Fields Center - Support Programs
A calm center in the frantic world of Los Angeles offering Jewish guidance for parent-child dynamics, significant relationships, marital support, interfaith issues, aging, illness, grief and loss. The Harvey J. and Sybil A. Fields Center provides a calm center in the frantic world of Los Angeles—offering Jewish guidance for parent-child dynamics, significant relationships, marital support, interfaith issues, aging, illness, grief and loss.
The Fields Center sponsors ongoing educational and support groups and a bi-yearly conference focusing on Health and Spirituality related issues. Ongoing groups, all staffed by exceptionally qualified professionals in their field.
View our Calendar of Events to find upcoming dates for the events below.
Making Marriage Work (Tuesdays)
Facilitated by Neil Einbund, MFT, Ph.D
This course led by Neil Einbund, MFT, Ph.D provides a safe, open environment for couples to share, develop and enrich their loving relationship prior to marriage. Couples strengthen their communication skills, Jewish values and hopes for a successful marriage. Co-sponsored by the American Jewish University and Wilshire Boulevard Temple.
Spousal Bereavement Support: Years One & Two (Tuesdays)
Facilitated by the H.O.P.E. Unit Foundation
Led by licensed therapists, this group offers support for the first two years of grief and healing. The group provides a nurturing environment to share experiences, gain practical information and receive personal support when you feel most vulnerable. The participating skilled and licensed psychotherapists are led by Jo Christner Psy.D. The group is non-sectarian and is open to Temple and non-Temple members.
Our weekly Fields Center bereavement groups are coordinated by the H.O.P.E. Unit Foundation. Visit their website www.hopeunit.org or call (818) 591-2706 or (818) 879-7777.
Spousal Bereavement Alumni Support Group
Facilitated by the H.O.P.E. Unit Foundation
Individuals who have attended the two years spousal loss program explore and find answers to questions about how to redefine life after two years of grieving the loss of a spouse.
The group is non-sectarian and is open to Temple and non-Temple members. If you have questions about Jewish customs regarding death and dying, do not hesitate to call Rabbi Fox at (424) 208-8932.
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Group
Facilitated by the MISS/TCF Foundation
The MISS/TCF Foundation support group is organized to provide comfort, validation and compassion for bereaved parents after a pregnancy or infant loss of any kind, for any reason. The group is conducted in a safe environment, where grieving families are able to either share their experiences or just come to listen.
For information, contact Sari Edber at sari.edber@missfoundation.org
Downsizing…the Whys and Hows
Facilitated by Willie Linsk
Downsizing the personal possessions we accumulate when we have lived in a home for many years is a daunting task for anyone. Often it is easier to just put it off for a while—until the time comes for you or your parents to move to a new home or to achieve a simpler life. But it need not be as traumatic as you expect. There are tips and tricks to organize the effort and make it manageable. Ultimately, everyone has to make their own decisions about what to keep, what to give away (and to whom), what can be worth selling (and how to do it efficiently), what charities accept donations and how to get rid of the rest. Maybe the information you learn will give you the excuse you need to get started sooner, rather than later.
Willie founded The Move Managers, LLC to assist older persons and their families in managing the myriad details associated with moving from a traditional family home to a smaller apartment or retirement community. She has served both business and non profit agencies.
For information, contact Phil Wallace at pwallace@wbtla.org or (424) 208-8932.
Jewish Wisdom and Wellness: A week of learning sponsored by the Kalsman Institute and Cedar Sinai
Facilitated by Marshall Zolla, J.D.
Look for community-wide events during the week of April 21-27 at Cedar Sinai that focus on Jewish wisdom and wellness. Wilshire Boulevard Temple is a vital part of the Kalsman Institute and we are grateful that Marshall Zolla, a long time Temple member, former officer and board member will guide a workshop; Rabbi Fox will be participating in seminars as well.
Advanced Health Care Directives: Practical and Sacred Decisions
Facilitated by Marshall Zolla, J.D.
Extremely challenging decisions are made at the end of life; however, talking through those issues, writing your wishes and communicating them to family is a vital part of that process. Sometimes we want to avoid these realities, yet we know, with planning, we can help those we love. What is an Advanced Health Care Directive? Who should know about it? How do you share it? Bring your key questions and let Marshall guide you through these sacred and practical decisions.
Marshall Zolla is a lawyer, specializing in family law. He is also an active leader within our Temple; he is a former officer and member of the board. Additionally, he has served the Union for Reform Judaism, as its chair of the Jewish Family Concerns Department.
For information, contact Phil Wallace at pwallace@wbtla.org or (424) 208-8932.
Defying Aging; Maintaining Memory
Facilitated by Estee Bienstock, RN
In California, we spend thousands defying aging, at least in the physical sense.
What are the behaviors that keep us vital and alert, active and engaged? Body and mind, soul and spirit need strength-building exercise. Learn key tricks, good practices and learning concepts that will keep you young in mind and spirit. Join Estee Bienstock, RN, founding director and manager of ALLPOINT Home Health, an expert in the Eldercare community, as she guides our conversation.
For information, contact Phil Wallace at pwallace@wbtla.org or (424) 208-8932.