For more than 50 years, the TAA has led the way in research and therapeutic development for Tourette Syndrome and other Tic Disorders. Learn more about Tourette Syndrome and other Tic Disorders, and the resources we provide to medical practitioners!
What is Tourette Syndrome (TS)?
Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that becomes evident in early childhood or adolescence.
It is part of the spectrum of Tic Disorders and is characterized by motor and vocal tics. The current estimates are that 1 out of every 50 children has TS or another persistent Tic Disorder.
What is CBIT?
CBIT is a non-medicated treatment consisting of three important components:
- Training the patient to be more aware of his or her tics and the urge to tic.
- Training patients to do competing behavior when they feel the urge to tic.
- Making changes to day to day activities in ways that can be helpful in reducing tics.
Many of these strategies are already commonly used in the management of TS symptoms. Many adults with TS report that they have come up with strategies similar to CBIT to manage their tics. CBIT takes the most effective concepts and blends them with strategies that aid people in learning the techniques quickly.
Two Options for CBIT Training for Practitioners
The Tourette Association of America offers two options for practitioners to explore CBIT: No-Cost CBIT Overview Workshops.
Diagnosis
Key resources for diagnosing Tourette Syndrome and other Tic Disorders:
Treatment
Each person with Tourette Syndrome is an individual and will require an individualized treatment plan. It is important to note that not everyone with Tourette will need medical treatment and medical treatment needs can vary over time. While there is no cure for Tourette Syndrome, there are a number of treatments, including non-medicine behavioral treatments as well as medications, that can be effective at reducing tics or helping to manage co-occurring conditions. When making any treatment decisions, it is important to consult with a licensed medical provider. While TAA cannot make medical recommendations, we have provided some general information.
Co-occurring Conditions
TS commonly has a number of other neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric conditions, some of which may present before and cause more impairment than the tics themselves. These are referred to as co-occurring conditions.
CEU Webinars for Medical Providers & Allied Health Professionals
In collaboration with the CDC, the TAA is offering CEU credits via live & recorded webinars for those who are involved in the care of individuals living with Tourette Syndrome and for those who are interested in learning more about TS treatment and management. We invite physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, occupational therapists, and psychologists regardless of Tourette Syndrome experience, to participate in these educational programs.
Additional Resources
Deep Brain Stimulation
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a potential treatment for certain Tourette Syndrome (TS) patients with severe motor or vocal tics affecting their quality of life, despite other treatments. While there’s significant media interest in DBS for TS, it raises many questions. We aim to address these and provide an update on its current state.
Toolkits
Managing TS: A Guide to Treatment for Care Providers
Living with TS: A Guide for Patients and Families
What is TS?
What is CBIT?
I have TS Card
Centers of Excellence
The Tourette Association of America’s Centers of Excellence (CofE) program recognizes medical institutions that offer the highest level of care, are undertaking groundbreaking research, are leaders in training and education and provide exceptional community outreach and advocacy for Tourette syndrome and other Tic Disorders. For more information or to become a CofE please visit:
Clinical Trials
The TAA supports clinical research and clinical studies to improve the quality of life for those affected by Tourette Syndrome. The studies below are listed for informational purposes only. Visit www.clinicaltrials.gov for a more comprehensive list of opportunities to participate in research studies in your area.
