What is Shemesh?
Shemesh is a modern therapy service designed to connect English speakers in Israel with highly qualified and vetted South African therapists. We believe therapy is a necessity, not a luxury, and we’re here to make it accessible, affordable, and effective for everyone.

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Why South African therapists?
South African therapists offer a unique combination of affordability, professionalism, and expertise. Our clients pay South African rates for therapy, making it significantly more affordable. Additionally, our therapists are highly trained, with an average of 10+ years of experience, and are fluent in English. You can trust that every practitioner on our platform meets our high standards of care.

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How are your therapists verified?
We take the vetting process very seriously. Only 1 in 3 eligible therapists who apply are accepted. To qualify, therapists must have at least 7 years of experience, a master’s degree in social work or psychology, and pass an assessment to ensure they align with our values and understand the needs of our clients. Our clinical director personally oversees this process to ensure the highest quality of care.

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How can South African therapists treat international clients?
We understand that cultural differences can be a concern, but our therapists are trained to work with clients from diverse backgrounds. They focus on treating universal symptoms and challenges, ensuring that you are seen and supported as an individual. Our therapists approach each client with an open mind, free from bias, and tailor their care to your unique needs.

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What are your prices?
Our sessions start at just 

59–

59–89, making us one of the most affordable therapy options available. We strive to work within your budget and believe that quality mental health care should never be out of reach. Pricing may vary based on the therapist’s qualifications, experience, and specialty.

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Is Shemesh right for me?
If you’re an English-speaking Oleh in Israel who’s been considering therapy or questioning your mental health, Shemesh is here for you. Aliyah can be challenging, and we’re here to make that journey easier. Whether you’re struggling with the transition or simply want to invest in your personal growth, our therapists are ready to support you.

How long does it take to be matched with a therapist?
Matching with a therapist is quick and seamless. From the moment you reach out to us, you can book a session in as little as 2 minutes. We know therapy is needed now, not weeks later, so we’ve streamlined the process to get you the help you need right away.
 

What issues does Shemesh address?
We focus on providing high-quality, affordable mental health care tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking for the right therapist fit (on average, people switch therapists 3 times before finding the right match), short wait times, or simply a supportive space to grow, Shemesh is here to help.

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Does online therapy really work?
Yes! Numerous studies have shown that online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy. For example, a study published by JMIR Publications found that users of online therapy platforms experienced significant reductions in depression symptoms. At Shemesh, we leverage technology to ensure you receive effective, evidence-based care from the comfort of your home (link it here https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6364202/)

 

What types of therapy do your therapists offer?
Our therapists are trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psycho dynamic therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, and more. During the matching process, we’ll ensure you’re paired with a therapist whose expertise aligns with your needs and goals.

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Do you offer couples therapy?

​Yes, we do! 

At Shemesh, we understand that relationships can face challenges, and we’re here to support you and your partner. Two out of three couples see therapists at some point, and we view ourselves as your partner in strengthening your marriage or relationship. Whether you’re navigating communication issues, conflicts, or simply want to deepen your connection, our experienced therapists are here to help. Trust us—it can do wonders for your relationship.

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How do I know if my therapist is the right fit for me?
Finding the right therapist is important, and we make it easy. If you feel your therapist isn’t the right match, let us know, and we’ll help you switch to someone who better suits your needs—no questions asked.

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What platforms do you use for online therapy sessions?
We use secure, HIPAA-compliant video conferencing tools to ensure your privacy and confidentiality. Once you’re matched with a therapist, you’ll receive all the details to join your session seamlessly.

 Is my information kept confidential?
Absolutely. Your privacy is our top priority. All sessions are confidential, and we adhere to strict data protection protocols to ensure your information is safe.

 Can I choose my therapist, or will you assign one to me?
Yes, We take the guesswork out of finding the right therapist by matching you based on your needs, preferences, and goals. However, if you have a specific request you can go directly on our therapists page and select a therapist that you feel resonates with you.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule a session?
We understand that life happens. You can cancel or reschedule your session up to 24 hours in advance without any penalty. Just let your therapist or our support team know.