Retorno is a Jewish addiction treatment center in Israel, founded in 1998. This page brings together the key facts about Retorno in one place. For questions, call us in the US at (646) 248-7297.
Who we are
- Founded: 1998, by Rabbi Eitan Eckstein, together with co-founder Isaac Zollman. Rabbi Eckstein began working in the field of addiction in 1996.
- Location: Givat Shemesh, near Beit Shemesh, Israel. A green, kibbutz-style campus with trees, lawns and farmland.
- Oversight: All of Retorno’s activity is supervised and licensed by the Israeli Ministry of Health.
- Language: A dedicated program for English speakers, with English-speaking staff.
Programs
- Medically supervised detox: Alon for men and Elah for women. Usually 21 days to 6 weeks, with a nurse on site 24/7.
- Residential treatment in English: a 3–6 month program for men and women aged 18 and over, in separate programs. Adults are admitted only voluntarily.
- Online support: Mifgashim, Retorno’s online program, which also serves as aftercare.
What we treat
- Alcohol addiction and drug addiction
- Gambling addiction, in a dedicated program or combined with treatment for substance use
- Pornography and sex addiction
- Other behavioral addictions
How we treat
Treatment at Retorno is based on the 12-step approach, together with group and individual therapy. It also includes CBT, DBT, art therapy, psychiatric assessment when needed, and holistic therapies such as therapeutic horseback riding, animal-assisted therapy, therapeutic gardening, sports therapy, personal training and yoga.
Our clinical team includes clinical psychologists, social workers and a psychiatrist on site.
Jewish life at Retorno
- The entire campus is kosher, with separate meat and dairy kitchens and separate utensils, under on-site supervision by Rabbi Chaim Hellman.
- Prayers in minyan, Shabbat meals and a full Shabbat atmosphere. Jewish holidays are observed.
- Separate programs for men and women.
- Every level of observance is welcome.
Read more about kosher rehab at Retorno.
Cost
- Treatment is private pay. Retorno does not bill insurance.
- Pickup from Ben Gurion Airport is available.
For current fees, see Admissions and fees.
By the numbers
- Treating addiction since 1998
- More than 2,000 people treated
- More than 30,000 people take part in Retorno’s community prevention programs every year
Leadership
- Rabbi Eitan Eckstein – Founder and CEO
- Isaac Zollman – Co-founder and Vice President
- Aharon Sopher – Director of the English-Speaking Program
- Dr. Baruch Labok – Chief Psychiatrist
Frequently asked questions
Where is Retorno located?
In Givat Shemesh, near Beit Shemesh, Israel.
Is Retorno licensed?
Yes. All of Retorno’s activity is supervised and licensed by the Israeli Ministry of Health.
Is the campus kosher?
Yes. The entire campus is kosher, with separate meat and dairy kitchens, under on-site supervision by Rabbi Chaim Hellman.
Does Retorno treat women?
Yes. Women are treated in separate programs, including Elah, our detox center for women.
How long is treatment?
Detox usually takes 21 days to 6 weeks. The English-speaking residential program usually takes 3 to 6 months.
Does Retorno accept insurance?
No. Treatment is private pay, and Retorno does not bill insurance.
Who can be admitted?
Men and women aged 18 and over, who agree to come themselves. Our admissions team guides each family through the process.
Contact
- US phone: (646) 248-7297
- WhatsApp and Israel: 053-840-0374
- Email: reception@retorno.org
Last updated: November 2026