Treating an Eating Disorder in a Yiddishe Home
As a Lubavitcher therapist specializing in eating disorder treatment, I see the unique challenges faced by individuals and families in the frum community. One of the most difficult aspects of recovery is balancing health priorities with Yiddishe values. I’ve written this article to share with the community that many of the hardest choices can be avoided with early intervention and awareness.
My background includes learning in Lubavitcher yeshivas, teaching Nigleh and Chassidus at boys’ yeshivas, and leading Chassidus and Sichos classes at a girls’ high school. After earning a master’s degree in psychology and obtaining therapy licenses in CT, NY, and NJ, I worked for four years at an eating disorder clinic in Connecticut. There, I gained a deep understanding of the recovery process—not just for clients, but also for their families—while navigating the complex decisions recovery often demands.
Unfortunately, eating disorders are often undiagnosed or untreated until they reach a critical stage. By the time treatment begins, individuals may require 24/7 monitoring in a residential facility to ensure they meet essential nutritional needs. However, eating disorders don’t develop overnight. They are often the result of emotional dysregulation, genetics, trauma, social pressures, or extreme dieting. Addressing unhealthy eating patterns, depression, or anxiety early can significantly reduce the risk of a life-threatening eating disorder and prevent the need for residential care.
While not every eating disorder is fully curable, studies show that early interventions can significantly reduce symptoms and psychological distress, often eliminating the need for intensive treatment.
Culturally Sensitive Care
A care team that understands a client’s cultural and religious background is essential for effective eating disorder treatment in the frum community. Whether choosing a residential center, partial hospitalization program (PHP), or intensive outpatient program (IOP), understanding our values and halacha plays a critical role in recovery.
1. Fasting Decisions – It is important to work with a Rav to assess whether fasting is safe and appropriate. In cases involving life-threatening eating disorders, most Rabonim I have spoken to advise clients to eat on fast days and tell them to consult their Rav before each fast day.
2. Kashrus vs. OCD – Navigating the line between kashrus observance and OCD tendencies can be complex. It’s vital to address this with a clinician who is familiar with and values halacha.
3. Shabbos and Yom Tov Challenges – Late meals and extended seudos can be particularly difficult. Some of the issues to discuss include eating with others, judgmental family, “challenge foods” and emotional triggers. Ideally a client will plan ahead to maintain recovery during Shabbos and Yom Tov and “unpack” the experience afterwards to prepare strategies for next time.
4. Family Guidance – It is important to work with families to help them make informed decisions about residential treatment, especially as it pertains to maintaining Yiddishkeit, and provide support for reintegration into the community afterward.
5. Medication Management – An APRN familiar with eating disorders and part of the Jewish community ensures that medication plans align with each client’s needs.
Recognizing the Stigma
Eating disorders can affect anyone, yet stigma and shame often prevent people from seeking the help they need. In the frum community, these challenges are compounded by a lack of understanding and the misconception that eating disorders are solely a physical issue.
We established B’Shalom Center to bring awareness to the community and provide a space for people to feel supported with therapeutic tools, friends and culturally aligned care at all levels of treatment. We foster open conversations that replace shame with compassion, and help families and educators gain understanding. We provide therapy, meal coaching, and medication management while respecting each client’s Yiddishe and Chassidishe priorities.
Confidentiality and respect are at the core of what we do. We understand the importance of trust, especially in a close-knit community, and we handle every individual with the utmost discretion and care.
The B’Shalom Center: Your Partners in Healing
At the heart of B’Shalom Center is a team dedicated to guiding individuals and families through the complexities of eating disorder recovery. Each member brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to providing compassionate, frum-sensitive care:
– Shlomo Bogart, MS, LPC, Rabbi – Program Director and Licensed Professional Counselor in CT, NY, and NJ. With extensive clinical and community experience, Shlomo leads our programs with a blend of professional expertise and a deep understanding of the needs within the frum community.
– Eli Bogart, MS, LPC, LMHC, Rabbi – Meal Coach and Ketamine-Assisted Therapy Specialist. Eli combines clinical expertise with practical, hands-on support to help clients rebuild healthy relationships with food.
– Devorah Kamman, MSN, APRN – Nurse Practitioner specializing in Medication Management. Devorah works closely with clients to create individualized medication plans that align with their recovery goals.
Recovery is a lifelong journey, and our team is here to support our community through all stages of life—from marriage and pregnancy to everyday stresses.
Reach Out for Support
Eating disorders are challenging, but with the right care and support recovery is possible. By approaching treatment with sensitivity, understanding, and a commitment to preserving Yiddishe values, individuals and families can navigate this journey with strength and dignity.
For practical tips on how to support a loved one during Chanukah and beyond, read this article on my website about eating disorder support during the holidays:
For personalized support, you’re welcome to reach out to me at (646) 763-1424 or email sbogartlpc@gmail.com.
