Feminist psychotherapy with japanese women

Abstract

Abstract It has been ten years since first feminist therapy practice took place in Japan. Under circumstances in which there is still great lack of acceptance and understanding of psychotherapy in general, the need for feminist therapy is increasing today. After the revision of laws and institutions has succeeded, we Japanese women need to face a reality in which we learn how to build a flexible strength to negotiate with our environment. It is not easy to grasp a suitable identity avoiding the so-called super woman image. This paper illustrates the activities of Feminist Therapy at “Nakama” (means companion) and some issues regarding feminist therapy that need be discussed. One case is also discussed from a feminist perspective. Although not being presented, in this paper, the issue of sexual violence against women and need for care of the victims is an initiative that needs to be taken by feminist therapist.