Cognitive-psychophysiological Treatment for Tics in Young People With Tourette's Syndrome With or Without Biofeedback

Launched by UNIVERSITÉ DU QUÉBEC A MONTRÉAL · Mar 10, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a type of therapy called Cognitive-psychophysiological Treatment (CoPs) to see how well it helps young adults with Tourette Syndrome manage their tics. The researchers want to find out if adding a technique called biofeedback—where participants learn to control their body’s responses—makes the treatment even more effective. Participants will be assessed on their tics and other factors before starting therapy and then again after completing 10 to 12 therapy sessions. Follow-up evaluations will take place three and six months after treatment to see how well the therapy worked.

To join the study, participants need to be between 14 and 21 years old and have a diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome. However, those with certain conditions—like serious brain injuries, substance abuse issues, or other neurological disorders—won't be eligible. Participants can expect to have two in-depth interviews before starting therapy, where their tics and other functioning areas will be evaluated. This trial aims to help improve treatments for young people dealing with the challenges of Tourette Syndrome.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Have a diagnosis of TS as the main issue, as reported by the participant;
• • Be aged 14 to 21 years inclusive at the start of therapy.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Present a sensorimotor impairment;
• • Have a diagnosis of intellectual disability (intelligence quotient below 75);
• • Alcohol or drug abuse;
• • A neurological issue (e.g., hemifacial spasms, Huntington's disease);
• • Change medication one month or less before step 1 and up to step 4 (last measurement time) without informing a member of the research team;
• • Simultaneously receive another intervention for tics (e.g., psychologist, massage therapist) without informing a research team member.