TELL (Tokyo English Lifeline)

TELL (Tokyo English Lifeline) is Japan’s leading English-language mental health organization, providing a wide range of services for the international community, including a free crisis line, professional counseling, psychological assessments, and community support programs. For foreign families living in Japan, it can be an invaluable resource during difficult times, whether a parent is feeling overwhelmed, a child is struggling emotionally, or someone is experiencing a mental health crisis. By offering support in English, TELL makes it easier to seek help without the added stress of communicating in a second language.

One of TELL’s best-known services is the free and confidential TELL Lifeline, which has supported people across Japan for nearly 50 years. The Lifeline is available by phone and online chat, and anyone can reach out—whether they are in crisis or simply need someone to listen. Callers do not need to be suicidal or experiencing an emergency to use the service. Trained support workers provide compassionate, non-judgmental support for a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, suicide, relationship difficulties, grief, pregnancy options, HIV, LGBTQIA+ issues, eating disorders, substance use, and many other life challenges.

The toll-free Lifeline number is 0800-300-8355, and online chat is available every day from 4:00 pm. Combined phone and chat services operate from Saturday 9:00 am through Monday 11:00 pm, Tuesday to Thursday from 9:00 am to 11:00 pm, and Friday from 9:00 am to 2:00 am. Because phone and chat availability varies throughout the week, it is worth checking the current schedule on TELL’s website before reaching out.

In addition to the Lifeline, TELL operates a professional counseling clinic offering both in-person and online therapy for individuals, couples, families, children, and adolescents. Counseling is available in English, Japanese, and Cantonese through licensed mental health professionals. For families raising a child with a disability or developmental difference, one of TELL’s most valuable services is its psychological and neuropsychological assessment program for children. It is one of the few places in Japan where families can access comprehensive assessments in English. Appointments and assessments are arranged by email, and waiting lists are possible, so it is advisable to enquire about availability and fees as early as possible.

TELL also supports the wider community through education and outreach programs. Its Exceptional Parenting Program (EPP) provides networking opportunities, educational resources, and speaker events for parents and educators supporting children with diverse needs. The organization also delivers workshops on suicide prevention, anti-bullying, child protection, and workplace mental health through its TELL @ Work program.

If someone is in immediate danger or has already taken steps to end their life, call 119 for an ambulance or 110 for the police without delay. If calling from outside Japan about someone believed to be at immediate risk within Japan, the National Police Agency can be reached on 03-3501-0110 during weekdays from 8:30 am to 5:15 pm JST.

TELL’s counseling offices are located in Omotesando, Tokyo, and Okinawa, with teletherapy available to clients throughout most of Japan. All services are provided in English, and many are also available in Japanese. For foreign families living in Japan, TELL is one of the country’s most accessible and trusted sources of English-language mental health support.