Rabbi Johanna M. Hershenson serves Congregation Ahavath Beth Israel in Boise, Idaho. Ordained at Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion in 1995, she has led Jewish communities across the United States, New Zealand, and the Czech Republic. She is known for her innovative approaches to worship, interfaith collaboration, and building inclusive, vibrant congregations.
In addition to her rabbinic work, Rabbi Hershenson is a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience in existential, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, and somatic therapies. She has provided counseling and consultation in Oregon, where she also conducted psychological and fitness-for-duty evaluations for first responders.
A documentary filmmaker and published teacher, Rabbi Hershenson embodies the Jewish values of ahavat re’a (loving one’s neighbor) and tikkun olam (repairing the world) in both her spiritual and professional life.
