Translation guide
In Japanese, the term for a psychotherapist depends on context, qualifications, and setting. The most common and general term is 心理カウンセラー, but clinical psychologists and medical doctors use distinct titles. This guide covers the main ways to refer to a psychotherapist in Japanese, from everyday usage to professional contexts.
Referring to a professional who provides talk therapy or counseling, without specifying medical or clinical qualifications.
The most common and widely understood term for a psychotherapist or psychological counselor in Japan. It is used in private practice, clinics, and schools.
彼女は心理カウンセラーとして働いています。
She works as a psychotherapist.
A broader term for counselor, often used in everyday conversation. It can refer to various types of counselors, but in context it may imply a psychotherapist.
カウンセラーに相談してみたらどうですか。
Why don't you talk to a counselor?
A loanword from English, often used for therapists in general, including physical therapists. In mental health contexts, it can mean psychotherapist, but it's less specific than 心理カウンセラー.
セラピストとのセッションを予約しました。
I booked a session with a therapist.
Referring to a psychotherapist with formal clinical psychology qualifications, often working in medical or institutional settings.
A nationally certified clinical psychologist in Japan. This is a protected title requiring a master's degree and clinical training. They often work in hospitals, schools, and counseling centers.
臨床心理士の資格を取得しました。
I obtained a clinical psychologist license.
A newer national qualification for psychologists in Japan, established in 2017. It covers a broader range of psychological services, including psychotherapy, assessment, and consultation.
公認心理師として病院で勤務しています。
I work at a hospital as a certified psychologist.
Referring to a medical doctor who specializes in mental health and can prescribe medication. In English, this is distinct from a psychotherapist, but in Japanese the terms are sometimes confused by learners.
A psychiatrist, a medical doctor specializing in mental disorders. They can prescribe medication and may also provide psychotherapy. Not a direct equivalent of 'psychotherapist', but often encountered in similar contexts.
精神科医に診てもらうことをお勧めします。
I recommend seeing a psychiatrist.
A doctor specializing in psychosomatic medicine. They treat stress-related physical symptoms and often provide counseling. Sometimes confused with psychotherapists.
心療内科医に相談しました。
I consulted a psychosomatic medicine doctor.
The direct translation '心理療法士' (shinri ryōhōshi) is rarely used in Japanese and may sound unnatural. Stick to the terms above depending on context.
In English, 'psychotherapist' usually refers to a non-medical professional providing talk therapy, while 'psychiatrist' is a medical doctor. In Japanese, 臨床心理士 and 公認心理師 are non-medical psychotherapists, while 精神科医 is a psychiatrist. Be careful not to confuse them.