Tourette Syndrome Association of Australia (TSAA)

The Tourette Syndrome Association of Australia (TSAA) is dedicated to providing support, education, and advocacy for individuals and their families. TSAA works tirelessly to raise awareness about Tourette Syndrome, offer resources to those affected, and promote research into better treatments and understanding of the condition. From my experience, their commitment to providing a safe and friendly environment while improving the quality of life for people with Tourette’s is unwavering. I have many great memories of being amongst individuals with Tourette’s who looked like they were in a space where they were comfortable. They offer valuable services such as peer support, workshops, camps, and informative materials. The TSAA is great resource for anyone looking to connect with a supportive community and access reliable information about tics Tourette Syndrome.

https://tourette.org.au/

Tourette Association of America (TAA)

The Tourette Association of America (TAA) is a fantastic web resource for anyone looking to learn more about Tourette Syndrome, offering a wealth of information. While TAA focuses on supporting individuals and families in the U.S., its website is packed with research updates, educational materials, and expert advice. I’ve found their content to be evidence-based, clear, empowering, and easily applicable to various contexts, whether you’re looking for information on managing tics or understanding treatment options.

https://tourette.org/

TicHelper

The TicHelper website is an excellent option for individuals or families who might not have access to or cannot afford regular sessions with a psychologist trained in CBIT. It’s an online platform that provides structured guidance through the same techniques used in CBIT therapy, offering step-by-step support to help manage tics. There is also strong research evidence that it helps people reduce their tics. I find it especially useful because it allows people to work on reducing tics at their own pace and in the comfort of their own homes.

Although TicHelper is a great resource, it can sometimes be helpful to check in with a psychologist who is experienced in CBIT to help guide you through the process and problem-solve if progress stalls. They can provide tailored coaching and troubleshoot any challenges to ensure you’re getting the most out of the program.

https://www.tichelper.com/

Paediatricians and Neurologists

I generally recommend families visit a paediatrician or a neurologist when a young person presents with what appear to be tics. Paediatricians and neurologists specialise in diagnosing and managing neurological conditions, which can be complex and sometimes involve other co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, or OCD. They have the expertise to evaluate whether tics are part of a broader neurological issue and can rule out other medical causes.

paediatricians and neurologists can offer guidance on medical treatment options, such as medications if tics are severe and impacting quality of life. Having this professional medical support can complement behavioural treatments like CBIT, ensuring a comprehensive approach to managing tics. It’s also beneficial to involve them early in the process to get an accurate diagnosis and access to a multidisciplinary care team when needed.

Below are a few clinics in Melbourne where I know there is expertise in this area:

https://www.melbournepaediatricspecialists.com.au/practitioners/

https://www.cabrini.com.au/services/paediatrics/

https://www.cpmgmelbourne.com.au/general-paediatricians

https://www.cpmgmelbourne.com.au/our-services/neurology

https://www.andrewkornberg.com/what-is-neurology/movement-disorders-tics-and-tourette-syndrome/

https://www.flourishpaediatrics.com.au/

https://www.melbchildrensclinic.com.au/