Hello Reader!
Welcome back to the Koi Wellness newsletter! Thanks for your support and for watching and listening to my interview with Lance E. Lee on his podcast. Today, I’m excited to share highlights from a special moment back in 2020 when I was featured on the Tokyo Alumni podcast.
Revisiting My Journey into Occupational Therapy
My journey into occupational therapy began with a pivotal conversation in 2007 with a high school counselor at the American School in Japan (ASIJ). This set me on a path that led me to Quinnipiac University, where I earned a Bachelor's in Health Science in 2012 and a Master's in Occupational Therapy in 2014. I started my career in Boston, working with at-risk adolescents at a non-profit organization, and traveled across New England, gaining valuable experience before returning to Tokyo in 2018 to start my own practice.
During the podcast, I shared insights into my daily responsibilities as an occupational therapist. My work involves helping individuals achieve independence in their daily lives through therapeutic techniques and interventions. Parents often bring their children to me for a variety of reasons, including developmental delays, sensory processing issues, and difficulties with fine and gross motor skills. I always emphasize a holistic approach, considering the child's environment and emotional well-being alongside their physical needs.
Addressing Challenges for Mixed-Cultural Students
We also discussed the unique challenges faced by students of mixed heritage, including those with American and Japanese backgrounds. These children often navigate complex cultural landscapes, balancing the expectations and norms of both societies. Having been an international student myself, I understand these challenges deeply. Highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity and the need for tailored support systems to help these students thrive, whether they are in the United States or Japan, remains a core focus of my work.
The Importance of Connecting to Your Breath
Yoga is a cornerstone of my practice, offering a holistic approach to therapy. I often provide practical advice on breathing techniques and yoga because therapy should go beyond addressing “shortcomings.” I stress the importance of "connecting to your breath," a practice that can help manage stress and improve overall well-being. My expertise in yoga and meditation compliments my work as an OT, providing my clients with holistic strategies to support their physical and emotional health.
Recent Developments: Life Changes
Since the 2020 podcast, my life has changed significantly. If you’ve tuned in to my recent conversation on the Lance E. Lee Podcast in Tokyo, you know that I recently got married, adding a new dimension to my personal and professional life. Over the past decade, I’ve seen tremendous growth in my practice and the Koi Wellness family. My dedication to my clients and commitment to empowering them remain at the heart of my work.
Upcoming Courses:
I'm excited to announce that I will be teaching two courses in Japanese this fall:
- Introductory to DIR: Saturdays, September 7 & 14, 2024. Register here.
- DIR 201 Course: Promoting Basic Functional Emotional Developmental Capacities: October 1 - January 7, 2025. Register here.
These courses are designed to provide in-depth knowledge and practical strategies for supporting children's development, grounded in the DIR model.
Special Broadcast 🗣️: I'll be away from August 23rd to September 5th, but our newsletters will still reach you!
A Quick Question for You!
The response to my previous newsletter featuring the LEL podcast was overwhelmingly positive. If you'd like to see more podcasts or videos, or if you have specific topics you'd like us to cover on the blog or in the newsletter, please reach out. Your feedback helps us tailor our resources to meet your needs and interests.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. Be sure to check out the full blog post for more in-depth discussions and stay tuned for more exciting content from Koi Wellness.
Want more tips? Schedule a call or connect with me on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. Don't forget to share this article with fellow parents—it's all about empowering each other!
Warmly,
Aya Porté
Occupational Therapist & Founder, Koi Wellness
