Welcome Message

ABOUT THIS WEBSITE

This site is to help parents as they navigate their children's mental health challenges and to help others who care about those families in the Jewish community and beyond.  We hope to become a source of information and inspiration for families, schools, and communities to support children with mental health care needs.

OUR MISSION

To be a resource for families navigating their children's mental health challenges and build supportive school and synagogue communities.   We  help to identify resources and build supportive communities by connecting families and increasing awareness in schools and the synagogue community. 

ABOUT LISA ZIV

As a mother with two children struggling with depression and anxiety, I understand the complicated dilemmas and decisions that parents of children with mental illness face.  I know what it means to be strong for my kids and take care of things at work and home.  I know how hard it is to be a caretaker for someone with an invisible disease.  I understand the desire to keep it private for the sake of the child and the fear of judgement from those that think this is somehow poor parenting or a lack of strength in the child.  

On those rough days when I didn't know what to do, I was fortunate to have a support group -- trusted people that listened and helped me think through options and figure out the next step.   Even on the most difficult days, I always believed things would get better.  And, I had faith that this is all in G-d's hands.  Still, sometimes I needed someone to hold my hand.  Now that things are better, I want to help other families to connect to resources and provide support to get to a better place.

I am passionate about helping others to figure out how to support families and their communities.   I am not a clinician, mental health provider, or professional Jewish educator.   My perspective on so many things is filtered through my family’s mental health challenges.  

I have a Masters’ Degree in Business and advise organizations on operations, strategic planning, and financial performance.  I have taught at universities in Maryland and New York.  I live in Baltimore, MD, with my husband, three amazing teenagers, and an adorable dog.