Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics (CBIT)
If You Feel...
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Frustrated or annoyed by not being able to control your tics.
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Self-conscious or worried about how others might perceive you.
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Anxious about when a tic will occur or how severe it will be.
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Ashamed or guilty about your tics affecting others.
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Isolated or lonely due to social stigma.
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Tired, both physically and emotionally, from trying to suppress your tics.
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Afraid of being bullied or excluded.
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Hopeless, sad, or emotionally overwhelmed by your tics.
Take Control
Does CBIT Work?
A 2010 study found that youth who underwent CBIT had a decrease in tic severity comparable to the decrease seen with medication, with nearly 90% maintaining improvements six months after treatment.
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Better than Medication
In contrast to medication, CBIT can teach coping skills, specifically target distressing or painful tics, and sometimes completely eliminate tics.
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Take an Active Role
Actively participating often leads to more effective, personalized results and a greater sense of control throughout your treatment journey.
Identify Tics and Premonitory Urges
We can help you recognize the early sensations or feelings that signal a tic is about to occur.
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Develop Competing Responses
By practicing specific, voluntary movements that are physically incompatible with the tic when you feel the urge, we can work together to make it harder for the tic to happen.
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Address Triggers
Through problem-solving and relaxation techniques, we can help Identify and modify situations or stressors that make tics worse.
CBIT Therapy FAQs
​​​​Who can benefit from CBIT?
CBIT can help children, teens, and adults who have Tourette syndrome or other tic disorders. Many people find that CBIT helps them reduce how often tics happen and how much tics affect their daily life. However, everyone is different—some people notice big improvements, while others may see only small changes or need extra support. If CBIT isn’t enough on its own, we can talk with you about other options that might help. The goal is to find the right combination of strategies to support your well-being
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Is CBIT a cure for tics?
CBIT is not a cure for tics, but it can be a very helpful tool for managing them. Many people who try CBIT find that their tics become less frequent or less noticeable, making it easier to go about daily activities. It’s important to remember that while CBIT may not make tics disappear completely, it can give you practical skills and strategies to help you feel more in control.
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How long does CBIT take?
CBIT usually involves meeting with a therapist once a week for about 8 to 10 sessions. Each session typically lasts around an hour. However, the exact number of sessions can be different for everyone, depending on your unique needs and how you are progressing. Some people may need a few extra sessions for more practice or support, while others may need fewer. Your therapist will work with you to create a plan that fits your goals and makes sure you get the most out of the program.
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Are parents or caregivers involved in CBIT for children?
Yes, parents and caregivers play an important role in CBIT when it’s used with children. They are often included in sessions so they can learn about tics and understand the techniques their child is practicing. By being involved, parents and caregivers can help their child practice new skills at home, encourage progress, and provide extra support when needed. This teamwork can make CBIT more effective and help children feel more confident as they work on managing their tics.
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Does CBIT involve medication?
No, CBIT does not use any medication. It is a type of behavioral therapy, which means it focuses on teaching practical skills and strategies to help manage tics. Some people use CBIT by itself, while others may combine it with medication if their doctor thinks it could be helpful. We will work with you to find the treatment plan that fits your needs best, whether that includes CBIT alone or together with other options. The goal is to help you feel more comfortable and in control of your tics.
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