A Pause to Breathe Together

I often work with international couples (Japanese and non-Japanese partners), and sessions are available in both Japanese and English. I’m here to support couples in all kinds of relationships. If attending together feels difficult right now, starting with an individual session is perfectly fine.

Do any of these feel familiar?

・When we try to talk, it somehow turns into an argument.
・I don’t really understand what my partner is saying — or I feel misunderstood.
・We feel confused or stuck because of cultural or language differences.
・There is a gap in intimacy or emotional distance.
・We struggle with differences in lifestyle, values, or roles around housework and parenting.
・I don’t know whether we should stay together or separate.

I don’t consider couples counseling to be my “specialty.”
And yet, it is the area I receive the most requests for. Perhaps that shows how hard it can be to know where to turn when you want to talk about your relationship. Many of the couples who come to me aren’t just looking for solutions. What they often want most is a calm, safe space where they can truly hear each other again.

Creating a Safe Space to Pause and Reflect

Counseling is not about “fixing” your relationship or forcing reconciliation.
It’s about taking a moment to pause, understand what each of you is feeling, and reflect on what comes next.
Whether that means continuing your relationship or creating some distance, both choices are valid and meaningful.
You don’t have to go through this process alone — I’m here to support you along the way.

Flexible Approach to Sessions

Every couple and every individual is different.
That’s why we can tailor the session to fit your needs:
・Spending the entire session together as a couple
・Starting together, then having individual time in the middle, and returning together at the end
・Adjusting the balance of time depending on each situation
I always explain how we plan to use the time and make sure both partners are comfortable with the approach.  If you have young children or need to step away briefly, we can work around that — please don’t hesitate to let me know in advance.

Session Options and Privacy

Sessions can be held:
・In-person at my counseling room in Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka
・In-person at a rented private room
・At your home
・Online via LINE Meeting
All sessions are conducted in private, ensuring confidentiality.
You may also start with individual sessions and later move to couples sessions if that feels right for you.

Fees

・Couples Counseling (120 minutes): 16,500 yen
・Individual Counseling (90 minutes): 11,000 yen

About Me

I am currently single.  In my twenties, I experienced an international marriage and later a divorce.  I do not have children, and I do not currently have a partner.

Through these experiences, I’ve reflected on both the challenges of partnership and the freedom — and sometimes uncertainty — of being alone.  I also have close friends in same-sex partnerships.

In a time when relationships take many different forms, my goal is to provide a space where everyone feels safe and respected.  I won’t tell you what you “should” do.
Whether you come as a couple or as an individual, I first want to hear your voice and support you in exploring your path forward.

What This Counseling Does Not Cover

Even in couples counseling, I respect each person’s time and the confidentiality of what is shared.  Individual sessions are not intended for gathering information about your partner or for attempting to influence or control them, so requests for such purposes cannot be accommodated.
Please also note that I do not have legal authority. I cannot provide definitive legal advice or issue formal diagnoses. 
If needed, I can connect you with other professionals or services appropriate for your situation, and guide you toward the support you may require over time.

 

 

夫婦・カップル・パートナーシップのためのカウンセリング-Counseling for Couples and Partnerships-
English Counseling in Osaka - Noriko Murakami Profile (ENG.)
住吉大社 パワースポット 癒しの場所
Sumiyoshi Room – Easy Access & Neighborhood Area 近隣情報

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