ABSTRACT
Ellen Kaschak states that writings by women therapists who are Jewish are not ordinary. It is easy to agree as these essays are extraordinary. They capture the diverse experiences of women with ancestors from Europe and Israel as they were raised in the United States. The intricate paths are traced along the lines of identity to families, religion, and culture. Most of these authors acknowledge their cultural ties to being Jewish, but several surprise themselves in realizing how strong an impact the Jewish philosophies have had in shaping their therapeutic styles. These women comment on how they now better understand the weavings of gender, ethnicity, race, sexual identity, class, and other dynamics in their lives and in their clients. They express a strong allegiance to social justice, tikkun olam (helping people), and feminism. Many cite secrets in their family histories, and they are committed to knowing, to remembering, and to questioning. They are rescuers, caretakers, and self-healers and have complex relationships with their mothers, fathers, siblings, and grandparents.
