Hosted by Dr. Rhonda Black at Special Education from July 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025
Self-introduction:
Dr. Yusaku Omodaka was born in Fukuoka, Japan, and spent his childhood in various cities across the country due to his parents’ work. After completing his graduate studies, Yusaku worked as a clinical psychologist at a psychiatric hospital specializing in emergency psychiatry in Japan. At the hospital, he provided social rehabilitation programs for individuals with mental and developmental disabilities. After eight years in this role, he joined Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan as a research fellow (i.e., assistant professor) and is currently serving as an associate professor.
Supported by Japan’s public research funding, he will stay in Hawai’i and conduct research from July 2024 to March 2025. He has a deep interest in providing psychological and career support to diverse students and is also deeply intrigued by the nature and culture of Hawai’i.
Hawai’i, known as one of the most diverse regions in the world, fascinates Yusaku. He is eager to learn how individual diversity is respected and how self-determination is fostered in such a unique environment.
Regarding his research in Hawai’i, Yusaku shares:
“Exploring self-advocacy among students with disabilities in Hawai’i is a special opportunity. In both Japan and the United States, laws have been enacted to eliminate discrimination against people with disabilities, and efforts to provide reasonable accommodations are advancing. However, despite these legal developments, many students with disabilities still encounter challenges in accessing support. Career support, in particular, remains a significant hurdle. I am especially interested in understanding how individuals with diverse needs, particularly students with disabilities, can make independent career choices and live independently.”
Academic Background:
He earned a PhD in Psychology (Specialization: Clinical Psychology) at Kyushu University (2018).
Research Interests:
- Self-advocacy for students with disabilities
- Layered support for diverse students
- Career support for students with disabilities
- Individual optimization in the work environment for individuals with mental and developmental disabilities