Dr. Stuart Katz, PsyD, MPH, MBA, Dr. Stuart Katz is a respected figure in the Jewish community, a seasoned leader in the travel industry, and a passionate mental health advocate. With over 35 years of experience organizing Jewish travel experiences across more than 110 countries, his expertise spans both the for-profit and non-profit sectors, where he is known for his quiet yet impactful leadership.
Stuart co-founded Nafshenu Alenu, a Jewish mental health educational initiative, and serves on the Board of Visitors at McLean Hospital, affiliated with Harvard Medical School. He is the Chairman of OGEN – Advancement of Mental Health Awareness in Israel and Mental Health First Aid Israel, where he has led efforts to expand mental health awareness across the Jewish world. He has personally counseled over 7,000 individuals and families in crisis and has dedicated over 900 hours volunteering on crisis support lines.
Currently, Stuart is actively involved in supporting communities in Israel’s south, assisting in mental health rehabilitation efforts and promoting suicide awareness and prevention in response to the trauma caused by ongoing conflict. His work provides critical emotional support and resilience-building for those affected by war and terrorism.
Stuart’s commitment to Jewish life is reflected in his decade-long service as a synagogue president, both in the United States and Israel, where he led congregations with vision and compassion. He also serves on the Board of the Religious Conference Management Association (RCMA), helping to shape the future of religious conferences and gatherings.
As CEO of TAL Tours and Deluxe Kosher Tours, Stuart has led efforts to create meaningful and culturally enriching Jewish travel experiences. He served as Managing Director of Israir Airlines in the U.S. and President of IsraMedica. His deep understanding of Jewish traditions and extensive global travel experience allow him to connect with and uniquely inspire Jewish audiences.
An author and global speaker, Stuart is the creator of Travel Therapy, a therapeutic approach that integrates the transformative power of travel with mental health and well-being. He shares this approach from personal experience. He frequently writes and speaks on Jewish travel, mental health advocacy, and leadership, inspiring audiences worldwide with his knowledge and compassionate approach.