Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) is an evidence-based treatment for Transient Tic Disorder, Chronic Tic Disorder, and Tourette Syndrome. This behavioral treatment is direct, symptom-oriented, and time-limited. CBIT consists of three primary components – awareness training, habit reversal training, and environmental adaptations. During awareness training, the individual learns to be more aware of their tics and their urges to tic (AKA the premonitory urge). Once awareness is raised to the tic itself and its premonitory urge, the individual can begin to make changes to their daily activities in ways that can be helpful in reducing tics. Sometimes, this means peers or adults in their environment also making changes to their reactions or responses to their loved one’s tics. The final primary component of CBIT is habit reversal training, during which individuals train themselves to engage in a competing behavior when they experience the premonitory urge specific to their tic.
CBIT has been proven effective at significantly reducing tics and improving one’s ability to function day to day without impairment. CBIT is not a cure for tics, as tics are involuntary and often have a neurological basis. However, it is a strongly effective management strategy that can be used throughout the lifespan.