Comprehensive Behavioral Therapy For Tics (CBIT)

  • Comprehensive Behavioral Therapy for Tics (CBIT) is a first-line intervention for individuals with diagnoses of Tic disorders and Tourette Syndrome to reduce tics. It is a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and habit reversal training to support individuals who are seeking to reduce the impact of their tics. It is a systematic approach that aims to increase an individual’s self-awareness of tics, and then identify alternative movements (competing responses) that interfere with the expression of the tic. Ongoing practice and reinforcement of competing responses results in reduction of tics. This process is individualized for each separate tic. CBIT also aims to increase an individual’s confidence, self-advocacy skills, and stress-management tools to support an improved quality of life.

  • CBIT is ideal for children (typically older than 7 years old) and adults who:

    • Want to reduce their tics

    • Are committed to effort it takes for the program to be effective

    • Have basic body awareness

  • Initial Evaluation

    The first session will be a 60 minute comprehensive evaluation to gather information regarding your history and onset of tics, the current impact of tics on your life, other factors that may be impacting daily function (ex sensory needs), education on the neurological process of tic, tic assessment, and overview of CBIT therapy.

    Weekly Sessions

    Each session following the initial evaluation will focus on one tic per session. We will explore the impact of environmental and social factors impacting the expression of tics, increasing awareness of tics, and developing and practicing competing response(s) for the targeted tic.

    Each week homework will be assigned to ensure carry-over of skills. Sessions will also include education regarding stress management strategies and self-advocacy.

    The number of session will be tailored to the individual but typically CBIT lasts 8-12 weeks.

  • Find out more information about CBIT here from the Tourette Association of America.

  • Interested in how CBIT might be able to help you or a family member? Contact us to schedule a free 15 minute consultation call here!

  • A critical part of CBIT is the examination of environmental and social impact on tics. Occupational therapists are uniquely qualified for this because our educational background is rooted in understanding and evaluating the interplay between the environment and person and how that interplay impacts function.

    Tourette Syndrome or other tic disorders often occur co-morbidly with other disorders.

    At FCOT we have a deep understanding of the neurological factors that influence tic expression such as sensory processing differences. We are prepared with a (large!) toolbox of strategies to support regulation and can tailor them to you or your child’s needs.

    As a former school-based OT that worked in grades K-12, we have a unique understanding of the ins and outs of the school environment and special education. We can support your journey to advocating and implementing supports and strategies for your child to ensure that they are set-up to be as successful as possible.