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VBS Counseling Center
VBS Counseling Center
VBS Counseling Center: Compassionate Support, Professional Care
Founded over 50 years ago, the VBS Counseling Center was created to meet a growing need for emotional support within our community. Guided by the belief that trained, compassionate, and dedicated volunteer counselors can make a meaningful difference, the Center has helped countless individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges. Our counselors—experienced and empathetic—offer insight, education, and creative strategies to address a wide range of emotional and psychological concerns. We are deeply committed to providing low-cost, high-quality care to members of the VBS community and the public, regardless of religious background or ethnicity. All services are delivered with the highest standards of professionalism, strict confidentiality, and an unwavering respect for every client’s dignity.
📞 To make an appointment or for more information, call (818) 784-1414
📧 Or click here to contact us via email
Areas of Support Include:
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Depression
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Relationship Issues
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Grief & Bereavement (including Widow/Widower Support Groups)
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Adolescent Concerns
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Stress & Anxiety
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Parenting Challenges
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Marital & Family Problems
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Communication Skills
All sessions are completely confidential, and fees are offered on a sliding scale.
The Counseling Center is located on the lower level of the main VBS synagogue building.
📞 To make an appointment or for more information, call (818) 784-1414
📧 Or click here to contact us via email
Counseling and Support Groups
CONVERSATION CIRCLES SUPPORT GROUP (Zoom)
A Zoom room to meet and make friends and share coping skills. Share your stories and get to know each other! Hosted by Judie Cotton, President of the VBS Counseling Center. We talk about everything and anything that lifts spirits and enhances connection.
Wednesdays 10:00-11:00am
Click here to join on Zoom
NEWLY SEPARATED AND DIVORCING
A support group for men and women going through the process of divorce. A place to meet others in similar situations and gain insight and strength to move forward. Leaders are Jane Blitz and Rozita Korie.
Mondays 6:00-7:30pm
WOMEN'S GROUP
For women 65 and over looking to gain support and insights on issues surrounding family, personal relationships, aging, and health. Led by Linda Pachino and/or Susan Samuels. For more information please call (818) 784-1414.
Mondays 4:00-5:30pm
SPECIAL MARRIAGE ENHANCEMENT COURSE
Provides an opportunity to place a marriage on solid ground by helping to prevent disruptions. This course will be of value, regardless of a couple's age, gender issues, religion, or the number of previous marriages. You are urged to spend a few hours investing in strengthening this most precious relationship. The course includes five 90 minute group sessions.
Fee: $150 for a 5-session course
For more information please call (818) 784-1414.
All groups are $15 per session. Group participants are pre-screened at the VBS Counseling Center. Groups will be formed according to need and availability. Contact the VBS Counseling Center at (818) 784-1414 for more information.
VBS Counseling Center Staff
Founders
Harold M. Schulweis z"l
Arthur D. Sorosky z"l
President
Judie Cotton, L.M.F.T.
Vice President
Marcie Howard
Spiritual Advisor
Rabbi Ed Feinstein, Ph.D
Counseling Staff
Debi Arditi
Rachel Arditi
Joan Blair
Jane Blitz
Judie Cotton
Arlene Davis
Dennis Berman
Lisa Dick
Farzaneh Eshaghian
Karen Getelman
Gail Gold
Karen Goss
Marcie Howard
Harvey Keenan
Rozita Korieie
Cindy LeBauer
Charmaine Lipshitz
Linda Pachino
Susan Samuels
Heather Silver
Barbara Starr
Eileen Sudeck
David Tobman
Barbara Weitzberg
Tue, May 20 2025
22 Iyyar 5785