Shoreline retreat offers solace to trauma therapists scarred by Oct. 7

Fifty trauma therapists, the clinical backbone of the Sha’ar Hanegev Resilience Center, arrived at Nahsholim Sea Side Resort carrying an unspoken exhaustion. For years, these professionals have supported survivors, bereaved parents, and communities grappling with the aftermath of the Oct. 7 attacks.

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They came from the Sha’ar Hanegev Resilience Center, the clinical backbone of a region transformed by Oct. 7. For years, many of these therapists have sat with survivors, bereaved parents, evacuated families, children who lost their sense of safety, and communities trying to return to life while still living inside the aftershocks of catastrophe.

Before the war, the center was a small regional clinic serving about 10,000 residents and treating around 200 patients annually. Post-Oct. 7, it transformed into a large-scale trauma response system. More than 3,500 individuals have since received long-term psychiatric and psychotherapeutic care. At its peak, approximately 250 therapists were deployed across various locations. Currently, about 80 primary clinicians continue to manage over 1,100 active high-intensity cases requiring sustained weekly treatment.

The retreat at Nahsholim marked the first time many of these clinicians gathered away from the emergency atmosphere that had defined their lives. The resort, situated on a picturesque stretch of the Mediterranean coast, offered more than just accommodation. Its "Barefoot Luxury" philosophy emphasizes professional hospitality, comfort, and a deep respect for nature as part of the healing experience. For these caregivers, luxury meant space, quiet corners, and open air.

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For this group, luxury meant space – clean rooms, warm meals, quiet corners, open air, and a shoreline that allowed exhausted professionals to breathe differently.

The program focused on release and connection. Activities included a shared departure from their campus, a wine tasting, and arrival at the resort for opening remarks. Later, a bonding activity called "Suitcases of Happiness" fostered curiosity and teamwork, followed by dinner. The evening shifted to music, movement, and wine, offering a rare opportunity for the trauma clinicians to step outside their professional roles.

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The retreat was built around release.