Dr. Yumi Nakao is a Japanese psychiatrist (M.D.) who has spent several years living in English-speaking countries, including the United States.
Through these experiences, she has developed a multicultural perspective and a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by those living in culturally homogeneous societies like Japan.

Dr. Nakao also conducts evaluations for U.S. veterans seeking compensation and pension for PTSD, mental disorders and traumatic brain injury, which has deepened her understanding of symptoms related to adjustment difficulties in new environments as well as PTSD.

 In Japan, it is possible to see a psychiatrist in English and receive prescriptions, especially in large cities such as Tokyo. However, in rural areas, access to English-speaking psychiatric care is still quite limited.

 Since 2018, I have treated many English-speaking patients who traveled long distances to visit my traditional in-person clinic. 

Since psychiatric medications in Japan are not allowed to be refilled, Dr. Nakao always felt sorry that her patients had to spend so much time just to come for follow-up visits, and those who had to given up psychiatric treatment due to distance. 

To make care more accessible and convenient for them, she decided to open an online psychiatric clinic. 

Dr. Nakao prefers to minimize the use of potentially addictive medications whenever possible. 

Instead, she offers alternative options such as traditional Chinese herbs and is knowledgeable in guiding patients through safe tapering processes when discontinuing such medications. 

One of Dr. Nakao’s specialties is benzodiazepine tapering. However, due to regulations, benzodiazepines cannot be prescribed via online consultations. Therefore, patients wishing to taper their medication will be provided with advice only.

Education and Professional Certifications: Board certified psychiatrist Designated Psychiatrist under the Mental Health and Welfare Act Certified Occupational Health Physician B.A. in English Language and Literature, School of Education, Waseda University M.D., University of Miyazaki, School of Medicine

Psychiatrist/Psychosomatic doctor, Hyogo Prefectural Mental Health Center, Ainohanazono Hospital, Yumi Mental Health Clinic(in-person), and Veteran’s evaluation services.