Comprehensive Behavioral Interventions for Tics (CBIT)

Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) incorporates Habit Reversal Training (HRT). The first part of any treatment for tics and Tourette’s Syndrome is awareness training. The client tracks their tics as they do them. We want the client to see just how much they are engaging in the tic. Similarly, we need clients to become completely aware of how they are completing their tics. We have them tic in front of mirrors. They might even record themselves doing tics on their phones so that they can see the specific muscles involved in completing the tic and the order in which the movements are made. Breaking down the steps taken to complete the tics helps to treat them.

The client will then create a competing response for the tic. The competing response is a behavior that takes the place of the tic. The competing response must be able to be maintained for a couple of minutes and be discreet. Clients do the treatment at their work, school, or in the general public. Relaxation exercises are implemented throughout treatment.

For more information, you can visit www.tourette.org.