About Us

Our Mission

Bikirbecha is dedicated to improving mental health and wellbeing for LGBTQ individuals from and in Orthodox communities through professional collaboration, community building, and evidence-based practice.

The Meaning of Bikirbecha

LGBTQ individuals are among us, in our families, our shuls, our schools, and our communities. We have a responsibility to ensure they receive the same quality mental health support and wellbeing care that every community member deserves.

The name Bikirbecha, meaning "in your midst," reflects this reality and our commitment to being present and supportive within the community. Through our programs and services, we seek to foster a culture of understanding and acceptance, empowering individuals to seek help and connect with mental health professionals who respect their unique experiences.

Our People

Tzvi Katz

Executive Director

Tzvi is a co-founder of Bikirbecha and serves as its Executive Director.

Benjamin Dukas, PsyD

Director of Education and Training

Benji is a psychologist at Soho Psychology. A co-founder of Bikirbecha, he serves as Director of Education and Training.

Miri Korbman, PsyD

Clinical Director

Miri is a psychologist in private practice specializing in DBT and adolescent care. A co-founder of Bikirbecha, she leads clinical standards as Clinical Director.

Rikki Herbst, LCSW, PhD

Clinical Lead

Rikki specializes in equine-assisted and somatic therapy. As Clinical Lead at Bikirbecha, she manages operations for the referral directory and coordinates support groups.

Avi Adams

Operations Coordinator

Avi Adams helps coordinate operations for Bikirbecha

Dr. Simcha Katz

Advisor

Simcha Katz is a former president of the Orthodox Union (OU)

Rabbi Eliezer Hirsch

Advisor

Eliezer Hirsch is the rabbi of Mekor Habracha in Philadelphia, PA

Rabbi Yosef Katz

Advisor

Yosef Katz is the rabbi of Anshe Chesed in Linden, NJ.

Motti Salzberg, LCSW

Clinical Advisor

Motti Salzberg is a psychotherapist with 25 years of experience working in the Orthodox community specializing in sexual issues and addiction.

Suzie Marder, LCSW

Clinical Advisor

Suzie Marder is a psychotherapist specializing in work with individuals, couples, and families. She has presented widely on anxiety, family dynamics, and parenting LGBTQ children.

Ilana Rosenbaum

Operations Coordinator

Ilana Rosenbaum helps coordinate operations for Bikirbecha

Clinical Working Group

Volunteer clinicians who advise Bikirbecha on clinical standards, vetting procedures, and content.

Current members include:

Benjamin Dukas, PsyD · Rikki Herbst, LCSW, PhD · Miri Korbman, PsyD · Motti Salzberg, LCSW

Members serve in an advisory role on a volunteer basis. Read more about scope and responsibility →