Mental Health Resources for Expats in Japan

A Comprehensive Guide to Counseling, Therapy, and Emotional Support

Living abroad can be an exciting and life-changing experience, but it also comes with unique emotional challenges. Whether you’re adjusting to Japanese culture, feeling isolated from your home country, struggling with a language barrier, or dealing with work stress, mental health support is essential. Unfortunately, finding help in a foreign language and system can feel overwhelming.

In this guide, we provide a comprehensive overview of mental health resources for expats in Japan—from English-speaking therapists and clinics to online support services, emergency contacts, and culturally sensitive advice.

1. Understanding Mental Health in Japan

Cultural Context

Japan has a traditionally reserved approach to mental health. Emotional issues are often viewed as private, and there is still some social stigma attached to seeking therapy or psychiatric help. This may affect how services are offered or discussed.

However, awareness is growing—especially in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka. More clinics are now offering counseling, therapy, and medication services with English-speaking professionals.

2. Common Mental Health Challenges for Expats

Expats in Japan may face:

• Culture shock and adaptation fatigue

• Language barrier stress

• Workplace pressure (especially in Japanese companies)

• Isolation or loneliness

• Relationship or family stress

• Identity crisis or loss of confidence

• Depression or anxiety

• Burnout from study or caregiving

These are normal responses to major life changes, and you’re not alone.

3. Types of Mental Health Services Available

4. English-Speaking Clinics and Therapists in Japan

1. Tokyo Mental Health

• Locations: Shintomi, Omotesando, and Okinawa

• Services: Counseling, psychiatry, couples therapy

• Website: www.tokyomentalhealth.com

• Notes: Team includes licensed foreign and Japanese therapists. Offers both in-person and telehealth.

2. TELL (Tokyo English Lifeline)

• Services: Crisis hotline, counseling, workshops

• Website: www.telljp.com

• Hotline: 03-5774-0992 (available 9am–11pm daily)

• Notes: Trusted non-profit. Also offers suicide prevention and support for youth, LGBTQ+, and domestic abuse survivors.

3. International Mental Health Professionals Japan (IMHPJ)

• Directory of licensed foreign and bilingual therapists across Japan

• Website: www.imhpj.org

• Notes: Great for finding therapists by location and specialty

4. Tokyo Counseling Services

• Location: Sangenjaya, Setagaya

• Services: Individual, family, couples therapy

• Website: www.tokyocounseling.com

• Notes: One of the longest-established English-speaking therapy centers in Japan

5. Roppongi Mental Clinic

• Location: Roppongi, Minato

• Services: Psychiatry and medication in English

• Website: www.roppongimental.com

• Notes: English-speaking psychiatrist available, appointment required

5. Online Therapy Options

If in-person visits are not possible or preferred, try these platforms:

1. BetterHelp

• Website: www.betterhelp.com

• Features: Match with an English-speaking therapist globally

• Availability: 24/7 access to licensed professionals

2. Talkspace

• Website: www.talkspace.com

• Features: Text, audio, and video therapy

• Works well for expats with irregular schedules

3. TELL Counseling (Online Services)

• Offers video counseling with Tokyo-based therapists

• Great hybrid of global platform + Japan-specific support

6. Free and Low-Cost Mental Health Support

1. TELL Lifeline (Free)

• 03-5774-0992 (English, 9am–11pm daily)

• Chat: Available online at telljp.com

2. Tokyo Mental Health Online Support

• Offers reduced rates for students and low-income clients

3. NPOs and NGOs

• Many nonprofits in Japan offer mental health support, especially for women, students, and minorities

4. University Counseling Centers

• Many universities provide free mental health counseling for enrolled international students

7. Emergency and Crisis Support

1. Emergency Number

• Dial 119 for ambulance/emergency (some operators speak English)

2. Mental Health Crisis Lines

• TELL Lifeline (see above)

• Tokyo Suicide Prevention Center: 03-5286-9090 (Japanese only)

• Tokyo Metropolitan Mental Health and Welfare Center: 03-3844-2212 (some English support)

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, do not hesitate to call 119.

8. Support Groups for Expats

Peer support can be incredibly powerful. Look into:

• TELL Peer Support Groups (grief, parenting, LGBTQ+, recovery)

• Meetup.com: Search for “mental health” or “expat support” groups in your area

• Facebook groups: “Foreign Women in Japan”, “Tokyo Expats Mental Wellness”, etc.

Sometimes just knowing you’re not alone makes all the difference.

9. Mental Health Insurance Coverage in Japan

Most Japanese public health insurance plans cover:

• Initial psychiatric consultations

• Prescribed medication

• Basic mental health follow-up appointments

However:

• Talk therapy (counseling) is often not covered

• Private clinics may charge ¥10,000–¥20,000 per session

• Always ask about fees and insurance compatibility up front

10. Mental Health for Specific Groups

Students

• Adjusting to academics, language, and cultural stress

• Most universities offer English counseling for free

Working Professionals

• Stress from Japanese work culture, burnout

• Consider EAP (Employee Assistance Programs) if employed at a multinational

Parents & Spouses

• Isolation from parenting without local support

• Marriage and cross-cultural communication challenges

LGBTQ+ Community

• Limited local resources, but growing

• TELL and Tokyo Rainbow Pride offer support networks

11. What to Expect in a Therapy Session

First sessions often include:

• Basic intake (history, symptoms, goals)

• Language preferences

• Scheduling and consent paperwork

Expect a safe and judgment-free space. It’s okay to try different therapists until you find a good fit.

12. How to Choose the Right Therapist

When choosing a therapist:

• Check credentials and license

• Ask about experience with expat issues

• Find out if they speak native or fluent English

• Understand their specialties (e.g. trauma, family, anxiety)

Trust your gut—therapeutic rapport is key.

13. Tips for Managing Mental Health on Your Own

While professional help is important, daily care also makes a big difference:

• Practice journaling or mindfulness

• Exercise regularly

• Get sunlight and sleep

• Stay connected—call home often

• Join communities or interest groups

• Don’t be afraid to rest

14. Japanese Words You Might Encounter

15. Final Thoughts

Taking care of your mental health is not a weakness—it’s a wise and powerful act of self-preservation. Living in Japan brings both joy and complexity, and it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed at times.

The good news is: You are not alone, and support is available.

Whether you need a therapist, a listening ear, or just some guidance—Japan has growing mental health resources for its expat community. Reach out, ask questions, and prioritize your well-being. You deserve it.