Tics & Tourette Syndrome Treatment

Tics are involuntary movements or sounds that happen repeatedly. The primary difference between tics and Tourette Syndrome lies in the duration, variety and frequency of the involuntary movements or sounds. A tic is a singular occurrence, either motor (like blinking) or vocal (like throat clearing) that may be temporary and often resolves within a year. In contrast, Tourette Syndrome is a chronic neurological condition that often begins before 18 years old, diagnosed only when a person has had multiple motor tics and at least one vocal tic for more than one year.

Many children experience transient tics during development that never evolve into Tourette Syndrome, which typically requires a more comprehensive management plan involving behavioral therapy, ERP or habit reversal training.

If your child’s tics are causing them distress or physical pain at home, in school or in social settings then it may be time to consider professional support. We recommend a consultation with one of our Clinical Psychologists experienced and trained in working with tics and Tourette Syndrome. 

 Tourette Syndrome and other tic disorders may occur alongside anxiety, ADHD or obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Treatment can improve control over the tics, can improve self esteem, reduce stress and support everyday life. We can also assist with education and interventions for school.

At CY&A psychology, we provide evidence-based interventions for tics and Tourette Syndrome in-person in our London clinic and online. We use structured behavioural therapy approaches: habit reversal therapy; exposure and response prevention (ERP), and Comprehensive Behavioural Interventions for Tics (CBiT) adapted for children and young people, also delivered to adults.

Our clinical psychologists also work closely with parents, schools and sometimes other healthcare professionals to create supportive environments. We address both the tics themselves and any co-occurring conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); anxiety or OCD.

Yes. Evidence-based cognitive behavioural interventions – CBiT, ERP and Habit Reversal Therapy- can be effective for children and young people with a tic disorder or Tourette Syndrome. These therapies focus on helping the young person understand triggers, manage symptoms and build coping strategies.

CBT intervention can also assist with the common co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, OCD and Anxiety. 

No, both vocal and motor tics are primarily treated using Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT), ERP or Habit Reversal Therapy. The core strategy involves identifying the warning sign that the tic is coming, the ‘premonitory urge’ and practicing a competing response that is physically incompatible with the tic.

Whether the tic is a shoulder shrug or a throat clear, the goal remains the same: strengthening the brain’s ability to inhibit the involuntary impulse through targeted behavioral exercises.

Yes. Many children with Tourette Syndrome or a tic disorder also experience ADHD, anxiety or obsessive compulsive disorder. Our experienced Clinical Psychologists design specific treatment plans that address these needs.

Working with children and young people, our team also provides support for parents and liaises with other professionals, including schools. This combined approach ensures that emotional wellbeing, learning and home life are all supported alongside tic management.