Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Tic disorders in children involve sudden, repetitive movements or sounds—like blinking, throat clearing or shoulder shrugging—that happen without the child meaning to. If both motor and vocal tics have been present for over a year, it may be diagnosed as Tourette’s Disorder. These tics often come and go and can get worse with stress or tiredness. While many kids outgrow them, others may need support if the tics start interfering with daily life. The good news is, treatment for tic disorder and Tourette’s in children is effective, with psychologists using evidence-based approaches like Habit Reversal Training (HRT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help kids manage their tics and feel more in control.
Tics often change over time, worsen with stress or tiredness, may be briefly suppressed, and are sometimes preceded by tension; Tourette’s is diagnosed when both motor and vocal tics persist for over a year.
Eye blinking
Facial grimacing
Arm or leg movements
Coughing or grunting
Repeating words or phrases
Making unusual noises
About 1 in 100 Australian kids have Tourette’s
Tics often show up more during quiet activities
Tourette’s often co-occurs with ADHD, anxiety or OCD
Behavioural therapy can greatly reduce tics over time
Tic disorders and Tourette’s can feel confusing and worrying for families, but there is high-quality research guiding us towards the best approaches. A 2020 review in Behavioural Neurology examined all the latest evidence and confirmed that behavioural therapies outperform other options in safety and effectiveness, especially for children and young people.
Medications may reduce tic frequency or intensity, but they can also cause side effects like drowsiness, weight gain or mood changes. As a result, current guidelines recommend behavioural therapy as the first-line treatment for tic disorder and Tourette’s in children. Medication remains an option when tics are severe or when other conditions (for example ADHD) are present, but it is no longer the default starting point.
Habit Reversal Training (HRT) leads the way in non-medication treatments. This approach teaches children to notice the physical urge that precedes a tic and then use a competing response (a gentle, alternative movement) until the urge passes. Over time, HRT reduces both the frequency and intensity of tics.
When HRT is delivered within a Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics (CBIT) program, outcomes improve further. CBIT adds relaxation exercises, education for the whole family and strategies to manage environmental triggers such as stress or tiredness. Studies show CBIT not only cuts tics but also boosts a child’s confidence and control, making it the recommended choice in Australia’s treatment for tic disorder and Tourette’s in children.
Researchers are exploring online therapy programs, smartphone apps and brain-based techniques such as neurofeedback. While these are still under study, they promise greater flexibility and could improve access to expert care for families in regional or remote locations.
Behavioural therapy remains the most effective and safest first step in treatment for tic disorder and Tourette’s in children. Therapies like HRT and CBIT have a strong research base, minimal side effects and empower families with practical skills. Medications may be added when necessary, but it is not always required.
At MindBox Psychology, our clinicians are trained in evidence-based treatment for tics and Tourette’s. We work closely with children and their families to develop personalised strategies and support every step of the way. If you have concerns about your child’s tics or wish to explore treatment options, our team is here to help.
*Source: A Review of the Current Treatment of Tourette Syndrome – National Library of Medicine | PubMed Central
Help your child understand that tics aren’t their fault, and trying to stop them all the time can make things worse.
HRT teaches kids to spot the urge before a tic and respond with a different movement. It’s one of the most effective therapies.
Tics often get worse with tiredness or stress, so a predictable, low-stress routine can help.
Clinical Psychologist, Director of MindBox Psychology
Our Psychologists are highly qualified, with Masters or Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology. We use evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Habit Reversal Training (HRT), to provide tailored support for children with Tourette’s and tic disorders, helping them manage symptoms and improve daily functioning.
Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
For our latest updates, subscribe below
