Psychologists’ Union Established in the Histadrut: “Professional and authentic representation from the field”

Last week members of the Histadrut’s House of Representatives (Binah), led by its chairman Shlomo Avitan, unanimously approved the establishment of the Psychologists' Union within the Histadrut. The move comes against the backdrop of a sharp increase in demand for mental health services since October 7. Dr. Yuval Hirsch, who previously served as head of the psychologists' division within the Histadrut’s Union of Graduates in the Social Sciences and Humanities, is expected to lead the union.

Histadrut Chairman, Arnon Bar-David, applauded the decision: "This is an important day of celebration for the psychology profession and for the public service system in Israel. Psychologists play a critical role in our social resilience, and they deserve professional and authentic representation that comes from the field and works for them. In recent years, we have all seen the burden and mental damage that Israeli citizens are facing, and the demand for therapy will only increase. The establishment of the union is a crucial step that will strengthen the profession and public service. I wish Dr. Yuval Hirsh great success in leading the new union, and we will stand by him and provide all the support needed to advance the field and ensure fair and high-quality working conditions for those in the profession."

The vot in the Histadrut House of Representatives on the establishment of the Psychologists' Union (Photo: Yasmin Gil, Histadrut Spokesperson)

Incoming Chairman of the Psychologists’ Union, Dr. Yuval Hirsh, also noted the gravitas of the Union’s establishment: "This is a significant moment for the psychologist community in Israel. At a time when Israeli society is dealing with widespread mental distress, the professionals on the front lines of treatment need strong, organized, and professional support. Establishing the Union within the Histadrut will allow us to work towards fair working conditions, advanced training, and improving services for the public. I thank Histadrut Chairman Arnon Bar-David for the trust and support, and I pledge to lead the Union responsibly, in partnership, and with a deep commitment to psychologists and the mental health of Israel’s citizens.”