01/08/2026
January 1, 2026, below is published on the Monthly NY life and attached the original.
Contemporary Origami: Expand the circle of people
From Japanese Origami to Global Origami
Toshiko Kobayashi President of Origami Therapy Association
Origami Therapy Association (OTA) is an organization that uses origami as a therapeutic tool for mental health care, stress reduction, rehabilitation, and other related fields. It’s important to note that the OTA’s focus is on the therapeutic aspects of origami, not its artistic or recreational value.
Following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, thousands of cranes were folded and displayed in various locations. Toshiko Kobayashi, a recent graduate of an art therapy master’s program, used origami as a therapeutic tool while working as a crisis counselor for “Project Liberty” (a Federal Government initiative). This incident marked a turning point, leading to the growing recognition of origami’s potential in psychotherapy. Initially, her approach was called Enrichment Origami Art Therapy, but it was later renamed Expressive Origami Therapy (EOT). EOT remains the foundational philosophy of the Origami Therapy Association (OTA). After that, in 2006, the JAMSNET (a government-private partnership) was established to reassess the protection of Japanese people. OTA actively participated in this initiative. With the support of the Japanese Consulate and the Japanese American Association, origami workshops were held at various events, including the Tanabata Festival, JAPAN Heritage Nights, Japan Day, and health fairs held in spring and autumn. Additionally, OTA participated in the Spring Festival of the United Nations International School and the Hiroshima-Nagasaki Peace Memorial Ceremony, where we offered a prayer of peace using origami to foster a sense of unity between the United States and Japan.
Furthermore, we are dedicated to spreading origami therapy both domestically and internationally. This includes conference presentations in the United States, Europe, Japan, and Asia, as well as workshops in Canada, South America, Africa, and Singapore. Origami experts who align with OTA’s philosophy are also actively involved in Nigeria, India, Taiwan, and other countries. In addition to these efforts, we conduct a wide range of activities such as monthly workshops, education for origami therapists, publications, and research paper writing.
Origami, a familiar childhood memory for those born and raised in Japan, becomes unfamiliar to people outside the country. Even in New York, the challenge of teaching origami becomes apparent. Origami’s dual nature, combining magic-like elements and geometry, unfolds into unexpected shapes with each fold. Anyone with the ability to perceive, see, touch, and move can engage in this art form, and anyone interested can enjoy it. While dexterity and well-folded pieces are secondary, the psychological impact of origami is significant. However, the desire to “try” is also crucial in the process of folding paper.
The exact origins of origami remain uncertain, but it has gained international recognition in the 21st century. Origami has captivated and remained popular among Japanese people for over a millennium. The Origami Therapy Association continues its efforts to share origami with New Yorkers living in international cities and Japanese people residing there, fostering a sense of connection through this timeless art form.
Toshiko Kobayashi, LCAT
President of Origami Therapy Association
Origami Therapy Association
