AJMA Ilene Serlin ז”ל Trauma Mission to Israel

AJMA Ilene Serlin z”l Trauma Mission to Israel

June 17 - 24, 2025

This mission is designed for mental health professionals who are sympathetic to the plight of Israeli victims of October 7, 2023. The focus will be limited to understanding and supporting Israeli victims of terror and conflict. Participants will commit to attend the entire trauma mission program, and to become AJMA members.  

TRAUMA MISSION WEBSITE: For itinerary, FAQ, and additional information, visit https://sites.google.com/view/israeltraumamission/home

APPLY HERE:  https://makorjourneys.com/journey/ajma/

After submitting your application, a mission team member will schedule an interview to determine fit for the program. 

Once approved, you’ll be prompted to submit a $500 deposit, and you’ll receive a payment schedule for the balance due.

AJMA MEMBERSHIP: Approved trauma mission participants can use the code ILENE to join the AJMA at a 50% discount; visit www.theajma.org/JOIN.

FAQ

What is the intent of this mission?

Our mission offers a unique opportunity to learn directly from leading experts working on the front lines of trauma recovery, to engage with the complexities of trauma response in Israel, and to participate in profound, meaningful dialogue. Participants will gain insight into the nuanced challenges of healing in a conflict zone, while also experiencing firsthand the resilience and innovative approaches that define Israel's response to trauma. This journey is not just about learning, but about fostering deep connections, expanding perspectives, and cultivating a shared commitment to supporting Israelis affected by trauma.

It is also hoped that participants will share the knowledge gained upon their return. By helping others understand how Israelis are responding to the challenges they face, participants can play a key role in fostering greater support for Israel during this challenging time.

How do you see participants benefiting from it?

Participants will gain a deeper understanding of trauma and resilience through expert-led presentations, discussions, and immersive experiences.

Beyond acquiring knowledge of Israel’s cutting-edge approaches to healing trauma, participants will build a sense of connection and shared purpose over the course of the mission. Through shared experiences, firsthand exposure to the realities on the ground, deep conversations, and the connections that form along the way, participants will leave with greater insight, a strengthened commitment to Israel, and the inspiration to contribute in meaningful and impactful ways.

Is the mission intended only for mental health professionals working with trauma, or is it open to others who are sincerely interested?

This mission is not limited to mental health professionals. While we welcome social workers, nurses, psychologists, and their spouses, it is also open to others—regardless of profession—who have a deep commitment to Israel. Credentials are far less important than the ability to engage with respect and sincerity.

Certain sessions will be intense and emotionally challenging, so it is essential that all participants have the capacity to approach moments of conflict, discomfort, and pain with calmness, respect, and a shared sense of purpose, without contributing to polarization or division within the group or with others. For this reason, we cannot accommodate individuals who may be antagonistic, disruptive, or disrespectful toward speakers or fellow participants. Our mission is about support, learning, and solidarity in a highly sensitive environment.

Will the trip be documented?

Yes, the trip will be documented via video to support future learning. Participants will be asked to sign relevant waivers.

Are we offering therapy services as volunteers, or is this more like a conference?

Many opportunities to volunteer therapy services are available through various organizations in the US and in Israel. This trip, however, is designed as an information and empathetic listening mission on trauma management for participants to study with the top trauma experts in Israel about their work, and their discoveries in the post-October 7 context. It was the hope of Ilene Serlin z”l, who crafted our itinerary, to forge connections so that participants might be of future support to Israeli clinicians and/or patients. This would take place as an emergent outcome, rather than through a currently established infrastructure.

How many people are joining? Is the price going to change?

We do not yet know how many people are joining, as registration has just begun and is still open. Our minimum is 15, and our maximum is 30. If the price changes, that information would be shared with participants as soon as it is available.

Are tips included in the registration fee?

Tips are not included in the registration fee. In Israel, it’s customary to tip guides and drivers. For our journey, we suggest bringing up to $100 (in U.S. dollars or Israeli shekels, whichever you prefer) to cover this expense. We will collect contributions at the end of the mission and distribute the tips on your behalf, so there’s no need to manage daily tipping.

Are there options for single occupancy at the hotels?

Yes, the single occupancy supplement is listed on the price sheet at $1,630.

Can I request to be paired with a roommate? I’d rather not pay the single supplement.

Please notify us if you are interested in being paired with a roommate. We’ll coordinate that information and do our best to pair you if possible.

How do I know what flights to book?

Participants will be booking their own flights, as some will arrive early or stay later in order to visit friends or family, or do volunteer work.

Will people arrive at different times and dates and be picked up at the airport?

Participants are asked to send their flight itineraries to Makor (Harel Rosengarten at harel@igt.co.il). Included in the package price is one group arrival transfer from the airport to Jerusalem, and one group departure transfer from Tel Aviv to the airport. Makor will determine when to offer these transfers, based on the flight details. Apart from these two transfers, any other transfers will be at participants’ own expense.

General information about airport transportation is available in this video.

I want to arrive early or stay longer. Can you help me with that?

Makor will be happy to arrange any additional hotel nights for participants at the mission hotels (or any hotels of their preference). Please contact Harel Rosengarten at harel@igt.co.il

Do I need a visa to enter Israel?

Please visit these pages for information on ETA-IL:

https://israel-entry.piba.gov.il/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6yBwHYwo2A