Rabbi Meir (Maharam) of Rothenburg (c. 1215–1293), referencing the kinah Sha’ali Serufah Ba’esh, which mourns the burning of the Talmud in Paris in 1240. Rabbi Kohn encouraged attendees to view faith as a process of growth, emphasizing the importance of unity and resilience in overcoming challenges as a community of faith.
Rabbi Dr. Dovid Fox of Chai Lifeline addressed the audience via Zoom, focusing on coping with the emotional aftermath of trauma, particularly following the fire at Adass. He highlighted strategies for helping children process such events, including gradual exposure and fostering open, supportive communication. For adults, he stressed the value of time, clarity, and community solidarity, urging both individuals and the broader community to prioritize healing and rebuilding. The session concluded with a call for professional mental health support and the utilization of community resources.
Rabbi Aryeh Goldman, formerly of Melbourne, moderated the Q&A session, addressing audience concerns and providing further insights into coping strategies and community resilience.
Nafshi has been established at a crucial time for the Jewish community. Mental health challenges, including difficulties accessing timely and effective care, are prevalent across all communities. For the Orthodox Jewish community, cultural and systemic barriers can make these struggles even more pronounced. Nafshi, founded by Shaya Spigelman (social worker at Monash Health), Izzy Baum (entrepreneur), and Moishe Gross (educator), aims to address these issues by improving access to evidence-based mental health care and creating culturally sensitive support systems for individuals and families.
Nafshi emphasizes education and early intervention. The organization is currently offering a culturally tailored parenting course for young men, providing participants with tools and resources in a supportive environment.
“Meeting the Community Where They Are”
“Our goal is to meet the community where they are and ensure our efforts are grounded in their real needs,” said founder Shaya Spigelman. “Through our initiatives, we aim to reduce barriers, promote early intervention, and provide critical support to individuals and families.”
Nafshi’s approach combines advocacy, education, and prevention, underscoring its commitment to improving long-term mental health outcomes within the Jewish community.
Clinical governance is overseen by experienced psychiatrist Dr. Sam Roberts to ensure Nafshi’s initiatives are informed by both clinical best practices and community perspectives.
“We believe that whether someone is experiencing physical or mental health concerns, they deserve the best care and the unwavering support of their community,” said Spigelman.
