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Tourette’s Disorder

What is Tourette’s Disorder?

Tourette’s disorder, or often referred to as Tourette Syndrome (TS), is the most recognized among the four tic disorders, characterized by sudden, rapid, recurrent, and nonrhythmic motor movements or vocalizations, collectively known as “tics.” To meet the diagnostic criteria for Tourette’s, individuals must exhibit multiple motor tics and at least one vocal tic, although these do not need to occur simultaneously and are present for at least one year.

Tics in Tourette’s disorder are categorized as either simple or complex:

  • Simple Tics: These include brief, repetitive movements or sounds such as eye blinking, shoulder shrugging, throat clearing, or grunting. Simple tics are often subtle and can go unnoticed.
  • Complex Tics: These involve coordinated patterns of movement or sound, such as turning the head while shrugging shoulders, repeating one’s own or others’ words, or making socially inappropriate statements. Complex motor tics may appear purposeful or even inappropriate, while complex vocal tics can include sharp barking-like sounds or repeating phrases.

Tourette’s disorder typically begins between the ages of 4 and 6, with peak severity between ages 10 and 13. Symptoms often improve during adolescence and adulthood. Tics tend to wax and wane over time and are often exacerbated by stress, anxiety, excitement, or fatigue.

In addition to tics, many individuals with Tourette’s disorder also experience co-occurring conditions such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which may cause greater functional impairment than the tics themselves.

Evidence-Based Treatment for Tourette’s Disorder

At The Center for Emotional Health, we specialize in the evidence-based treatment of tic disorders, including Tourette’s disorder, using Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT). CBIT is considered the first- line treatment for tic disorders and Tourette’s Disorder by the American Academy of Neurology.

Why Seek Psychological Treatment for Tourette’s Disorder?

While tics are not inherently harmful, they can cause distress, social challenges, and functional impairments, particularly when they are frequent or severe. Early intervention can significantly improve quality of life by equipping individuals with the skills needed to manage their tics effectively.

What Is CBIT?

  • Functional Behavior Analysis: Identifying behavior patterns, triggers, and environmental factors that influence tics.
  • Awareness Training: Helping individuals recognize tics and the urges preceding them.
  • Competing Response Training: Teaching alternative behaviors to perform when an urge to tic is noticed.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Making adjustments to daily routines and environments to reduce tic frequency and intensity.

CBIT is designed to empower individuals by providing practical tools to manage their tics and improve daily functioning.

Request Your Appointment

Take the first step toward better mental health. Whether in person or through telehealth, The Center for Emotional Health is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today with any questions and to schedule your appointment.