Therapy for Tics and Tourette Syndrome
Imagine going about your daily activities, only to feel a sudden, irresistible urge to blink rapidly, jerk your head, or clear your throat repeatedly. These urges can be disruptive, distracting, and sometimes even painful. You might find yourself constantly worried about when the next tic will occur and how others will react to it.
While most of us have had the experience of having an occasional muscle twitch or persistent cough, these feelings are usually temporary and manageable. However, for many individuals with tic disorders, there is a constant battle between the urge to perform the tic and the desire to suppress it. Trying to suppress tics can be exhausting and difficult, similar to trying to hold back a sneeze or resisting scratching an itch. This tension can lead to increased anxiety and stress, which in turn may cause tics to happen more often.
What Are Tics?
Tics are sudden, repetitive movements or vocalizations that are often difficult to control. They can range from mild to severe and may change over time in type, frequency, and intensity. Motor tics are tics that involve movements of different muscle groups in the body. Vocal tics are tics that involve making some sort of sound, such as coughing, grunting, or even saying specific words or phrases. When an individual has both motor and vocal tics, they may receive a diagnosis of Tourette syndrome.
Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT)
Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics, or CBIT for short, is a structured, evidence-based therapy designed to help individuals manage and reduce the frequency and severity of their tics. It is primarily used for treating tic disorders and Tourette syndrome. On average, it takes about 10-12 sessions to complete the treatment.
Traditionally, medications have been the main component of treatment of tics and Tourette syndrome. However, some people prefer to try less invasive approaches first. CBIT can also be helpful for individuals who are on medication but find that the medication does not fully eliminate their tics.
How Does CBIT Work?
CBIT is a short-term treatment that involves several key components:
Awareness Training: Individuals learn to recognize the urge that often happens before a tic occurs. When we are able to identify when a tic is about to happen, then we can do something different to help re-train our brain’s response to the urges.
Competing Response Training: This technique involves learning to substitute a different behavior for the tic itself. By practicing a different response to the tic urge, individuals can gradually reduce the frequency and intensity of their tics.
Function-Based Interventions: CBIT also addresses the environmental and situational triggers that may exacerbate tic symptoms. By identifying triggers and implementing appropriate coping strategies, individuals can gain better control over their tics.
Social Support and Education: Throughout the therapy process, individuals receive education and support from their therapist, as well as guidance on how to involve family members and other support networks in their treatment journey.
Who Can Benefit from CBIT?
CBIT is suitable for individuals of a range of ages who are experiencing bothersome tics. You do not need to have a formal diagnosis of a tic disorder or Tourette syndrome to benefit from therapy for your tics. While the severity and frequency of tics may vary among individuals, CBIT offers a tailored approach to help you manage your own symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
While we encourage folks of any age who are experiencing tics to try CBIT, we tend to find that younger children sometimes struggle with parts of the intervention. If we determine that your child hasn’t developed sufficient awareness of their tics to benefit from this therapy, then we may recommend waiting until they are a bit older. This is something that we try to assess really early in treatment to ensure that this therapy is a good fit for your family.
Why Choose CBIT?
There are several reasons why CBIT may be a preferred option for tic management:
Evidence-Based: CBIT is supported by research and has been shown to be effective in numerous clinical studies. In general, about 75% of folks who try CBIT for their tics experience at least some improvement in the frequency or severity of their tics.
Non-Invasive: Unlike medication-based approaches, CBIT is non-invasive and does not carry the risk of side effects associated with pharmacological interventions.
Empowering: CBIT empowers individuals to take an active role in managing their symptoms, providing them with practical skills and strategies for long-term success.
Customized Treatment: CBIT can be tailored to suit each individual's unique needs and preferences, ensuring a personalized and comprehensive approach to treatment.
Get Started with CBIT Today
If you or a loved one are struggling with tics and are interested in exploring CBIT as a treatment option, our experienced team is here to help. Contact us to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards managing your tics and improving your quality of life.