Henry Is Japanese Man

Presenting Information: Henry is a 46-year-old Japanese man. He was born in Japan and moved to the United States by himself when he was in his early 20s to go to college and work. He presents to counseling with multiple complaints of depressive symptoms, anxiety about being in social situations, along with relationship problems, and financial challenges. He reports feeling irritable and down most of the time but continues to go to work even though he does not have the energy. He also states that he experiences nervousness when he is around people at work and socially, so much so that he has begun to isolate himself. He feels afraid to talk to people because he thinks "They will look at me like I am stupid and just walk away. So I just don't talk to people. I'm better off that way anyway because nobody understands my situation." He states that it is difficult for him to come to counseling because his Japanese beliefs do not support counseling. He came due to the strong encouragement from one of his American friends.

Social History: Henry states that he was engaged to be married but his fiancé left him for another man about 6 months ago. They were together for about 3 years. Henry states "I came home from work one day and she had all of her stuff packed and told me she didn't love me anymore and left. I just didn't know what to say or do and ever since then I've been stuck." His fiancé was Japanese as well but was more Americanized then Henry felt he was. Even though he has lived in the United States for many years he states he tries to remain close to his cultural roots. Henry has never been married and does not have any children. He has a few friends but states that he does not spend much time with them any more. He feels like they see him as weak because he can not move on from the break up. He was also involved in Karate as a four time black belt but has dropped out of the dojo.

Mental Health/Addictions History: Henry states that he has never been to counseling and has never abused any substances.

Family History: Henry's family still live in Japan, and he feels that they have a close relationship. His parents are elderly and are very traditional in their Japanese ways, so he does not talk to him about his problems or about seeking counseling. He is an only child. Henry reported that while in high school he was bullied a lot by