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Akira Ikemi: Asian Focusing Methods
- Focusing Arts Admin
- May 8
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 5
May 8, 2025
We had a rich, inspiring time with Dr. Akira Ikemi presenting Asian Focusing Methods! We learned about Akira’s studying philosophy and Focusing with Eugene Gendlin at the University of Chicago. It was interesting to hear about Akira’s concepts of “alpha” and “beta” Focusing. Akira shared how training in meditation influenced his development of Asian Focusing Methods. After explaining the process of Kansoh Focusing, Akira did a demonstration with Laury Rappaport, providing a clear example so that participants were then able to try the exercise out with a partner (in breakout rooms). A lively discussion followed with sharing and Q+A. Akira did one additional demonstration of Kanga Focusing with Lynn Pollock. It was evident that much learning happened… as we visited the roots (Focusing), branches (Asian Focusing Methods), and wings (all of our carrying it forward).
A couple highlights from participants:
"It was incredible to hear and learn from such an influential figure in the Focusing community firsthand. Thank you to Dr. Ikemi, Dr. Rappaport, and the group for the presence and listening!"
"I enjoyed it very much! I appreciate the exercise we were able to do... I got a lot from the experience!"
About the Presenter:
Akira Ikemi, Ph.D., studied with Professor Eugene Gendlin at the University of Chicago around the time the book Focusing was published. He has taught full time at universities in Japan and is now a Professor Emeritus of the Kansai University Graduate School of Psychology (as of April 1, 2025). Akira is a Certifying Coordinator of The International Focusing Institute (TIFI) and has served as a board member of that institute, as well as of other academic organizations, including the World Association for Person Centered and Experiential Psychotherapy and Counseling, and the Japanese Association for Humanistic Psychology. He is one of the founders and past-presidents of the Japan Focusing Association. Dr. Ikemi has written many articles and books in Japanese and in English, and teaches internationally online. He was named a “Living Luminary” by the Journal of Humanistic Counseling (USA) and he is the fifteenth person to receive the prestigious Japanese Association of Humanistic Psychology Award.
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