What is Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT)?

At Behavior Therapy Associates, Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) is an evidence-based behavioral treatment designed to help children, adolescents, and adults manage tic disorders and Tourette Syndrome. CBIT focuses on helping individuals better understand their tics, identify situations that may increase tic severity, and develop practical strategies to reduce the impact of tics on daily functioning.

CBIT is a structured behavioral approach that teaches individuals skills to manage tic related urges and behaviors in a supportive and collaborative environment. Treatment is tailored to each person’s symptoms, daily functioning, and goals.

How CBIT Works

Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics helps individuals become more aware of their tics and the sensations or urges that may occur before a tic happens. Once these patterns are identified, clinicians help individuals develop and practice specific behavioral strategies that make the tic more difficult to perform.

Treatment also focuses on identifying environmental or emotional factors that may contribute to tic severity. Stress, fatigue, certain settings, or emotional reactions can sometimes increase tic frequency or intensity. CBIT helps individuals recognize these patterns while learning coping strategies that support improved management of tics over time.

CBIT is not focused on forcing individuals to suppress tics. Instead, treatment compassionately teaches practical behavioral responses and coping strategies that help individuals feel more in control while reducing distress and impairment related to tics.

Conditions Commonly Addressed with CBIT

CBIT is commonly used to support individuals experiencing Tourette Syndrome, chronic tic disorders, and motor or vocal tics that interfere with daily life, school, work, or social functioning.

Tics may fluctuate over time and can sometimes become more noticeable during periods of stress, excitement, or fatigue. Treatment focuses on helping individuals better understand these patterns while building skills that support long term management and improved quality of life.

Treatment Approach at Behavior Therapy Associates

Clinicians at Behavior Therapy Associates provide individualized CBIT treatment using evidence[-based behavioral approaches within a supportive and collaborative setting. Treatment plans are tailored to the individual’s age, symptoms, daily functioning, and treatment goals.

CBIT treatment may include awareness training, behavioral skill development, coping strategies, and support for managing situations that may increase tic-related difficulties. When appropriate, clinicians may also work collaboratively with families, schools, or other professionals involved in supporting the individual.

Getting Started with CBIT

Behavior Therapy Associates provides Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics for children, adolescents, and adults experiencing Tourette Syndrome and tic-related concerns. Services are available in person and virtually in New Jersey and through telehealth in many PSYPACT participating states.

To learn more about CBIT services or to schedule an appointment, contact Behavior Therapy Associates.