Smile More with CBIT 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 known as Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) which presents as tic-like behavior. This condition is common in patients experiencing heightened anxiety and feelings of isolation. The movements and vocalizations seem to be an outward response of inward distress.TikTok Tics is the  most widely known FND tic-like condition and the symptoms emerge following repeated exposure to tic-like videos.

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.

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a neuropsychiatric condition in which patients experience long-term physical or sensory symptoms without a known underlying medical cause. FND can manifest in various forms, including speech, motor, and cognitive dysfunction. Due to the complex nature of this condition, specialized expertise in each area is important. 

One area of specialization is Functional Tic-Like Behavior (FTLB). Online OTs addresses functional tics in both children and adults. Our focus is to educate patients about potential triggers, including heightened anxiety, isolation, depression, dysphoria, inactivity, and social media. We also emphasize family education, sensory regulation, and CBIT competing responses to help manage symptoms. It is crucial that patients accept the diagnosis of FND, even if their symptoms may resemble tic disorders such as Tourette Syndrome. Self diagnosing based on unregulated videos by Tik Tok and You Tube influencers often leads to further complications. It is highly recommended to consult with a neurologist specializing in motor disorders.

Learn more about FND here.