Dr. Sofia Nakamura

Dr. Sofia Nakamura is a globally recognized psychologist and mental health advocate with over 18 years of experience in emotional wellbeing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and resilience training. She specializes in bridging clinical research with practical mental health strategies for diverse populations, supporting both youth and adults in achieving balanced emotional health.

Specialization

Emotional Wellbeing
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Mindfulness and Stress Reduction
Youth and Adolescent Mental Health
Cross-cultural Psychology

Education

2002–2006: BA in Psychology, University of Melbourne, Australia
2006–2008: MSc in Clinical Psychology, University of Tokyo, Japan
2008–2012: PhD in Emotional and Mental Wellbeing, University of Oxford, UK

Professional Experience

2012–2015: Clinical Psychologist, Tokyo Mental Health Center, Japan
2015–2019: Senior Lecturer in Psychology, University of Melbourne, Australia
2019–Present: Director of Mental Health Programs, Global Wellbeing Initiative, USA
Consultant for international NGOs on youth and adolescent mental health programs

Selected Scientific Publications

Nakamura, S. et al. (2021). "Mindfulness Interventions for Adolescent Emotional Regulation." Journal of Mental Health Research, 14(3), 112–130.
Nakamura, S. (2019). "Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Stress and Coping." International Review of Psychology, 21(2), 87–105.
Nakamura, S., & Williams, R. (2017). "Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Adaptations for Diverse Communities." Behavioral Health Journal, 10(1), 33–52.

Professional Memberships

American Psychological Association (APA)
British Psychological Society (BPS)
International Association for Cross-Cultural Psychology (IACCP)

Participation in International Projects

Lead Consultant, WHO "Global Youth Mental Health Initiative" (2020–2023)
Advisor, UNICEF "Resilience Programs for Adolescents" (2018–2021)
Project Director, UNESCO "Mindfulness and Mental Wellbeing Curriculum" (2022–Present)

Work on Educational Programs

Designer of "Emotional Resilience Curriculum" for high schools worldwide
Developer of online CBT modules for adolescents and adults
Trainer for educators and counselors on emotional and mental health best practices

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

Guest on NPR: “Mental Health Strategies for Teens and Young Adults”
TEDx Talk: “Building Emotional Resilience Across Cultures” (2021)
Frequent contributor to the “Mind Matters” podcast series

Unique Values and Experience

Dr. Nakamura combines a multicultural perspective with scientific rigor, emphasizing inclusive approaches to emotional wellbeing. Her experience in clinical practice, global program development, and media outreach ensures practical, evidence-based, and culturally sensitive guidance for all.