Struggling with your Mental Health? Here are 5 English-Friendly Psychiatric Clinics in Tokyo
Moving from your home country to another can feel like being uprooted from the ground you have spent years growing and thriving in. Adjusting to a different language, culture and set of laws can quietly wear on your mental health. Japan’s colorful, fun and sometimes overstimulating scenery can make it harder to admit the struggles underneath.
Mental health troubles are not a niche concern, even in Japan. The World Health Organization estimated in 2021 that one in seven people are living with a mental disorder, with depression and anxiety among the most common. Seeking mental health support can feel hard. It can even feel harder for foreigners in Japan. In fact, a 2020 study showed that foreign residents in Japan are less likely to access mental health services in the country, often held back by language barriers and lack of social networks.
We have compiled a list of five English-friendly psychiatric clinics in Tokyo that can understand your troubles and explain your diagnosis clearly.
However, if you are in crisis or having thoughts of self-harm, please contact TELL Lifeline (0800-300-8355) rather than waiting for a scheduled appointment.
Roppongi Clinic (Minato Ward)
In addition to general psychiatry, this clinic specializes in ADHD assessment and offers various forms of therapy, including movement therapy. Same-day appointments may also be available, depending on the day.
Cost: ¥3,500 to ¥6,700 for initial consultation. ADHD tests, however, are a separate cost and are not covered by insurance.
Yotsuya Yui Clinic (Shinjuku Ward)
Offers psychiatric consultation, psychological counseling and testing in several languages including English, Spanish, Portuguese and Korean.
Cost: ¥2,500 to ¥3,000 for initial consultation.
Mejiro Sola Clinic (Shinjuku Ward)
This clinic offers psychiatry and psychosomatic medicine, with consultations available in English, German and French.
Cost: ¥3,500 for initial consultation.
Kitasando Mental Health Clinic (Shibuya Ward)
Offers general psychiatry and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
Cost: ¥3,000 for initial consultation.
Kokoro Terrace Park Side Clinic (Suginami Ward)
This clinic offers general psychiatry and online follow-up consultations.
Cost: ¥5,000 for initial visit. This clinic only accepts cashless payments through credit cards and prepaid IC cards.
The fees above are the cost under Japan’s National Health Insurance, which residents — including foreigners staying more than three months — are required to enroll in through their local ward office. Some clinics may also accept private insurance, so confirm directly with the clinic. Paying out of pocket is also an option, though costs will likely be 70% higher than listed in this article.
FAQs
Can I bring my medication to Japan?
Yes, but the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare only allows you to bring one month of prescription medicine into Japan. If you intend to bring more than this amount, you need to apply for an import confirmation. Additionally, bringing certain prescription medication such as Adderall is prohibited, even when prescribed. More information is on the MHLW website.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist in Tokyo?
No, though booking an appointment through the clinic’s website or calling ahead is standard practice at the clinics listed above.
I have a medical certificate from my home country, can I just ask for a new prescription?
No. Under Japanese law, you must undergo a formal medical evaluation with a licensed psychiatrist to obtain a new prescription. You may bring a medical certificate from your home country to present during your consultation, but it does not guarantee that the same medication will be prescribed.
I have a prescription from my home country, can I use it at a Japanese pharmacy?
No. You must visit a licensed Japanese doctor, who will give you an assessment and a new prescription for you to buy medicine in Japan.
Disclaimer:
This article is intended as a general orientation guide, not medical advice, ranking or endorsement. Clinic offerings, English-language availability, insurance offerings and clinic schedules can change. Always confirm the current details with the clinic and consider your situation before booking your appointment or deciding where to seek care.
