CBIT and ComB Skills Training

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Tics are unwanted, repetitive, sudden, quick, and involuntary movements or vocalizations. The neurological cause of these behaviors is not fully understood, but research is ongoing and led largely by funding from the Tourette Association of America. 

Common tics include blinking, shoulder shrugging, head jerking, throat clearing, coughing, jumping, mouth widening, nose scrunching, humming, and saying words or phrases repeatedly. The number, frequency, and intensity of tics vary from patient to patient throughout the day and over time. Tics often decrease the quality of life by causing pain, embarrassment, frustration, and anxiety. They can also make getting to sleep and performing daily activities hard. People with Tic Disorders often have co-existing conditions such as OCD, ADHD, BFRB, anxiety, dysgraphia, gender dysphoria, behavioral concerns, and Autism. Despite these difficulties, it is important to know that many people with Tourette Syndrome and other Tic Disorders are resilient and thrive with proper support.

Online OTs provides CBIT Habit Reversal Training via telehealth for the following Tic Disorders:

- Tourette Syndrome (Tourette Disorder, Tourette's, TS)

- Vocal Tics (Phonic Tics)

- Motor Tics (Movement Tics)

- Coprolalia (Taboo statements)

We also support patients with a neuropsychological condition called Functional Neurological Disorder  (FND) when the symptoms present as tic-like behaviors.

A comprehensive assessment by a neurologist specializing in Tic Disorders is essential to establish an accurate diagnosis and rule out other underlying medical conditions that may trigger tic or FND tic-like behaviors.

Learn more about Tics here.

Body-Focused Repetitive Behavior (BFRB) is a group of compulsive grooming actions. These behaviors can cause serious damage to a person's hair, skin, inner cheek, or nails. These actions begin in childhood and are often a form of self-soothing, but can lead to significant distress and social isolation.

Common body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) include:

- Skin Picking Disorder (Excoriation)

- Hair Pulling Disorder (Trichotillomania, Trich)

- Nail Biting Disorder

- Lip Biting Disorder

- Cheek Biting Disorder

- Repetitive Scratching Disorder

- Thumb Sucking Disorder

Online OTs utilizes both CBIT and ComB Habit Reversal Training to increase awareness of sensory, cognitive, environmental, motor, and emotional triggers that lead to BFRB. Patients learn to modify their surroundings and protect themselves with physical blockers and changes in their daily routines. Patients are also introduced to wearable assistive technology and community supports. 

Individuals with a BFRB often have a long history of trying to stop their behaviors and hiding them from others. Many carry a sense of shame and tend to isolate themselves. Our therapists understand how hard it is to ask for helpand the need to implement useful strategies right from the beginning of your training program. 

Learn more about BFRB here.