We sat down with Dr. Hongmarie Martinez, Licensed Psychologist and Certified School Psychologist from Behavior Therapy Associates in Somerset, NJ, to learn about tics and Tourette Syndrome, clarify misunderstandings, and discuss best practices for support.
Understanding Tics and Tourette Syndrome And What Parents Should Know
When parents first notice repeated movements or sounds in their child, it can feel confusing and concerning. Dr. Martinez often begins with a simple and reassuring explanation. Tics and Tourette Syndrome are neurological conditions. Tics are involuntary movements or sounds created by the brain. They are not intentional and are not under the person’s control.
Tics can be motor, such as eye blinking, facial movements, shoulder movements, or more complex full-body actions. They can also be vocal, including throat clearing, coughing, grunting, or more complex vocalizations. The difference between a tic disorder and Tourette Syndrome often depends on how long symptoms have been present, how frequently they occur, and whether both motor and vocal tics are involved. Regardless of the diagnosis, the most important point is this: the individual is not choosing to do these behaviors. The brain is producing them automatically.
Misconception One: “They Can Just Stop”
One of the most common misconceptions Dr. Martinez encounters is the belief that tics are under voluntary control. They are not. Telling someone to stop ticcing is usually well-intentioned, but it can feel invalidating and frustrating for the individual experiencing tics. The individual is not trying to make sounds or movements. Their body is doing it on its own.
Another misunderstanding is that people with tics or Tourette Syndrome are less capable or less intelligent. This is simply not true. Individuals with tics can succeed academically, professionally, and socially. When people understand that tics are involuntary, it creates more compassion and reduces unnecessary frustration.
When Should Someone Seek an Evaluation?
Dr. Martinez emphasizes that there is no such thing as “too early” to seek support. Even if tics are not severely disruptive, understanding what is happening can help families feel more informed and prepared.
Because tics are neurological, it is important to consult a medical provider, such as a neurologist or developmental pediatrician first. A medical professional can determine whether the movements or sounds are tics or Tourette Syndrome and rule out other possible medical causes. Once there is clarity, additional professional support can be considered if needed.
Seeking support becomes especially important if tics begin to affect self-esteem, emotional well-being, academic performance, work functioning, or relationships. Instead of being reactive, being proactive enables families to feel empowered and explore possibilities.
How Tics May Change Over Time
Tics often begin in early childhood as simple motor movements such as eye blinking or facial movements. Over time, they may become more complex and involve multiple muscle groups. Vocal tics can also develop and may range from brief sounds to more complex vocal patterns.
Tics can wax and wane. Some individuals notice a decrease during adolescence. Others may experience periods of increase in adulthood. For some, tics remain relatively consistent. Every person’s experience is unique.
Stress, anxiety, and environmental responses can influence how severe or frequent tics appear, even though the origin is neurological. Understanding these patterns can help guide supportive strategies.
The Impact of Tics on Daily Life
Without proper understanding and support, tics can affect confidence and social comfort. Children may notice they appear different from their peers. In school, tics can interfere with focus, be physically tiring, or draw unwanted attention. Adults may experience challenges in professional settings or social interactions, especially if vocal tics interrupt conversations or meetings.
Family dynamics can also become strained when there is a misunderstanding about what is happening. Open communication and education can have a big impact.
What Support Can Look Like
In school settings, simple accommodations can be helpful. These may include the following: not drawing attention to tics, allowing breaks, providing extended time for assignments, or permitting movement as needed. Support should always be individualized.
One evidence-based therapeutic approach is Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics, also known as CBIT. This approach includes psychoeducation about tics, identifying environmental factors that influence tics and creating supports, and teaching strategies such as Habit Reversal Training. A key component involves increasing awareness of tics and developing a competing response that is physically incompatible with the tic. The goal is management and increased confidence, not elimination.
Family involvement is essential, particularly for children and teens. When parents understand that they did not cause the tics and that effective strategies exist, it can reduce guilt and anxiety. Families are not alone, and there are educational resources and professional support available.
A Reassuring Message for Parents
Not all tics require treatment. If they are manageable and not causing distress or interference, monitoring may be enough. However, if families feel unsure, overwhelmed, or simply want more information, reaching out to a medical provider and/or mental health professional can be a powerful first step.
Tics and Tourette Syndrome are not the result of parenting choices. They are neurological. With understanding, appropriate support, and compassion, individuals with tics can thrive at school, at work, and in their relationships.
At Behavior Therapy Associates, we are here to assist you and your family. We can collaborate with school personnel, medical specialists, and other support personnel in your life.
About Dr. Martinez
Dr. Martinez has the authority to practice interjurisdictional telepsychology (APIT) from the PSYPACT commission, allowing her to provide telepsychology to clients in many states. To see if your state is included, please click on this link: https://psypact.site-ym.com/page/psypactmap. Dr. Martinez can be reached directly at hmartinez@BehaviorTherapyAssociates.com or 732-873-1212.
