What Are Tics?

Tics are sudden, repetitive movements or vocalizations that can feel hard or impossible to control. They may look like blinking, head jerking, throat clearing, or repeating sounds or words. Tics often increase during times of stress, excitement, or fatigue—and they can come and go in waves.

Tics are common in childhood. For some, they fade on their own. For others, they become more persistent and may be diagnosed as Tourette Syndrome or another tic disorder.

How We Help

We use Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT), a research-backed, non-medication approach that teaches kids how to:

• Build awareness of their tics and urges

• Use competing responses to interrupt the tic cycle

• Reduce the intensity and frequency of tics over time

• Strengthen regulation and reduce stress triggers

CBIT is recognized as the most effective behavioral treatment for tics and is recommended by the Tourette Association of America.

We also support families in navigating school accommodations, emotional support, and helping siblings understand what’s going on.

Conditions We Treat

• Provisional Tic Disorder

• Persistent Motor or Vocal Tic Disorder

• Tourette Syndrome

• Co-occurring disorders -Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Autism etc.

Why Treating Tics in Kids Matters

Improves Daily Functioning
Tics can interfere with focus, schoolwork, socializing, or sleep. Reducing their intensity or frequency helps kids better engage in daily life.

Boosts Confidence
Children with visible tics often feel self-conscious or worry about being teased. Learning how to manage tics helps them feel more in control and less anxious about being “different.”

Reduces Emotional Distress
The urge to tic can cause discomfort or anxiety. Treatment helps kids recognize and respond to these urges with skills that reduce stress and build emotional regulation.

Prevents Avoidance Behaviors
Without support, some kids may start avoiding situations where they fear their tics will show up. Treatment helps them stay engaged in school, friendships, and activities they care about.

Supports Long-Term Self-Management
Therapies like CBIT teach kids lifelong tools to manage tics and cope with internal triggers—setting them up for long-term success as tics change or evolve over time.

What Sets Us Apart

Advanced training in CBIT and HRT (Habit Reversal Training)

Approachable, kid-friendly therapists experienced in anxiety and tics

Strong understanding of co-occurring conditions like OCD & ADHD

Collaborative care that includes parents, schools, and providers

We offer an effective non-medication option for treatment of child tics

We offer child and teen therapy in-person at our Portland, Oregon office and online for families across Oregon and California. Whether you’re looking for specialized child therapy or practical parent support our team is here to help.

Contact us today or schedule a free 15 min consultation