The authors provide a sociohistorical overview of the development of the counseling profession in Japan. They describe Japan's major social, cultural, and political changes; growing psychological problems in Japanese society; and an increased need for counseling services. Historical overviews and the current state of counseling are presented with…

In Japan, strong emphasis on career planning and placement exists within both school and public agencies. Both services have concentrated their efforts in secondary educational programs. Career guidance is minimal in elementary education. Current trends show that both services are beginning to adopt a more developmental approach to career…