The Making of Psychiatrists in Japan

Abstract

Background: Like in most countries in the world, Japan has its own system of how a medical graduate becomes a psychiatrist. Methods: The authors, young Japanese psychiatrists, describe what they have personally been through the education and training before becoming full-fledged psychiatrists who can treat patients with psychiatric diseases. All those personal experiences are validated with related documents. Results: In Japan, the pathway to become psychiatrists involves a rigorous process starting with a competitive entrance to medical school, followed by a six-year educational curriculum influenced by international accreditation standards. After graduating from medical schools, physicians receive a two-year junior residency training, which briefly introduces them to psychiatry, influencing some to specialize in the field. Specialization requires further training and certification, facilitated by the Japanese Society of Psychiatry and Neurology (JSPN) and the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare, encompassing various psychiatric settings and disorders. Beyond initial certification, there are continuous professional development opportunities, including advanced specializations and educational programs supported by professional societies such as the JSPN and the Japan Young Psychiatrists Organization. Conclusion: This system ensures a comprehensive and structured approach to psychiatric education and specialization in Japan, offering a wide range of opportunities for aspiring psychiatrists.

Keywords

• board-certified psychiatrist; house staff education in psychiatry; junior residency training; medical school