Course Description

Japanese psychotherapies offer a unique perspective on mental health, emphasizing resilience and harmony within individuals. Rooted in cultural traditions, these therapies, such as Morita therapy and Naikan therapy, focus on acceptance and self-reflection, allowing individuals to navigate emotional struggles effectively. 

Morita therapy, developed by Shoma Morita, encourages patients to accept their feelings without judgment and to engage in meaningful activities, fostering a sense of purpose amidst adversity. On the other hand, Naikan therapy emphasizes introspection, prompting individuals to reflect on their relationships and the impact of their actions on others. This process cultivates gratitude and a deeper understanding of one’s place in the world. 

This course provides an introduction to these Japanese therapies, with an emphasis on how to begin incorporating some of their principles and interventions into clinical work. This will be an experiential training, so please have a notebook or journal on hand.

Course Objectives 

Describe the difference between various types of Japanese psychotherapies

Explain the benefits of Morita and Naikan therapies

Use principles of Japanese psychotherapies in clinical work