Course Overview

Relationships don’t just happen—they’re nurtured. This course empowers you to enhance, enrich, and nurture all your interpersonal relationships—at home, at work, and beyond. 

Explore classic Jewish texts to uncover knowledge and skills for practicing empathy, active listening, agreeable disagreement, interpersonal optimism, constructive criticism, and effective relationship repair. 

This course will satisfy most states' continuing education requirements for Medical Doctors, Psychologists, Social Workers, LMFTs, and LMHC/LPCs. 

The Details

6 Wednesdays | 2 Tracks
Starting Nov 13

Mornings: 10:30am - 12:00pm
At the Stamford JCC
1035 Newfield Ave, Stamford, CT 06905

Evenings: 7:30pm - 9:00pm
At Chabad of New Canaan
137 Putnam Road, New Canaan, CT 06840

$120 (Includes textbook)

Your Registration

Lesson Outline

Lesson One
The Art of Empathy: Nurturing Soulful Bonds and Deepening Relationships

Unlock the source of all great social connections and see how Judaism’s understanding of empathy enables deep, meaningful friendships that nourish your soul.

Lesson Two
The Art of Listening: Enhancing Connection through Mindful Communication

See how your attention shapes every relationship. Discover the power of attentive listening and why every word shared is worthwhile, and gain practical tools for effective, active listening.

Lesson Three
The Art of Disagreeing: Navigating Differences with Respect and Understanding

Does love conquer all? Explore when direct communication on hard topics is healthy, and when it’s not, and see how to sidestep personal offense, maintain grace, and achieve growth while navigating conflict.

Lesson Four
The Art of Positivity: Uncovering More Good in Those Around Us

How can we stay connected to flawed people? Learn to identify biases that misconstrue our view of others, and unlock the tools Jewish thought offers for seeing the goodness hiding in plain sight.

Lesson Five
The Art of Influence: Guiding Others with Love and Effectiveness

Learn the limits of “live and let live.” See how Jewish texts chart a kind, considerate, and effective path for offering critique and guidance grounded in genuine love and respect.

Lesson Six
The Art of Forgiveness: Restoring Relationships through Reconciliation

How can we rebuild after hurt? Explore a realistic approach to forgiveness that addresses wrongs while overcoming resentment, rescuing connections, and rebuilding relationships.

Check out the rest of this year’s JLI courses:

Decoding the Talmud
Winter 2025

Colorful Profiles
Spring 2025