Jewish survivors of abuse need safe, healing places where their unique needs will be anticipated and where they will be cared for — physically, emotionally and spiritually.
Below are resources developed by Mayyim Hayyim’s Embracing Waters Initiative in collaboration with Journey to Safety at Jewish Family & Children’s Service. These trainings for volunteer Mikveh Guides and clinicians will assist mikva’ot in becoming even more welcoming and supportive to survivors of abuse.
Steps for Making a Mikveh Supportive for Survivors of Abuse
This introductory letter offers guidance on developing a partnership between the mikveh and local domestic abuse program, thus creating a mikveh that is more welcoming and supportive for survivors of abuse and trauma.
Read: Introductory Letter
Training for Mikveh Guides I: Abuse and Trauma
Part one in a two-part series, this session focuses on possible implications of abuse and trauma on mikveh visitors, community resources, and understanding one’s own reactions to abuse and trauma as a Mikveh Guide.
Read: Training for Mikveh Guides I: Abuse and Trauma
Training for Mikveh Guides II: Mikveh in the Aftermath of Abuse and Trauma
Part two in a two-part series, this session focuses on the stages of recovery and mikveh use, guidelines and role-play scenarios for Mikveh Guides, and self-care.
Read: Training for Mikveh Guides II: Mikveh in the Aftermath of Abuse and Trauma
Training for Clinicians working with Jewish Survivors of Abuse
This training provides an overview of domestic violence and the Jewish community, mikveh as a healing resource for marking life transitions, what happens at the mikveh, making referrals, and clinician self-care.
Read: Training for Clinicians working with Jewish Survivors of Abuse