Moving to or living in Tokyo can be an amazing adventure; neon lights, cozy cafés, endless convenience. But let’s be honest: it can also feel overwhelming, lonely, or even isolating, especially if you’re far from your usual support systems. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, culture shock, burnout, or something deeper, know this: you’re not alone, and there is support out there!
This guide gives you real, helpful options to find mental health services in Tokyo, including English-speaking therapists, crisis lines, and affordable or free support.
TELL Logo – Photo By: https://telljp.com/
Tokyo English Lifeline (TELL)
Best for: Immediate support, ongoing therapy, and community resources
Languages: English
TELL has been supporting the international community in Japan since the 1970s. They offer a free, anonymous Lifeline you can call or chat with 365 days a year. It’s staffed by trained volunteers and mental health professionals, perfect if you need someone to talk to right away.
They also provide counseling services (online or in-person) with licensed therapists from different backgrounds. Fees depend on the counselor and insurance, but some support is available if cost is a concern.
Hotline: 0800-300-8355
Website: https://telljp.com/
Photo By: Tokyo Mental Health
Tokyo Mental Health
Best for: Therapy with licensed English-speaking psychologists or psychiatrists
Languages: English, Japanese, and more
Tokyo Mental Health offers a wide range of services: individual therapy, couples counseling, psychiatric evaluations, and more. Their therapists are internationally trained, and they have experience working with expats and intercultural issues.
They also provide telehealth sessions, so you don’t need to be physically in Tokyo to access support. Prices can be high, but many international health insurance plans are accepted.
Address: https://share.google/CMhaRGqlWzUysYeZk
Website: https://www.tokyomentalhealth.com/
Photo By: The Roppongi Clinic
The Roppongi Clinic
Best for: Psychiatry and psychological therapy in central Tokyo
Languages: English, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish
Located in the heart of Roppongi, this clinic specializes in mental health evaluations, psychiatric medication, and counseling. It’s a private practice, so services are prompt, confidential, and well-suited for international residents. The clinic’s team includes bilingual professionals trained in both Japanese and Western approaches to care.
Address: https://share.google/flChyavBvticQYdR4
Website: https://www.roppongi-clinic.jp/english-page/
Photo By: American Clinic Tokyo
American Clinic Tokyo
Best for: General and mental health consultations with U.S.-trained staff
Languages: English (primary), Japanese
Though it’s a general medical practice, American Clinic Tokyo offers mental health services including anxiety and depression treatment, medication management, and referral to specialists. It’s staffed by English-speaking physicians and caters mostly to expats and international travelers.
Address: https://share.google/vF6p6qII88Iuys8e3
Website: https://www.americanclinictokyo.com/
Hotline: +81-3-6441-0969
Photo By: Inochi no Denwa (いのちの電話)
Inochi no Denwa (いのちの電話)
Best for: Crisis support in Japanese
Languages: Japanese only
Inochi no Denwa is a long-running, nationwide mental health and suicide prevention hotline in Japan. It’s staffed by trained volunteers and offers confidential support to anyone in emotional distress. However, the service is entirely in Japanese, and there is no English-language option. If you’re fluent or semi-fluent in Japanese, it can be a very supportive resource.
Hotline: 0570-783-556 (10:00–22:00 daily)
Website (Japanese Only): https://www.inochinodenwa.org/
Photo By: Yorisoi Hotline (よりそいホットライン)
Yorisoi Hotline (よりそいホットライン)
Best for: Multilingual mental health support, especially for foreign residents
Languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean, and more
The Yorisoi Hotline is a free and confidential service that provides emotional support and practical help for those facing distress, abuse, or life difficulties in Japan. Unlike most other services, they offer support in multiple languages, making them ideal for international residents.
Their operators can connect callers to interpreters when necessary, though wait times may vary slightly depending on the language.
When calling, press “2” for foreign language support, then follow the voice guidance to select your preferred language.
Hotline: 0120-279-338 (10:00–22:00 daily)
Website: https://www.since2011.net/yorisoi/
A Couple Reaching for Each Other’s Hands – Photo By: Muhammad Rayhan Haripriatna
International Community Centers & University Counseling
Best for: Localized, sometimes free support for students and residents
If you’re a student in Tokyo, check with your university. Many campuses offer free counseling services in English and Japanese. These include Waseda University, Sophia University, and Temple University Japan Campus, among others.
The Tokyo International Communication Committee (TICC) or your local ward office can also point you to support services tailored for foreigners, including bilingual therapists, group sessions, or referrals.
More than Just Coping, You Deserve to Feel Okay
Mental health isn’t just for when things fall apart; it’s also about building tools to thrive, not just survive. In a fast-paced city like Tokyo, that matters more than ever. Whether you’re here for work, study, or just passing through, know that taking care of your mental well-being is valid, brave, and very possible.
You don’t need to speak perfect Japanese. You don’t need to have it “bad enough.” You just need to know that help is there, and you’re absolutely allowed to take it.
Featured Photo Credit: Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
If you need to relax and practice mindfulness, why not reach out to our Travel Experts to arrange a Zen Meditation Experience or Retreat?
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