How does the treatment work?

This new comprehensive treatment offers help in managing tics and Tourettes in approximately 10 sessions. If the client has other medical or psychological issues, the treatment can take longer. The treatment teaches skills in: awareness of the tics, substitution of other behaviors for the tics, and avoiding factors that make exacerbate tics. Relaxation techniques to reduce stress and relapse prevention are part of the treatment.A hierarchy of tics is developed. Homework is assigned and must be done for therapy for tics to be effective. Tics are worked with sequentially. Issues that can interfere with therapy include severe attentional difficulties, substance abuse, oppositionality, severe mood disorders, and anxiety. Parents need to be involved directly in treatment for children but less directly for adolescents.