What do you do?

I am a speech-language pathologist, currently teaching as a Professor in the Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, International University of Health and Welfare (IUHW) in Narita, Japan. My professional focus in on swallowing and voice. For LSVT Global I serve as the LSVT Global Representative-Japan.

How long have you been with LSVT Global?

I have been with LSVT Global since 2009, when the first LSVT LOUD Training and Certification Course was held in Japan.  I have been a coordinator for LSVT LOUD and LSVT BIG Training and Certification Courses for Japanese clinicians.

What is your favorite part of your job?

The most fascinating part is the global expansion of friendship through my profession. I have met so many wonderful people through my professional training, research activities, clinical work, educational programs, etc. LSVT courses are truly a precious opportunity to meet with new people and become friends with them.

Tell us a little about yourself:

As a speech-language pathologist, I was trained in Japan, Canada, and the US.  After spending 9 years in North America, I returned to Japan in 1996.  Since then, I have lived in Osaka until I took my current job in Narita in 2018.  My hometown Osaka is about 600 kilometers away from my university, thus I go back home to see my husband on weekends. I also have a son, who is studying at a university far from Osaka. Although it is rather unusual for a woman/wife/mother to be away from home for her career, hopefully a lifestyle like mine becomes more common in the not-so-far future in my country.

Favorite quote, food, or pastime:

My favorite memory is when I was a graduate student, studying in North America. In particular, during my master’s program, I lived in a university residence with three roommates who were like four sisters with so much fun.  We are still good friends and continue to have a big international reunion almost every 10 years.  The last reunion was in Paris, and we will soon have to start planning our next trip while we are still physically well.