134. Antisemitism and Mental Health with Malka Shaw, LCSW

Has modern therapy become a hostile environment towards Jewish people? I sit down with Malka Shaw, a licensed clinical social worker and trauma therapist, to delve into the pressing issue of anti-Semitism and its psychological implications. Malka shares her experiences as a therapist and the challenges Jewish clients face in therapy, particularly in light of recent events that have heightened anti-Semitic sentiments. We discuss the inappropriate remarks some therapists make, which can invalidate the experiences of their Jewish clients, and how this reflects a broader trend of misunderstanding and bias within the mental health field. Malka also introduces her organization, Kesher Shalom, which aims to provide education and support for Jewish communities while addressing the cultural accommodations needed in mental health practices. We explore the concept of anti-Semitism as a form of racism, the historical context of Jews as scapegoats, and the psychological mechanisms that allow such biases to persist. Malka clarifies the true meaning of Zionism and why the rise of anti-Zionist sentiments concern her. Throughout our conversation, we question why anti-Semitism is often overlooked and how it serves as a warning sign for societal health. Malka Shaw, LCSW (licensed in NJ, NY, and Florida), is a psychotherapist and trauma expert with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. Specializing in trauma recovery using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), she has built a private practice focusing on women’s wellness, relationship dynamics, and maternal health. Malka also provides clinical supervision, and consultation, develops continuing education courses on trauma and antisemitism; and often presents at professional events. Drawing on her experience with large-scale trauma, Malka founded Kesher Shalom Projects following the devastating events of October 7th. KSP's mission is to provide education and professional development on mental health and antisemitism, critical for building resilience within Jewish communities. By helping others understand the psychology behind antisemitic propaganda and its impact on society, Kesher Shalom offers valuable insights for combating antisemitism and supporting those affected. MalkaShaw.com KesherShalom.com Malka’s next training for therapists, coming up December 2, 2024: Navigating Trauma: GUARD System Techniques for Addressing Symptoms from Antisemitism and Prolonged Stress Books mentioned in this episode are listed below. "The Madness of Crowds" by Douglas Murray: https://amzn.to/40uFjlA View my complete list of book recommendations, including those written by authors who have been guests on this show, at https://sometherapist.com/bookshop. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links from my show notes or website. Thank you for purchases that support the show!  00:00 Start [00:01:21] Psychology of antisemitism and impact. [00:03:44] Mental health education gaps. [00:09:08] Anti-Semitism in healthcare settings. [00:11:18] Therapist validation of Jewish concerns. [00:17:36] Multi-ethnic identity of Jews. [00:19:56] Targeted hate crimes statistics. [00:24:16] Defining anti-Semitism and its nuances. [00:27:07] Jews as universal scapegoat. [00:30:22] Jewish identity and resilience. [00:33:44] Responsibilities of the chosen people. [00:37:34] Moral disengagement and accountability. [00:41:27] Moral disengagement and gaslighting. [00:48:22] Defining Zionism and its implications. [00:51:14] Right to live in our land. [00:56:00] Peaceful coexistence in the Middle East. [00:57:41] The meaning of Zionism. [01:01:49] Importance of diverse opinions. [01:06:08] Jewish culture and moral compass. [01:09:51] Cultural competency and anti-Semitism. [01:11:35] Gender crisis and care. ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Are you concerned about an adolescent or young adult with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria? Join at ROGDrepair.com and get instant access to over 100 lessons designed to equip you with the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month. TALK TO ME: book a discovery call. LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community. SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate. EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST. ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.  SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI. MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission. PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend! Learn more about Do No Harm. Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com. Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi. Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products. Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI. Special thanks to