Tics
We understand that some individuals are comfortable with their tics, while others find at least certain ones bothersome. We therefore support individuals on their particular goals regarding tics.
Tic ‘Disorders’ and Tourettes
We support individuals who have been identified as having a Tic ‘Disorder’/ Tourettes to manage any bothersome tics using Cognitive Behavioural Intervention for Tics (CBiT). This therapy first provides education about tics and then explores triggers for an individual’s tics. Strategies to reduce or lessen the impact of those triggers are discussed, including through environmental changes. Sometimes this is enough for clients; however for others we move onto developing competing responses for bothersome tics which requires between-session practice. Over time individuals develop the ability to generalise their skills to new triggers and new bothersome tics that emerge.
This therapy can work in conjunction with an individual being on medication for tics, and often the dual approach can provide added benefit.
Functional Tics
For individuals with functional tics, our approach is to focus on supporting regulation of the nervous system. Increasing regulation and developing a wider ‘window of tolerance’ often leads to a decrease in functional tics. We also work on developing acceptance of these neurological sort of hiccups, and other more holistic support - see our page on Functional Neurological Disorder (FND).