Prospects for Certified Psychologists and Counselors in the Industrial Field in Japan: Literature Review and Interviews

Abstract

This paper aims to find clues for licensed psychologists, a profession with only a short history since a national qualification was introduced in Japan, to expand their careers and contribution in the industrial and labor fields. An overview of the history of mental health support in the industrial and labor fields, the principle figures involved from a psychological perspective and their activities are obtained by literature review. The background and issues in the industrial field, where stress is increasing with the changing times, are considered. Drawing on an interview with a therapist deeply involved in this field for a long time, the future prospects for licensed psychologists in the industrial and labor field are examined.