Psychological and Therapeutic Counselling Services South Africa
Bimaristan SA
Therapeutic Counselling
Care that flows where it's needed most
The Fountain for Humanity (FFH) is a registered NPO dedicated to reviving the ancient legacy of the Bimaristan within the modern South African landscape. Historically, Bimaristans were more than hospitals; they were ‘places of healing’, offering universal, holistic care, integrating medical science with psychological support and spiritual wellness.
In South Africa today, specifically across our hubs in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, and Gqeberha (previously Port Elizabeth), we are reviving this age-old tradition to address the unique pressures of our community and humanitarian sector. In a stressful and often unpredictable world, FFH serves as a sanctuary, where healing is accessible to everyone. Here, professionals embody clinical excellence and provide psychological and counselling care, respecting and nurturing the innate nature and dignity of every individual.
The Wellkeepers
Tending the well of healing
Our counsellors, known collectively as The Wellkeepers, are South African professionals bringing over 40 years of combined professional experience in psychology, therapeutic counselling and community-based care, allowing them to respond with sensitivity, cultural awareness and clinical insight. Working as a collective allows them to offer care that is consistent, confidential and grounded in an understanding of the communities they serve.
Experienced & Grounded Care
Our Wellkeepers bring deep professional experience and a strong understanding of the social and emotional realities within South Africa.
Care That Flows With You
Short term support is offered at a pace that feels right for you, with thoughtful compassion and continuity of care across our online services and in-person sessions.
Where Healing Flows
Organisational Referrals for Therapeutic Counselling
Fountain for Humanity collaborates with humanitarian and community organisations to provide Therapeutic Counselling. Organisations may initiate referrals for individuals or groups identified within their programmes.
Submit Referral Enquiry
The Flow of Healing
Therapeutic support for vulnerable lives
As the Bimaristan encompassed numerous service departments, the Fountain for Humanity offers a range of therapeutic counselling services. This enables referring NPOs to identify the appropriate "pathway" for their care needs.
Crisis & Trauma
Dar al-Shifah • Place of Healing
Following a referral from an NPO or humanitarian organisation*, we provide compassionate support for individuals experiencing trauma, with care focused on emotional recovery following:
- accidents and injury
- abuse and gender-based harm
- natural disasters and humanitarian crisis
- being a victim of crime and violence
- grief, shock and emotional distress
Immediate Crisis Support
For immediate assistance during a mental health emergency, suicidal crisis, or any situation involving immediate risk of harm, please contact emergency or crisis support services directly.
Fountain for Humanity provides therapeutic counselling and ongoing emotional support, but is not an emergency response or 24-hour crisis intervention service. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, requires urgent medical attention, or is experiencing an active suicidal crisis, please contact the crisis support services below without delay.
SADAG Suicide Crisis
0800 567 567
Lifeline South Africa
0861 322 322
Suicide Crisis Helpline
0800 212 223
Emergency Services
10111
Youth & Psycho-Education
Dar al-Tarbiyyah • Place of Psycho-Education
Following a referral from an NPO or humanitarian organisation*, we provide support for children, teenagers and the adults guiding them through the emotional, social and educational challenges of growth, development and learning.
- play and adolescence short-term therapy
- emotional and behavioural support
- parent, caregiver and educator guidance
- creating supportive environments for growth and wellbeing
Life Journey & Relationships
Dar al-Sulook • Place of Wayfaring
Following a referral from an NPO or humanitarian organisation*, we can offer support for the relationships, transitions and stages of life that shape the human journey, providing care through moments of connection, change, loss and growth.
- marital and divorce care
- grief, bereavement and emotional loss
- family and interpersonal relationships
- identity, purpose and personal growth
- support through life transitions
Emotional & Physical Regulation
Dar al-Nafs • Place of Self
Following a referral from an NPO or humanitarian organisation*, we offer therapeutic counselling focusing on emotional wellbeing, inner balance and the challenges that affect daily life and functioning.
- stress
- burnout
- emotional fatigue
- emotional aid
- anger management
- emotional regulation
Professional Support, Frontline Care & Spiritual Growth
Dar al-Hikma • Place of Wisdom
Following a referral from an NPO or humanitarian organisation*, we offer therapeutic counselling for frontline aid workers, practitioners and caregivers.
- burnout support and emotional recovery
- support for frontline aid workers and practitioners
- reflective guidance and spiritual wellbeing
- resilience building and compassionate care practices
Request Support
Counselling Fees
A reduced minimum fee applies to Therapeutic Counselling sessions
Counselling is structured as a block of three sessions.
Sessions are set at R300 each (R900 per block payment before the first session).
Additional Blocks: Open to further bookings as deemed necessary.
Please note: All treatment is confidential and not for forensic/legal purposes (move to intake form)
Intake & Assessment
A compassionate introductory session focused on understanding your experiences, needs and circumstances within a safe and confidential space.
Therapeutic Support
A guided counselling session focused on emotional support, therapeutic care and practical coping strategies tailored to your situation.
Sustainable Planning
A reflective session centred on wellbeing, and practical steps toward continued healing and stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here to guide you through the process
Who are the counselling services intended for?
Therapeutic Counselling services are provided for vulnerable adults, children, elders, and communities experiencing humanitarian crisis or hardship. Individuals are typically identified through humanitarian or community organisations that collaborate with Fountain for Humanity.
Is a specific religion, culture, or background required?
No. Therapeutic Counselling is available to individuals from all backgrounds, cultures, and belief systems. Services are delivered within a respectful and inclusive environment.
Is Online Therapeutic Counselling as effective as an in-person session?
Yes. Online Therapeutic Counselling is widely recognised as an effective method of delivering counselling. It allows individuals to participate in sessions from a familiar environment while maintaining privacy and continuity of care.
How and where are Therapeutic Counselling sessions conducted?
Online sessions are conducted via Zoom, and in-person sessions are available on a limited basis in Johannesburg. In-person session locations are arranged in advance with the NPOs.
Are counselling sessions confidential?
Yes. All Therapeutic Counselling sessions are conducted in accordance with strict confidentiality, professional ethics, and respect for personal privacy.
Are both individual and group counselling sessions available?
Yes. Therapeutic Counselling may be provided through individual or group sessions. The format depends on the circumstances of the individuals referred and the nature of the counselling programme.
Are counselling sessions free?
Therapeutic Counselling sessions are offered at a reduced minimum fee.
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