Call Us: 408.556.0600
Pastoral Counseling and Group Support
If you are interested in private pastoral counseling, call 408-806-3586 or email Rabbi Brickner at barneyb@jfssv.org or call 408-357-7451.
Rabbi Brickner, our JFS SV Coordinator of Community Wellbeing, also leads various support groups.
Counseling Support Groups - Summer 2021
This summer, Rabbi Brickner is offering the following JFS SV community support groups. Support groups help to provide tools and friendship through sharing ideas and resources with peers and professionals. They are most helpful for families and friends needing “helpful hints.”
We Care: A caregivers support group for anyone navigating the day-to-day challenges of caregiving for a loved one. We meet every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month via Zoom, from 7:00-8:00 PM. Our first meeting is Wednesday, September 1st from 7:00-8:00 PM via Zoom.
Bereavement and Grief Support: A grief support group for people experiencing grief or mourning the loss of a loved one and looking for tools to cope with their loss and have an opportunity to share their feelings and seek solace and healing in a safe space. We meet every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month via Zoom, from 7:00-8:00 PM.
To learn more about participating in one of these groups, call 408-806-3586 or email Rabbi Brickner barneyb@jfssv.org.
Our professional counselors on staff, include:
Rabbi Barney Brickner, MA
Rabbi Brickner was ordained by the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, and has over 30 years of congregational and pastoral experience. Most recently, he was the Chaplain and Director of Mindfulness and Well-being for the Institute on Aging in San Francisco. In that capacity, he successfully developed a mindfulness and wellbeing program that promoted a safe, healthy and supportive workplace environment, resulting in reduced stress and anxiety for staff and clients. Rabbi Brickner can be reached at barneyb@jfssv.org.
Fern Adamkowski, MSW
Fern received her master’s degree in Gender, Spirituality, and Social Justice in 2014. This program guided her in more deeply understanding the intersections of struggle, resilience, and healing. She then went on to study social work and focused on integrative, trauma informed care. She received her Masters of Social Work in 2019. Her education guides her in her work and advocacy. Fern will spend her time between case management with older adults and counseling adults of any age. Fern can be reached at ferna@jfssv.org.
COVID-19 Update!
Remote Counseling Available
As the COVID-19 pandemic keeps people at home, many of us struggle with high levels of anxiety and stress.
JFS is here to support you and is offering remote counseling services via Zoom video meetings or phone. Fees are based on a sliding scale and evening hours are available.
For more information contact:
Fern Adamkowski ferna@jfssv.org
Rabbi Barney Brickner barneyb@jfssv.org
JFS SV provides professional therapeutic counseling to individuals and families facing a range of issues and life challenges. We provide support to children, adults, and families during times of crisis or periods of transition. Our counseling services are conducted Monday through Friday and are available on a sliding scale. We provide:
- Individual counseling services in a supportive, respectful and confidential environment
- Counseling and support for families in crisis or dealing with relationship issues
- Emotional support during times of transition (relocation, career change, divorce, empty nest, etc.)
- Spiritual counseling integrates spiritual exploration and support to foster wholeness, healing, and growth