PTSD Treatment in Israel: How the Feuerstein Institute Helps PTSD Survivors Rebuild Their Lives
Written by Ruthie Cohen
June 8th 2025
In the wake of the ongoing Israel–Hamas war, many residents living near Gaza—especially in towns like Sderot—have experienced unimaginable trauma. For children, parents, and entire communities, the impact of constant fear, sirens, and loss has led to a sharp rise in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In response, the Feuerstein Institute, a global leader in cognitive rehabilitation and development, has stepped in with a holistic, long-term solution.
A New Branch in Sderot: Hope in the Heart of Conflict
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Feuerstein Institute opened a dedicated center in Sderot to offer cognitive and emotional rehabilitation for PTSD survivors in Israel. This includes both children and adults who have been severely affected by the war.
What sets the Feuerstein approach apart is its focus not just on treating symptoms, but on empowering individuals to reclaim control over their lives. Through the Feuerstein Method, clients learn to plan, organize their time, improve communication, and regulate emotional responses.
“Some fight with family members. Some stay home all the time. If they hear noises, they start running,” explained Dr. Refael Feuerstein. “The Feuerstein Method builds bridges over troubled waters.”
Why the Feuerstein Method Works for PTSD
Unlike traditional PTSD therapies that may focus solely on emotional processing, the Feuerstein Method provides cognitive tools that rebuild the foundation of learning, memory, and self-regulation.
This method helps clients:
Improve communication skills and reduce conflict at home
Regain a sense of purpose and routine
Process traumatic memories in a safe, structured environment
Reconnect with personal goals and aspirations
Whether it’s helping someone pursue a law degree they put on hold or encouraging another to explore a passion for cars in an auto repair shop, the Feuerstein team reignites the spark of future possibilities.
A Personalized, Interdisciplinary Approach
Every person dealing with trauma is different. That’s why the Institute has created interdisciplinary teams composed of:
Communication specialists
Psychologists
Occupational therapists
Social workers
Rather than large group sessions, the team focuses on individual, tailored support. “We teach them how to speak to their partner and children, to avoid yelling,” said Dr. Feuerstein. “We help them dream again.”
And if one path doesn’t work? The team takes full responsibility, helping clients find the right support system—whether inside or outside the Institute.
Rishon LeZion: A Second Center for Cognitive Rehabilitation and Trauma Recovery
Beyond Sderot, the Feuerstein Institute has partnered with the Defense Ministry’s rehabilitation division, the National Insurance Institute (NII), and the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs to open a cognitive rehabilitation and trauma recovery center in Rishon LeZion.
This center serves both civilians and IDF soldiers dealing with:
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Cognitive impairments from head injuries
Long-term psychological distress
Treatments are intensive and ongoing—up to three times per week for five years—far exceeding the limited timeframe of government-run resilience centers.
“PTSD is not forever,” Dr. Feuerstein reminds us. “It’s a state, not a trait. We don’t just offer psychotherapy. We offer rehabilitation—to bring people back to life.”
Why This Matters
If you or someone you love is suffering from trauma or PTSD—especially in areas affected by the Israel–Hamas conflict—know that there is hope. The Feuerstein Institute is here not just to help you cope, but to help you rebuild.
Learn more about the Feuerstein Method and how it can support trauma recovery for civilians and veterans alike.
📍 Explore our centers in Sderot and Rishon LeZion
📞 Contact us today to find out how we can help