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Diya John
B.A. Psychology, M.S. Psychology
Diploma in Counselling - Australian Insititute of Professional Counsellors
Trained International Lifeline Support Worker
Practicing Member - Australian Counselling Association
I started Therapy Garden to make evidence-based counseling more accessible to expats, nomads and the international community. My interest in Mental Health stems from my personal experience caring for loved ones with mental illness, moving to a new country (Japan) in the midst of the pandemic, and navigating the demands of the corporate world for nearly 10 years.
I do individual counseling, iTherapy and group therapy, using evidence-based approaches based on my training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) from Beck Institute, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Solution-Focused Therapy, with a commitment to client-centered counseling. I am a trauma-informed therapist, trained in
Trauma-Focused ACT (TFACT), also incorporating somatic techniques when appropriate.
The issues I support clients with include:
- Anxiety, Depression & Stress Management
- Low Motivation, Loss of Meaning
- Coping with Life Changes
- Expat Transitions & Cultural Integration
- Loneliness
- Trauma, Grief & Loss
- Relationship Difficulties
I also work with organizational leaders looking to improve employee wellbeing--> View corporate consulting services
My Story
For nearly 10 years, I applied my background in Psychology to research in the corporate world. My role involved understanding people and culture around Asia Pacific including India, Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Australia & New Zealand.
When I moved to Japan, adjusting to a new environment came with several challenges. There was the additional strain of Covid-19 lockdowns and limited social interaction. There were many days when I felt incredibly anxious, and stuck.
At the same time, I knew I was very lucky to be in this country. The pandemic also helped me realize that life is short, and made me want to work through what was holding me back from living fully.
The best therapy sessions I attended during this time were those that were life changing. Those that gave me an evidence-based toolbox to cope with life's challenges, empowering me with a new way of looking at the world in general, and Japan in particular.
It wasn't easy to find these sorts of therapists, and they weren't usually accessible to English speakers in Japan.
I decided to supplement my Masters in Psychology with training and certification in counselling, and started Therapy Garden.
I believe that everyone in our diverse community is a hustler, and a survivor. Therapy Garden exists to help you bloom where you are planted.
Thank you for being a part of the journey!
6 Values That Shape My Therapeutic Approach
I blend (1) an insight-based approach, working with you to understand the "WHY" of your behaviour/ thoughts/ feelings, with
(2) an action-oriented approach, giving you the tools you need to address the "SO WHAT" and "NOW WHAT", guided by the following broader values:
Therapy for us as a community
1. Inclusive
Therapy Garden caters to the world's international community, including expats, repatriates (returnees) and globally minded people of diverse ethnicities. Within Japan, I know that there are many Japanese people who feel more comfortable with an English speaking therapist, and I welcome you.
2. Accessible
Sessions are conducted online over Zoom, making them possible for people anywhere in the world, including regions where face to face therapy in English may not be available.
No need to spend time or money traveling.
3. Community-Inspired
I believe in the power of our collective experience and the comfort that comes with knowing we are not alone. Therapy Garden's Instagram account shines a light on the remarkable experiences of the international/ expat community. Group therapy is also available.
Evidence-based, Focused on you
4. Evidence-based
Given that I have been a researcher for most of my life with a background in the science of Psychology, I am very particular about using tools & therapies that are backed by evidence. I focus on here-and-now therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Solution-Focused Therapy.
5. Client-centered
While there are lots of people out there giving advice, I believe you are the expert of your own life. At the same time, I don't "just listen". My role is to help you find your strengths, empowering you with information and tools to overcome your challenges.
6. Expertise-focused
We can't all know everything, and it's my responsibility to refer you to someone else in my network if your presenting problem is beyond my expertise.