Are you or your child struggling with tics or Tourette Syndrome?
Do you want to explore a non-medicated approach to managing tics?
Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) is a proven, non-medicated treatment designed to help individuals manage their tics effectively. This approach blends the most effective therapeutic strategies with techniques that allow individuals to quickly learn how to reduce tic severity and improve their overall functioning.
What is Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT)?
CBIT is a structured therapy program that aims to reduce the frequency and severity of tics while improving quality of life. The program focuses on three key components:
- Increased Awareness:
CBIT helps individuals become more aware of their tics and the underlying urges that trigger them. This awareness is the first step in controlling tics. - Competing Behavior Training:
Once individuals recognize the urge to tic, they are trained to engage in a competing behavior—a voluntary action that serves as an alternative to the tic. By doing so, individuals can reduce the occurrence of tics. - Environmental Modifications:
CBIT includes strategies to identify environmental factors that worsen tics and provides techniques for creating more predictable and stable surroundings. This can involve adjustments to daily routines, social situations, or environmental stressors that may trigger tics.
How Does CBIT Help?
Tics are neurological in nature and can be influenced by environmental factors. CBIT aims to help individuals identify and understand these factors so they can make positive changes in their environment to better manage tics. By addressing both internal triggers (such as the urge to tic) and external factors (such as stressors or disruptions), CBIT supports a comprehensive approach to tic management.
While CBIT is not a cure for tics, it has proven to be an effective tool for reducing tic severity and improving daily functioning. Studies show that over half of individuals who undergo CBIT experience significant reductions in tic severity, enhanced control over tics, and improved overall quality of life.
CBIT Success Rates and Benefits:
- Significant Reduction in Tic Severity:
Many individuals experience a substantial reduction in tic severity following CBIT treatment. - Improved Functional Ability:
Individuals report improvements in their ability to function in daily life, including better participation in school, work, and social activities. - Long-Term Benefits:
While tics may never fully disappear, the skills learned through CBIT can provide long-term benefits, allowing individuals to manage their tics effectively and improve their quality of life.
Is CBIT Right for You?
CBIT is most effective for individuals who are committed to the therapy process and willing to engage in practice outside of therapy sessions. If you or your child are struggling with tics or Tourette Syndrome, CBIT may be a helpful treatment option. It is important to consult with a licensed professional who is trained in CBIT to determine whether it is the right approach for you. Call or email me today to see if CBIT is right for you.
Additional Resources:
The Tourette Association provides a helpful CBIT brochure available for download. You can also find additional information regarding CBIT at the Tourette Association website to learn more about the latest research and resources available to those seeking support.
Below is a success story regarding CBIT from the Tourette Association