101 Basic Topics in Jewish Psychology

We will explore the fundamentals of the psyche and its wellbeing based on the classic teachings of Chassidut. Among the topics will be: the intermediate state of being (the beinoni) and our constant struggles; joy as a fundamental force of psychological well-being; the infinite nature of the soul; recreation at every moment and its application to psychology.

1 Semester / Mrs. Miriam Rhodes

102 Anatomy of the Soul

This two part course provides an in-depth study of the soul and psyche’s anatomy. Using an integrative model detailing 22 elements in the soul and in the psyche, this course will provide you with a clear understanding of the forces at work internally: from the faculties of the super-consciousness to the various forms of sub-consciousness.

2 semesters / R. Ephraim Ehrenberg and R. Nir Menussi

Sample class: 1st class of 2013-14 Academic Year 

(lecture begins at 3 minutes into the video. Sorry for the inconvenience)

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103 Rectifying the Ego

One of our fundamental courses, Rectifying the Ego is an in-depth study of how the ego develops out of our sense of self and how the ego's self-image hinders us from realizing the image of God in us shifting the focus of our lives away from out soul’s infinite nature. The course deals in depth with the proper way to react to our failures and success, thus properly navigating life's roller-coaster of ups and downs.
In addition, we will see what selflessness and lowliness are in the psyche and how they unify to provide us with a true state of being. Much of the teaching is based on the teachings of Rebbe Asher Freund as adapted by Harav Yitzchak Ginsburgh.

(this course is available as a distance-learning course)

2 semesters / R. Moshe Genuth

Sample lecture (1st lecture 2013)

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104 Submission, Separation, and Sweetening

In this course we will learn the Ba’al Shem Tov’s 9 stage process of change consisting of submission, separation, and sweetening. Based on Harav Ginsburgh's book (required reading), Transforming Darkness Into Light, this course serves as a first semester in this central concept. A second semester of more-in depth study of this concept is offered in the third year of study.

1 semester / Mrs. Miriam Rhodes

Sample lecture (second lecture from 2014)

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