Behavioural Therapy Group for Tics and Tourette Syndrome
Tics and Tourette syndrome can affect many aspects of a child's life, including confidence, friendships, participation in school and emotional wellbeing. While tics are common, specialist support can be difficult to access, with many families facing long waits for intervention.
The Lotus Psychology Practice is developing a specialist psychologist-led behavioural therapy group for children and young people with tics and Tourette syndrome.
The programme is being developed by Dr Morvwen Duncan, Lead Clinical Psychologist, who has extensive experience working with children and young people with tic disorders, including within the National Tic Service at Great Ormond Street Hospital. Dr Duncan has also contributed to the development of behavioural interventions for children and young people with tic disorders through her involvement in international clinical and research collaborations. She is committed to ensuring that families have access to evidence-based support informed by the latest clinical research and best practice guidance.
Drawing on evidence-based approaches including Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics (CBIT), Habit Reversal Training (HRT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the programme aims to help children better understand their tics, develop practical management strategies and build confidence in everyday life.
Delivered in a small and supportive group setting, children will have the opportunity to learn alongside others with similar experiences while receiving guidance from clinicians with specialist expertise in neurodevelopmental and mental health difficulties.
Who is the Group For?
Many young people with tics may not need to see a psychologist or require specific therapy for their tics. However, if the tics are causing an impact on a young persons life, behavioural therapies are indicated as a treatment for tic disorders and Tourette syndrome. The group is designed for children and young people who:
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Have tics or Tourette syndrome
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Feel that their tics are affecting daily life, school or confidence
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Are motivated to learn new ways of managing tics
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Can participate in a small supportive group environment
What Will Children Learn?
The European clinical guidelines for Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders recommend that following a confirmation of a tic diagnosis, the first line intervention is psychoeducation - to learn about tics, what causes them, the typical course of tics and how to explain tics to other people. Young people in the group will then be supported in recognising premonitory urges, identify triggers to tics, developing competing responses and behavioural strategies to manage tics. We know that stress and anxiety can exacerbate tics, and our group will teach young people tools to manage anxiety, and to build confidence. The group provides a safe environment where children can meet others with similar experiences and learn from one another.
Why Choose The Lotus Psychology Practice?
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Led by a Lead Clinical Psychologist with experience in the National Tic Service at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
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Evidence-based behavioural interventions informed by CBIT, HRT and ERP
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Specialist expertise in Tics and co-occuring conditions such as ADHD, Autism and anxiety/low mood
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Small group format with opportunities for individualised support
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Parent involvement throughout the programme
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Outcome-focused and grounded in current clinical research
Register Your Interest
We are currently gathering expressions of interest for our first group.By registering your interest, you will:
- Receive updates about programme dates
- Be invited to an information webinar
- Have priority access when places become available
- Help us determine the most suitable age groups and session times
Register your interest below and a member of our team will be in touch.