Dr. Sofia Nakamura-Williams, PhD

Dr. Sofia Nakamura-Williams is a globally recognized specialist in body image, self-care, and holistic wellness, with over 12 years of experience integrating psychology, nutrition, and mental health education. She is dedicated to promoting positive self-image, mental resilience, and healthy lifestyle habits for diverse populations, emphasizing evidence-based strategies and inclusive practices.

Specialization

Body Image and Self-Esteem Development
Mental Health and Mindfulness
Holistic Wellness Strategies
Adolescent and Young Adult Counseling
Nutrition Psychology

Education

2006–2010: BSc in Psychology, University of Melbourne, Australia
2010–2012: MSc in Health Psychology, University College London, UK
2012–2016: PhD in Body Image and Mental Health, Kyoto University, Japan

Professional Experience

2016–2018: Clinical Psychologist, Mind & Body Wellness Clinic, Tokyo, Japan
2018–2022: Senior Research Fellow in Body Image Studies, University of California, Los Angeles
2022–Present: Director of Holistic Wellness Programs, Global SelfCare Initiative
Consultant for NGOs and schools on adolescent mental health and self-care programs

Selected Scientific Publications

Nakamura-Williams, S. et al. (2021). "Promoting Positive Body Image Through Mindfulness Practices." Journal of Health Psychology, 26(9), 1120–1138.
Nakamura-Williams, S. (2019). "Self-Care Interventions for Adolescents: A Meta-Analysis." International Journal of Mental Health, 48(3), 214–230.
Nakamura-Williams, S., & Patel, R. (2017). "Holistic Approaches to Mental Wellbeing in Youth." Journal of Adolescent Health, 60(2), 145–158.

Professional Memberships

American Psychological Association (APA)
International Association for Body Image Research (IABIR)
European Health Psychology Society (EHPS)

Participation in International Projects

Lead Consultant, WHO Global Mental Health and Self-Care Program (2020–2023)
Advisor, UNICEF “Adolescent Wellbeing & Positive Body Image” (2018–2021)
Project Director, UNESCO Digital Self-Care Toolkit for Schools (2022–Present)

Work on Educational Programs

Developer of “Mindful Self-Care Curriculum” for high schools in the USA, Japan, and Australia
Creator of online wellness and body image courses for teens and young adults
Training programs for educators and therapists on holistic mental health and self-care strategies

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

Guest speaker on NPR: “Self-Care and Body Positivity for Teens”
TEDx Talk: “Rethinking Self-Care: Mind, Body, and Mental Health” (2020)
Regular contributor to “Wellness Matters” podcast

Unique Values and Experience

Dr. Nakamura-Williams combines multicultural insights with scientific rigor, emphasizing inclusive, culturally sensitive approaches to body image and self-care. Her experience across Asia, Europe, North America, and Australia allows her to craft interventions and educational programs that resonate globally.