Gil Eppstein
Social Worker for Youth and Young Adults At-Risk in the Social Services Department for the Yehud-Monosson Municipality
- Tell me about yourself-where you work now and how you got to the CCW student training program:
I have a Masters in social work and have been working in the welfare department for the last two years. I work with at-risk youth and am in contact with all the educational leaders, the police, everything that relates to the youth. I love my work and I am extremely happy with it. I enjoy being a social worker. I got to the Center by chance, at the last second. There happened to be an open slot and I was accepted to the program. I am extremely grateful for how things worked out. It was more or less my first time practicing traditional therapy. It was amazing! When I began at CCW, I instantly felt like a part of the team. I was not just a student, I felt like a colleague, and I was treated as such — the staff invited me to speak up, ask questions, and consulted with me. During supervision they encouraged me to speak up, I was seen as an equal. I was able to hear from the other therapists and about their caseloads. What I thought and what I felt mattered and was important to hear. It was an unforgettable experience! I consistently felt comfortable, I did not get a sense of hierarchy — the concept of feminist theory was ever-present.
- Had you experienced a feminist framework prior to your time at CCW?
Yes, from my time at university and it was part of my agenda, so for me, it made sense. That being said, I learned a tremendous amount since it is one thing to learn and a whole other to see it in action. I experienced it in the therapy room, during supervision, within relationships in the Center, and the idea of a cooperative organization.
- What tools and knowledge did you take with you?
I learned about the need to continue learning, especially from Dr. Simi Mizrahi, a senior therapist at CCW, who was constantly learning, asking questions, training others, never believing she knows everything; that was so influential for me. I learned how important it is to be a part of the staff. I learned that there is a broad spectrum of feminism across generations and that that is okay. I learned that there is no one treatment system and there is space for all. I learned that I wanted to be a therapist and that I have the ability to do so. I know that I can still consult and confer with my supervisor, which is extremely special. The staff at CCW remain women that I love and miss. I still feel that I am part of CCW — every time I see an ad or post about the Center, it gives me a sense of home. I am proud to say that I was part of CCW!
- How did your time in the CCW student training program influence your current role?
I think a lot of unexpected things throughout my studies had a deep effect on me. I had a feeling that I was in the right place, I was where I was meant to be. I saw the path of other therapists at the Center which gave me validation for the path I was choosing, and it gave me hope for the future.
I highly recommend to students to join the program. But you must be ready and willing to commit to learning, to work, to go through a process, to ask questions, and know your inner courage. I really love the Center.
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