Junior High Hikikomori Support: Tokyo Gov vs. JPC’s “Autonomy”

Junior High Hikikomori Support: Why “Just Watching” Isn’t Enough

For over 40 years, I have dedicated myself to resolving issues of school refusal and “Hikikomori” (social withdrawal). Having consulted with over 10,000 families, I am Takanobu Sugiura, and I have seen countless children successfully reintegrate into society.

If you are reading this, you might be feeling stuck. Perhaps you’ve contacted the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s consultation desks only to be told to “wait and see,” or maybe you feel uneasy about aggressive “interventionist” companies that force children out of their rooms.

The JPC (Japan Parent Coach) method does not aim for mere “Independence” (standing alone). Instead, we focus on “Autonomy” (Self-Regulation)—the ability for a child to take initiative and move forward of their own volition.

Starting April 1, 2026, I will accelerate this mission under our new organization, “JADA: Japan Autonomy Development Association.” In this article, I will explain the critical difference between public support in Tokyo and the JPC approach to fostering “Autonomy.”

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The Benefits and Limits of Tokyo’s Public Support

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government offers various consultation services. These are beneficial because they provide a sense of public security and low-cost “safe spaces” (such as “Adaptive Guidance Classrooms”).

However, from my 40+ years in the field, I must highlight a major limitation: most public advice boils down to “Wait and see” (Passive Support).

For junior high students, there are “deadlines” like high school entrance exams. While waiting, children lose their connection to society, and the withdrawal often becomes more chronic and severe. You cannot afford to lose this precious time.

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[Case Study] Fostering “Autonomy” with Coach Okura: 5 Years & 400+ Visits

JPC (JADA) achieves results because of specialists like Okura, a professional coach who has spent over 5 years conducting more than 400 home visits to families in crisis.

The Case of “Kaito” (Pseudonym)

Kaito, a junior high student, was trapped in a cycle of day-night reversal and total silence at home. Public counselors advised “watchful waiting,” but the situation only worsened. That is when Coach Okura intervened.

Based on his experience with over 400 cases, Okura realized that Kaito wasn’t “stuck”—it was his parents’ anxiety that was “preventing him from moving.”

• Parental Update: Okura trained the parents to stop giving orders and instead use coaching techniques that encourage a child’s autonomy.
• The Awakening of Autonomy: Once the parents let go of the need to control him, Kaito began regulating his own smartphone use and fixing his sleep schedule on his own.
• The Result: Without being forced, Kaito decided his own future path, chose a high school, and began studying for exams. He now attends school by his own choice.

This is not “Independence” forced by a third party; it is “Autonomy” achieved through the child’s own will.

[Must Read] 16 Success Stories of Overcoming Hikikomori
See the real journeys of children who regained their autonomy.
View Success Stories Here

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Watch and Learn: The Reality of Autonomy Support

Experience the reality of “Autonomy Support” through our video content. I, along with our field staff, discuss the essence of resolving hikikomori.

▶ Takanobu Sugiura YouTube Channel: Success Case Studies

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The 3 Steps to “Autonomy” via JPC (JADA)

Our philosophy focuses on these three critical processes:

1. Parental Update: Parents shift from being “instructors” to “coaches” who foster autonomy.
2. Creating a “Safe Base” at Home: Remove the pressure of “Go to school” so the child can recharge their energy.
3. Social Reintegration via Autonomy: The child decides to move forward not because they are “made to,” but because they “want to.”

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Summary: What You Can Do Today

On April 1, 2026, I will embark on a new journey with “JADA: Japan Autonomy Development Association,” alongside professionals like Coach Okura.

Fostering “Autonomy” rather than just “Independence” is a lifelong gift that allows your child to navigate the world on their own feet. Do not suffer alone; lean on our decades of expertise.

▼ 30-Minute Free Consultation: The Shortest Path to Autonomy

Let 40+ years of experience clarify the “exit” for your family.Apply for a Free Consultation