A History of PCA in Japan-Through our experiences- Kazuo Yamashita, Yuko Hogen

PCA was introduced to Japan in the 1960s. Carl Rogers held workshops. Afterward, workshops were held in various locations by people with deep interest. In the 1970s, they were held with great enthusiasm, truly a grassroots development. That enthusiastic atmosphere remains vivid in my memory. It focuses on equal relationships and freedom between people. The confusion, open exchanges, and deep connections between people. Besides it was discovered that PCA had an affinity with Eastern thought. After that as the other approaches have been introduced to Japan, situation much changed.  (Kazuo Yamashita)

　My first experience of Encounter Group（EG） as a university student was formative. Members spoke openly, and I had a vivid sense of being deeply understood. Since then, I have continued to engage in EG and now serve on the staff of “Ningenkankeikenkyukai”, organize and facilitate various EG. In this presentation, I will briefly outline the history and current activities of this group.　

In contemporary Japanese clinical practice is emphasis on immediately applicable techniques. However, I argue for integrating PCA perspective into basic training and education. （Yuko Hogen）

Yuko Hogen: Clinical Psychologist, Staff Member of ‘’Ningenkankeikenkyukai”

Kazuo Yamashita: counselor