Clinical Psychology: MA, Japan

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The Clinical Psychology MA program in Japan is a three year program that is taught entirely in the Japanese language and is designed to develop culturally competent practitioners who will work in Japan. The program curriculum integrates US models of psychological theory and practice with modifications that are culturally appropriate for populations in Japan. Students benefit from the expertise of both US and Japanese faculty. The program includes field placement experiences throughout Japan with concurrent supervision and intervention courses as well as a master’s project that is clinically based.

Program Outcomes

The goal of the Clinical Psychology Master of Arts program in Japan is to develop master’s-level practitioners who are capable of applying psychological knowledge to their work in a wide variety of settings serving children and families in Japan. These settings may include private practice, mental health clinics, community mental health centers, inpatient mental health facilities, medical settings, educational settings, and workplace settings, among others. We aim to train students who have successful psychotherapeutic intervention skills with a special focus on children and their families; who are able to conduct appropriate and accurate assessments; and who are able to integrate and adapt western psychological interventions to appropriate Japanese cultural contexts.

Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate sufficient knowledge of major theoretical approaches for evidence-based psychological intervention.
Recognize and utilize the appropriate sources of information necessary for evidence-based psychological intervention.
Formulate a case and devise integrated treatment plans that include a diagnostic formulation and specific intervention techniques.
Demonstrate skills in ethical reasoning, and follow professional ethical standards when providing psychological services.
Demonstrate professional attitude pertaining to professional ethics, self-awareness, openness, and responsiveness to critical feedback.
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of multicultural/diversity implications in developing a case formulation and appropriate intervention plans.

Specialized Admissions Requirements

This program is an innovative training program that uses traditional face-to-face teaching methods, as well as online educational approaches, and, with a few exceptions, is taught primarily in Japanese. Admission requirements are written and oral fluency in Japanese; possession of a bachelor’s degree; written recommendations; a personal essay; a brief essay on topics chosen by the program; and an interview with the admissions committee. Classes are provided in Tokyo, in the U.S., and online by psychological professionals from both Japan and the United States.

Curriculum and Degree Requirements

This 3-year program requires 48 semester credit units, which includes practicum experience as well as completion of a master’s thesis. The program grants a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology. Curriculum requirements are subject to change. More information about specific course requirements can be obtained by visiting the Japan program website at http://www.csppjapan.com/

Curriculum Plan

Credential Requirements

Students who complete this program are qualified to offer clinical psychology services in Japan to Japanese speaking clients. Japan does not currently require licensure or registration for clinical psychologists.

Clinical MA Program Faculty: Japan

Akira Enatsu, MA

Mikang Hong, PsyD

Miwako Y. McDonough Ishii, MS, Assistant Program Director

Keiko Ito, PhD

Angelica Junko Motoki, PhD

Yoshiyuki Kogo, MA

Takashi Kubo, MA

Riichiro Miwa, PsyD

Teri Nakamoto, PsyD

Tomoe Naoi, PsyD

Kazumi Nishio, PhD

Nahoko Nishizawa, PsyD, Online Program Coordinator

Satoru Saito, MD

Kay Yoko Tanaka, PhD, Program Director

Akiko Yagi, MSSW