Can CBIT Help My Child's Tics? A Practical Guide for Parents

If your child has motor or vocal tics, you’re not alone.

Tics can come and go, grow more intense with stress, and disrupt everything from morning routines to classroom focus. You may be wondering:
- Do they need medication?
- Will they outgrow this?
- Is there anything I can do to help right now?

The good news is-there is something you can do. It’s called CBIT (Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics), and as a CBIT-trained occupational therapist, I help children (and adults) manage their tics without medication-using evidence-based strategies that support the whole person.

What Is CBIT?

CBIT is a structured, behavioral approach that helps individuals:
- Recognize when a tic is about to happen
- Use a competing response to prevent the tic
- Identify and reduce triggers like stress or excitement

Research shows that CBIT is effective for many individuals with Tourette Syndrome and persistent tic disorders, often reducing tic severity and improving daily functioning.

How Occupational Therapy Enhances CBIT

Occupational therapists are uniquely trained to look at how tics impact:
- Routines at school, home, and in the community
- Social participation and self-esteem
- Transitions, regulation, and emotional well-being

By combining CBIT with an OT lens, we create custom strategies that work in your child’s real world-supporting their strengths and empowering independence.

What Happens in a CBIT Session?

CBIT sessions are collaborative and playful, especially for younger children. We:
1. Build awareness of tic sensations and patterns
2. Practice competing responses in fun, functional ways
3. Address family routines and school success
4. Coach parents and caregivers so strategies stick

CBIT works best when practiced regularly at home, so part of my role is to support you, the parent, with realistic tools and encouragement.

Available Virtually Across New York State

I offer virtual CBIT sessions for families anywhere in New York State and in-person appointments in the Greater Rochester, NY area.

All sessions are one-on-one, and tailored to your child’s:
- Temperament
- Learning style
- Occupational needs

Is CBIT Right for Your Child?

CBIT may be a good fit if:
- Your child has been diagnosed with a tic disorder or Tourette Syndrome
- You want to try a non-medication treatment
- You’re ready to take a proactive, skill-building approach
- Your child is school-age or older and able to engage in learning new strategies

Let's Talk

Curious if CBIT is right for your child?

📞 Contact me for a free consultation to learn more about how CBIT can support your child’s confidence and daily function.