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When manmade and natural disasters occur, Ohel’s Disaster Mental Health Services stand ready to provide essential crisis counseling and trauma support. With decades of experience, our team of experts provided support for New Yorkers struggling to cope after 9/11, Superstorm Sandy and the COVID-19 Pandemic.
We offer comprehensive crisis counseling for people in emotional distress, offering strategies and therapies to help them manage feelings of anxiety, fear, and hopelessness.
Response to Various Disasters
In the wake of disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, and mass shootings, Ohel’s Disaster Mental Health Services deploys in schools, workplaces, synagogues, communal settings, and homes, bringing help where it’s needed most.
“Traumatic events can overwhelm people’s ability to cope. Our work can ease the suffering of those who experience the impact of a disaster event,” said Tzivy Reiter, LCSW, director of clinical and national trauma services. During the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of individuals turned to Ohel for care, comfort, and mental health services. “We became the Jewish community’s central address for people of all ages who were coping with grief and loss during that trying time,” Reiter said.
The Importance of Mental Health Interventions
Studies show that interventions from mental health professionals after a disaster can reduce psychological distress and prevent long-term negative effects. From trauma counseling services to community education and outreach programs that build resilience, the Disaster Mental Health Services team brings comfort and support while preparing individuals, institutions, and communities to manage the ongoing effects of the tragedy.
Disaster Mental Health Services is a program of the Zachter National Trauma Center, Ohel’s comprehensive approach to trauma care. Our community-oriented specialists speak Spanish, Russian, Hebrew, Yiddish, and Mandarin.