Tic Support for Children in the UK- CBIT Therapy for Tics and Tourettes

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Is your child experiencing tics that are starting to cause distress or impact daily life?

You might be noticing:

• Blinking, facial movements or body tics

• Sounds such as throat clearing or vocal tics

• Tics increasing during stress, excitement or tiredness

• Your child feeling frustrated, embarrassed or overwhelmed

Tics are more common than many parents realise—but when they begin to impact your child’s wellbeing, support can make a real difference.

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What are tics?

Tics are involuntary movements or sounds that children cannot easily control. Many children describe a build-up feeling in their body—like an itch or pressure—that is only relieved when the tic happens.

Tics can come and go, and often change over time.

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What is CBIT?

CBIT (Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics) is an evidence-based therapy recommended by NICE for children and young people whose tics are causing distress or affecting daily life.

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CBIT does not aim to “cure” tics or force them to stop. Instead, it helps children:

• Become more aware of their tics and the sensations before them

• Learn alternative responses to reduce the intensity of tics

• Understand what makes tics better or worse

• Build confidence and a sense of control

CBIT combines:

• Habit Reversal Therapy (HRT)

• Psychoeducation

• Social support

• Relaxation strategies

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Is CBIT suitable for my child?

CBIT is typically suitable for:

• Children aged 6 and above

• Children whose tics are causing distress or impacting daily life

• Families who feel ready to engage in a structured therapeutic approach

CBIT works best when both the child and parent/carer are involved and committed to the process.

It may not be suitable for children who are:

• Experiencing severe developmental delays

• Experiencing active psychosis

• Experiencing substance misuse

If you’re unsure, we can explore this together.

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The importance of parent support

Parent involvement is a key part of successful CBIT work.

You play an important role in:

• Supporting your child between sessions

• Encouraging practice of new skills

• Helping create a calm, low-pressure environment

Many parents describe this as “walking alongside” their child through the process.

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How the process works

Support is always tailored to your child, but typically includes:

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Building foundations

We begin by developing a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship and helping your child feel comfortable and understood.

We also explore:

• Your child’s awareness of their internal sensations (interoception)

• Questionnaires and assessments to ensure CBIT is the right approach

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Preparation phase

Before starting CBIT, we help your child build awareness of their tics and the sensations that come before them.

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CBIT programme

Once ready, we begin structured CBIT work.

• Typically 10–14 sessions

• Starting weekly, then gradually reducing

• Sessions range from 60–120 minutes depending on stage and need

We usually begin with the tic causing the most distress, and build from there if needed.

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What to expect

CBIT is not a quick fix.

It takes:

• Time

• Practice

• Commitment from both child and parent

However, research and clinical experience show that CBIT is effective for many children, helping them feel more in control and less distressed by their tics.

Sessions can be delivered face-to-face or online, both of which are shown to be effective.

A reassuring note

Tics are not your child’s fault—and they are not something they are choosing to do.

With the right support, children can learn to:

• Understand their tics

• Reduce their impact

• Feel more confident and in control

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Get in touch

If you feel CBIT may be the right approach for your child, or you would like to talk things through, you don’t have to navigate this alone.

Get in touch to arrange an initial consultation and we can explore the best way to support your child.