How does Misholim give a voice to children living in silence?
Many children carry deep emotional pain but struggle to express what they are feeling. Trauma, anxiety, behavioural challenges and communication difficulties can leave them feeling isolated, misunderstood and trapped in silence. Since October 7th and the ongoing war, the emotional needs of children and families across Israel have only intensified, with more young people experiencing fear, instability and emotional distress.
At Misholim, children, youth and their families are given a safe and nurturing space to heal through the power of expressive arts therapy. Based in Jerusalem, Misholim uses art, music, movement, drama and creative play to help children communicate emotions they may not yet have the words to express. Through personalised individual and group therapy programmes, children learn to process trauma, build self-confidence, strengthen social skills and reconnect positively with the people around them. Misholim also works closely with parents, guiding them through counselling and support sessions so they can better understand and help their children throughout the healing journey. For thousands of families, Misholim has become a vital lifeline, transforming silence and pain into connection, resilience and hope.
Every story matters
MEET IDO
14-year-old Ido began individual music therapy at Misholim two and a half years ago. His anti-social behaviour at school had become intolerable for his teachers – he would regularly demean and disparage his classmates and occasionally instigated physical confrontations. His parents didn’t know where to turn until they heard about Misholim. Ido has a remarkable talent and love for music so combining his passion with therapy seemed the best way to focus his energy.
Through his music therapy classes and artistic workshops at Misholim, Ido has developed an understanding of how he is perceived by others and how this affects their attitude towards him. The social workers and teachers at Misholim have been working with Ido to find ways he can avoid social conflict and overcome feelings of aggression in a peaceful way.
Misholim have also worked very closely with Ido’s parents who had previously feared their son’s behaviour and retreated from it. Together, they are learning how to support Ido in the most effective way and take back some control in their relationship with him.
Step by step, the family are building bridges and finding new ways of communicating.
