Jewish alcohol rehab is treatment for alcohol addiction in a setting that respects Jewish life and tradition. Retorno, a therapeutic community near Beit Shemesh, Israel, founded in 1998 by Rabbi Eitan Eckstein, treats alcohol addiction from medically supervised detox through a structured recovery program, with core therapy in English for people from the United States and around the world.
Signs of an alcohol problem
- Drinking more, or for longer, than you meant to.
- Trying to cut down and not being able to.
- Needing more alcohol to feel the same effect.
- Shaking, sweating, anxiety or trouble sleeping when you stop drinking.
- Drinking despite problems with family, work or health.
If these sound familiar, take our alcohol self-test or speak with our team.
Medically supervised alcohol detox
Stopping alcohol after heavy, long-term drinking can be medically serious. At Retorno, detox is medically supervised, at Alon for men or Elah for women, with a nurse on site 24/7. Detox usually takes 21 days to 6 weeks.
Treatment after detox
- The 12-Step approach: all treatment at Retorno is based on the 12 Steps.
- Individual and group therapy with psychologists, including CBT and DBT.
- Psychiatric assessment when needed.
- A therapeutic community: typically 3 to 6 months of living and recovering together.
- Experiential therapies: equine therapy, animal-assisted therapy, art therapy, personal training and yoga on a kibbutz-style campus.
- Family guidance during and after treatment.
Alcohol and Jewish life
For Jewish people in recovery, alcohol is part of many traditions: Kiddush, Havdalah, Purim and family simchas. Learning how to take part in Jewish life without drinking is an important part of recovery. At Retorno, treatment takes place in a kosher community with Shabbat, holidays and a rabbi on staff, and it welcomes people of any level of observance.
Frequently asked questions
Does alcohol rehab at Retorno include detox?
Yes. Detox is medically supervised, at Alon for men or Elah for women, with a nurse on site 24/7. It usually takes 21 days to 6 weeks.
How long is the full program?
After detox, the therapeutic community program typically lasts 3 to 6 months.
Is treatment available in English?
Yes. Our program for English speakers serves adults aged 18 and over, with separate programs for men and women.
Do I need to be religious?
No. The community is kosher and respects Jewish tradition, and it welcomes people of any level of observance.
Take the first step
If alcohol is hurting you or someone you love, contact Retorno today. Call us in the US at (646) 248-7297 or fill out the form on this page.
