Programs & Services

Children are typically diagnosed during the elementary school years. Parents, teachers or a child’s pediatrician or primary care provider may notice symptoms and refer your child for further evaluation by specialists.

Before diagnosing Tourette and tic disorders, our experts will observe your child’s behavior and review these and other considerations:

• Developmental problems
• Family health history
• Medical records
• Psychological and social behaviors and patterns
• School records and observations
• Symptoms, including type, degree and severity

We also collaborate with community partners, especially occupational therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists across the region, to help diagnose the neuropsychiatric comorbidities that are commonly associated with Tourette syndrome and tic disorders, including ADHD, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders.

Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) is an evidence-based habit-reversal therapy. The aim of this therapy is to decrease the severity and intensity of tics by targeting environmental factors know to impact tics.

Your child may need medication if certain other common associated conditions are a problem, such as behavioral and emotional struggles, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or a mood disorder. Your child’s healthcare providers will talk with you about types of medical therapies available, including the risks, benefits and possible side effects of each.

For certain more severe situations, doctors may discuss surgical treatment, such as deep brain stimulation (DBS). The highly skilled pediatric neurosurgeons at Phoenix Children’s treat a range of movement disorders using these and other surgical approaches.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can affect a child’s behavior and ability to focus. Symptoms of ADHD vary and may include hyperactivity, trouble paying attention and a tendency to act impulsively. Children with mild or severe symptoms may benefit from specialized evaluation in Phoenix Children’s ADHD Clinic.

As a Tourette’s Association of America Center of Excellence, we stay on the leading edge of research, scientific advances and practices that improve diagnosis and care, including ongoing clinical trials.

The Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children’s is nationally recognized for an ongoing commitment to improving the quality of life for children with neurological disorders, including Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders. Our shared goals include:

• Advancing Tourette syndrome care, research, education and training
• Advocacy and awareness for Tourette’s and tic disorders
• Collaborative partnerships and support with national and international networks

Your child may qualify to participate in current clinical trials of promising therapies, available through our program. Talk to your provider to learn more.