Application of habit reversal training for the treatment of tics in early childhood

Habit-reversal training (HRT) has demonstrated efficacy in adults and in children above 9 years of age with tic disorders. However, less is known about the utility of this treatment with children younger than 9 years of age.This is alarming given that most children with tic disorders experience symptom onset before 9 years and that existing pharmacological treatments show modest efficacy, may have side effects, and may not be an acceptable intervention to parents. With this in mind, this case report documents the use of HRT with a 6-year-old female with pronounced and impairing motor tics. Throughout the course of the treatment (eight sessions) "Megan" showed improvement in her ability to control her symptoms. Furthermore, treatment gains and improved quality of life were maintained at follow-up. This case report suggests the utility of HRT for the treatment of tics in early childhood, with developmental considerations and the integration of family-based skills training.