HELPING KIDS LEARN HOW TO MANAGE THEIR TICS
ABOUT SUZANNE SANCHEZ, OTR/L
In my 20+ years as an Occupational Therapist, I've gained a wealth of knowledge through extensive education and experience that allows me to be a highly effective therapist working with children and young adults. Most recently, through the Tourette Association of America, I completed certification in Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT).
As a clinician, I am committed to supporting children and young adults, with Tourette Syndrome, through the use of CBIT. As a parent of a teen with Tourette Syndrome, I am passionate about including families as partners throughout the CBIT process. A strong therapist-child-parent connection is crucial to the success of the CBIT protocol.
WHAT IS CBIT?
Treatment for those with tic disorders, has primarily been conducted by psychiatrists and neurologists. Medications have been treatment of choice and can be effective in managing symptoms. However, Comprehensive Behavioral Interventions for Tics (CBIT), has emerged as a useful adjunct to or alternative to medication.
CBIT treatment is an 8-session program for children and adults. CBIT uses psychoeducation about tic disorders, blended with components of behavior therapy, including habit-reversal training (HRT), relaxation training, and function- based treatments.
It is important to understand that the goal of CBIT is to teach the patient effective tic management skills and strategies, rather than to cure tic disorder.
Managing Tourette Syndrome: A Behavioral Intervention for Children and Adults
Therapist Guide
Oxford University Press
2008