Tic Busters Group

Tic Busters provides children (ages 8 to 13 years) an opportunity to learn effective, evidence-based strategies for managing tics and associated challenges, in a supportive, fun group format. All aspects of Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics (CBIT) are covered, including habit reversal therapy (learning competing responses for tics) and function-based interventions (managing environmental factors that contribute to tics). Children also have opportunities to develop tools for managing challenging situations related to tics, and to develop positive connections with others working on similar strategies and goals. Parents are involved for part of each session and also attend two parent-only sessions.

Details

  • An 8-week in-person CBIT group for managing tics and associated challenges

  • 6 in-person 75-minute sessions for children and 2 virtual 60-minute sessions for parents (parents also attend part of the child sessions )

Group Content

  • Children and parents will learn habit reversal strategies and practice competing responses for tics

  • Common tic triggers will be reviewed and resources for helping manage these will be provided

  • Families will learn strategies for managing stress (a common trigger for tics)

  • Children will learn strategies for self-advocacy about tics

  • Parent sessions will support parents to help children engage in ongoing practice, develop competing responses, and familiarize with additional strategies/resources to help manage tic-related challenges

When

Referrals are accepted on an ongoing basis and Tic Busters is offered twice per year (typically each Fall and Spring). The next group starts on Monday Jan. 13th @ 3:45 pm. We are currently scheduling Tic Busters intake appointments, so please click below to fill out an intake form (if you have not already done so) and email dr.mcconnell@cornerstonepsychology.ca to schedule an intake appointment.

Cost

$275 per session. You will receive a receipt and costs may be covered by extended health plans or other third party payers. Session attended by a parent may be billed in the child’s or parent’s name.

Group Leaders

Dr. Tara Jukes and Dr. Melanie McConnell

We strongly recommend that parents attend the Tic Workshop for Parents prior to children attending the Tic Busters Group, when possible.