Bereishis Foundation Expands Expertise with Addition of Renowned Therapist to Clinical Board, Invites Crown Heights Volunteers

by Shmuel Barr

In a move poised to strengthen its mission of providing accessible mental health support for children, the Bereishis Foundation announced today the appointment of Rivki Jungreis, LCSW, MS.Ed., to its clinical board. The addition comes alongside an exciting call for volunteers, opening new avenues for community members to contribute to the foundation’s vital work in fostering resilience and emotional well-being among youth.

Founded in memory of Dovid Horowitz, the Bereishis Foundation has been quickly breaking financial barriers to children’s psychotherapy. Azriel Boymelgreen, the foundation’s visionary leader and a member of the Chabad community, established the organization to ensure that therapy is not a privilege but a fundamental right for every child grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other challenges. By directly funding therapy sessions and empowering parents to select trusted therapists, the foundation has already transformed lives.

Jungreis, a licensed clinical social worker and trauma specialist with over 25 years in private practice, brings a wealth of experience to the board. As the founder of Advanced Psychological Trainings, LLC, and an EMDR consultant, she has trained professionals and treated individuals across age groups, with a particular focus on children, adolescents, and families. Her expertise extends to areas like anxiety management, homesickness in camp settings, and building resiliency, topics she has addressed in workshops for organizations such as Chai Lifeline. Based in Brooklyn, Jungreis has been a sought-after speaker on emotional health, postpartum depression, OCD, and eating disorders, often tailoring her insights to the Jewish community’s unique needs.

“This is a ginormous moment for us,” said Azriel in a statement. “Rivki’s deep passion for child development and her proven track record in trauma-informed care align perfectly with our goal of rewriting the future of children’s mental health. Her guidance will help us expand our programs, including free therapy and advocacy efforts.”

The announcement coincides with the foundation’s push to broaden community involvement through volunteer opportunities in its Department of Ruach & Resilience. The department focuses on podcasts, workshops, and resources that equip parents, kids, and teens with practical tools for emotional skills and thriving. Currently, the foundation is seeking a dynamic podcast host to plan episodes, conduct interviews, and share inspiring stories on resilience and well-being. Ideal candidates should live in Crown Heights, NY, comfort with conversations, and a background in mental health or child development.

Apply Here: https://www.bereishisfoundation.org/apply-for-podcast-host

Additionally, they are recruiting a Jewish male workshop trainer to lead programs in schools, camps, and community centers. This role requires experience in teaching, social work, or psychology, along with an engaging, empathetic demeanor and a commitment to youth empowerment. Those interested in these positions or other ways to support, such as donating or sharing resources can visit bereishisfoundation.org/volunteer for more details.

Apply Here: https://www.bereishisfoundation.org/apply-for-workshop-trainer

As mental health needs among children continue to rise, initiatives like those at Bereishis offer a model of compassion and action. With Jungreis on board and fresh volunteer energy, the foundation is well-positioned to reach even more families, ensuring that no child is left without the support they deserve.

Save A Life: https://www.bereishisfoundation.org/general-fund