Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT)
CBIT in PA & MD
What is CBIT?
CBIT (Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics) is an evidence-based treatment designed to help people manage tic disorders and Tourette syndrome. It can be especially helpful for individuals whose motor or vocal tics are causing discomfort, embarrassment, frustration, or disruption at school, work, home, or in social situations.
Unlike approaches that focus on simply suppressing tics, CBIT therapy helps clients become more aware of tic urges, identify patterns and triggers, and learn competing responses that make the tic more difficult to perform. Treatment also looks at environmental factors that may increase or decrease tics. Over time, clients can develop greater awareness, reduce the impact of tics, and feel more confident and in control of how they respond to urges.
How Does CBIT Work?
1
Build Awareness
Clients learn to recognize their tics, the urges that come before them, and the situations or triggers that may make tics more likely.
2
Learn a Competing Response
Clients practice a specific movement or behavior that is physically incompatible with the tic and can be used when an urge begins.
3
Reduce Triggers & Strengthen Skills
CBIT helps identify environmental or emotional factors that may increase tics and develops practical strategies to reduce their impact in daily life. With practice, clients can feel more confident managing urges and responding to tics.