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Picture of Diya John, therapist in Tokyo Japan.
Picture of Diya John, therapist in Tokyo Japan.
Picture of Diya John, therapist in Tokyo Japan.

About Me

BA Psychology, MS Psychology 

Diploma in Counselling - Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors

Trained International Lifeline Support Worker

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.​

 

In my individual sessions and online community courses, I use evidence-based approaches, blending 1) those that are rooted in attachment science like Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), helping you understand the ‘WHY’ and 2) those that help you take real steps towards your idea of a meaningful life—the ‘SO WHAT’ and ‘NOW WHAT’—like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I am also trained in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) from Beck Institute and have a commitment to client-centered counseling.

 

I am a trauma-informed therapist, trained in Trauma-Focused ACT (TFACT), also incorporating somatic techniques when appropriate. I use my training in ACT for ADHD to work with people who see themselves as neurodivergent, NOT treating ADHD as a disorder but rather as a difference that can be approached compassionately.

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

A flower in nature.

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!
 

Written signature of Diya John,  therapist in Tokyo Japan.
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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.

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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.

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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. 

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Community-Inspired

​I believe in the power of our collective experience and the comfort that comes with knowing we are not alone. Our Instagram shines a light on the remarkable experiences of the international community. Group therapy is also available.

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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 like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Solution-Focused Therapy.

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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.

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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.

Client Testimonials

"​I've had the privilege of being under Diya's guidance, and it's been a transformative experience. Her approach has significantly helped me in recognizing and understanding my emotions, playing a vital role in healing my past wounds."

— German Expat

Client Testimonials

"​While my initial goal was to salvage the marriage and stop being depressed, Diya helped me see a bigger picture. Thanks to Diya's guidance, I'm in a much better place mentally. I'm ready to move forward, leave the past behind, and embrace a new chapter."

— British Expat

Client Testimonials

"​Even after just 2 group therapy sessions, I have felt that the insights have had a profound effect on me. I find myself trying be more of a witness to my feelings, and have become more aware of when I am trying to dissociate or push something away."

— Indian American Expat

Client Testimonials

"I have really enjoyed and definitely benefited from my sessions with Diya. I have had a difficult transition moving to Japan and finding my personal values in a new country with a completely different culture than America."

— American Expat

Client Testimonials

"My experience with Diya was incredibly helpful. She was very easy to talk to and very professional. Initially I was feeling very stuck as an expat. I was able to gain a lot of insight on my personal and expat journey."

— South African Expat

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Let's Work Together

Thanks for your interest in Therapy Garden. Feel free to contact us on InstagramLinkedIn, email, or via the form below.

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"To heal, you have to get to the root of the wound and kiss it all the way up."— Rupi Kaur

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