Tourette syndrome is a neurological condition involving involuntary motor and vocal tics. It is not a bad habit, a lack of discipline or something somebody can simply decide to stop doing.
The tics themselves are only one part of the experience. Stress, tiredness, misunderstanding, unwanted attention and the effort of trying to suppress tics can also affect confidence and emotional wellbeing.
I offer complementary hypnotherapy, NLP and coaching support in Reading, Didcot and online. I do not claim to cure Tourette syndrome. My role is to help with associated experiences such as anxiety, stress, confidence, frustration and coping with difficult situations.
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Understanding Tourette Syndrome
Tourette syndrome involves both motor tics and vocal tics that persist over time. Tics may change in type, frequency or intensity. They can become more noticeable during stress or tiredness, although every person’s experience is different.
Motor tics may include blinking, facial movements, head movements, shoulder movements or more complex actions. Vocal tics can include coughing, throat clearing, making sounds or saying words.
The stereotypical idea that Tourette syndrome mainly involves swearing is inaccurate. Coprolalia affects only a minority of people with the condition.
Many people with Tourette syndrome also experience anxiety, ADHD or obsessive-compulsive patterns. This does not mean everybody does, and each area should be properly assessed rather than assumed.
The Emotional and Social Impact
Living with visible or audible tics can create pressures that other people do not always appreciate.
These may include:
- Anxiety about being watched or judged
- Embarrassment in quiet environments
- Fear of school, work or social situations
- Frustration when people say “just stop”
- Exhaustion from suppressing tics
- Low confidence following bullying or criticism
- Worry before presentations, interviews or appointments
- Increased stress when routines change
- Feeling defined by the condition
Support should recognise the whole person. Tourette syndrome may be part of your life, but it is not the complete definition of who you are.
How My Approach May Help
Hypnotherapy does not remove the neurological basis of Tourette syndrome. However, where anxiety and stress are making life more difficult, therapeutic work may help you feel calmer and more emotionally prepared.
Sessions may focus on:
- Reducing anxiety around particular situations
- Building confidence and self-acceptance
- Managing anticipatory stress
- Responding differently to embarrassment or attention
- Releasing accumulated physical tension
- Developing calmer internal dialogue
- Preparing for school, work, travel or social events
- Communicating needs and boundaries
NLP and coaching may also help identify situations that increase pressure and develop practical responses. The work is adapted carefully and does not involve demanding that you suppress tics.
You may find the pages on anxiety, stress, confidence and social anxiety useful alongside this page.
Tourette Syndrome and Tics Are Connected — But Not Identical
Not everybody with tics has Tourette syndrome. Tics can be temporary or associated with other neurological, developmental, medical or functional causes.
For a broader explanation, including when assessment matters, read Tics, Stress and Unwanted Repetitive Responses.
I do not diagnose the cause of a tic. New, painful, rapidly changing or distressing tics should be discussed with a GP or appropriate specialist.
Working Alongside Established Support
Evidence-based approaches for troublesome tics can include behavioural interventions such as habit reversal training, Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics and exposure with response prevention. Medication may also be considered by medical specialists in some circumstances.
My work does not replace those treatments. It may provide complementary support for anxiety, emotional regulation, confidence and stress where that is useful and agreed to be appropriate.
What Happens in Sessions?
We begin by discussing what is affecting you most. It may be the tics, but it may instead be somebody else’s reaction, a particular environment or the anxiety that appears beforehand.
Sessions are personalised and may include cognitive hypnotherapy, non-visual methods, NLP, grounding, practical preparation and coaching. You remain aware and in control throughout.
For younger clients, appropriate parental or guardian involvement will be discussed before beginning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can hypnotherapy cure Tourette syndrome?
No. I do not claim to cure Tourette syndrome. My role is to support associated stress, anxiety, confidence and emotional wellbeing.
Can stress make tics worse?
Stress can increase tics for some people, although responses vary. Reducing stress may make situations easier without removing the underlying condition.
Will you ask me to suppress my tics?
No. Constant suppression can be exhausting. The focus is agreed with you and is never based on forcing you to appear tic-free.
Do I need to see my GP?
Tourette syndrome and significant tics should be appropriately assessed. Seek medical advice for new, painful, rapidly changing or concerning symptoms.
Can sessions take place online?
Yes. Online sessions can be considered where they are suitable for the individual.
Ready to Ask a Question?
If you are autistic, identify with the older term Asperger’s, or think you may be neurodivergent, you are welcome to ask whether my approach may suit you.
Sessions are available in Reading, Didcot and online
MAIL@THEEXCELPRACTICE.COM OR CALL 07807 540142