Flashback to 2020: Podcast Highlights, OT Insights, and Cross-Cultural Support
Welcome back to the Koi Wellness blog, your trusted resource for child development and empowerment. I'm Aya Porté, your occupational therapist (OT) who is passionate about nurturing children's potential and supporting cross-cultural families.
In a previous article, I discussed my decade-long experience as an occupational therapist with Lance E. Lee on his podcast, this interview prompted me to look back at one of my first podcast appearances. In 2020, I had the pleasure of being featured on Tokyo Alumni Podcast, and as I revisited the highlights of that conversation, it’s clear that many of the insights we discussed remain just as relevant today.
Over the past four years, I’ve continued my work as a bilingual OT, serving cross-cultural and multicultural communities in Tokyo and beyond. The need for heart-centered care has only grown in recent years. Our communities need care from those who have lived through similar experiences and can be empathetic without pity, focusing on empowerment and building capacity for growth.
My Journey into Occupational Therapy
My path into occupational therapy began back in 2007, sparked by a pivotal conversation with a high school counselor at the American School in Japan (ASIJ). This encounter set me on a journey 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. My career started in Boston, working with at-risk adolescents at a non-profit organization. From there, I traveled across New England, gaining experience in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools before returning to Tokyo in 2018 to start my own practice.
During the podcast, I explained to Nick what the day-to-day responsibilities of an occupational therapist looked like for most. 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.
Challenges for Mixed-Cultural Students
We also discussed the unique challenges faced by students of mixed heritage, particularly 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, is something I remain passionate about. I encourage other therapists and caregivers to continuously seek knowledge and guidance to better equip themselves for these dynamic environments.
The Importance of Connecting to Your Breath
Yoga is a cornerstone of my practice and offers 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. This integration has become increasingly pivotal over the years.
Recent Developments: Life Changes
Since the podcast, my life has changed significantly. If you watched or listened to my recent podcast with Lance E. Lee Podcast in Tokyo, you know I recently got married, and added a new dimension to my personal and professional life. Over the past decade, I’ve seen tremendous growth in my practice and have continued to develop my skills and knowledge and Koi Wellness family. My dedication to my clients and my commitment to empowering them remain at the core of my work.
Upcoming Courses
I'm excited to announce that I will be teaching two courses in Japanese this fall, aimed at further empowering practitioners and parents:
Introductory to DIR: Saturdays, September 7 & 14, 2024.
DIR 201 Course: Promoting Basic Functional Emotional Developmental Capacities: October 1 - January 7, 2025
These courses are designed to provide in-depth knowledge and practical strategies for supporting children's development, grounded in the DIR model.
A Quick Question for You!
The response to my previous newsletter featuring the podcast was overwhelmingly positive. I'm excited to continue sharing valuable insights and resources with our community. 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 content to meet your needs and interests.
Conclusion
My work as a bilingual occupational therapist in Tokyo is both rare and much needed. Being able to connect with cross cultural families is a game-changer, providing them with the support and resources they need to not just survive but thrive. By revisiting the highlights of my 2020 podcast with Tokyo Alumni, I hope you can appreciate the ongoing relevance of these insights and the continued impact of our work and community.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. Be sure to check out the full podcast for more in-depth discussions and stay tuned for more exciting content from Koi Wellness.
If you want to learn more about how I can support you and your child, you can schedule a call here and connect with me on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. Together, let's empower our children to become confident, resilient, and capable individuals.
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Warmly,
Aya Porté
Founder, Koi Wellness