Online Mindfulness-based Tic Reduction (Phase Two)

Online Mindfulness-based Tic Reduction: Development and Testing (Phase Two)

Tourette Syndrome (TS) and Persistent Tic Disorder (PTD) are chronic and potentially disabling neurobiological conditions. Although a range of pharmacological and psychosocial treatments exists, a significant number of individuals either do not respond to the current treatments or find them unacceptable. Thus, it is essential that researchers continue to develop and test novel treatment approaches.

In this randomized controlled trial the investigators will compare two different online group-based interventions for tics: a mindfulness-based program (Mindfulness-based Intervention for Tics (MBIT), and a psychoeducational and supportive therapy program (Tic Information and Coping Strategies (TICS)). The purpose of this study is to determine which intervention is more helpful for adults with a tic disorder.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. be 18 years of age or older,
2. possess a primary diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome or Persistent Tic Disorder,
3. be fluent in English
4. reside in the United States,
5. either not be taking any tic suppressant medication or other psychotropic medication or be at a stable dose for 8 weeks prior to the baseline assessment and throughout the study

Exclusion Criteria:

1. be receiving concurrent psychotherapy for the duration of the study
2. have prior extensive experience with mindfulness and/or meditation and
3. have another medical or psychological condition that would prevent the individual from fully engaging in the study or require a higher level of care (e.g., suicidality).