The virtual Tic Workshop Series for Parents/Caregivers is the first step in treatment for all families seeking services for children/youth with tics. This 2-session workshop series provides parents with foundational information and initial strategies typically introduced in the first phase of Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics (CBIT). This includes comprehensive psychoeducation about tics, function-based assessment, and function-based intervention strategies. In some cases, this is all the intervention needed for families to feel confident and skilled in helping manage their child’s tics. For children/youth requiring a course of treatment, this parent workshop is a good starting place for families and is expected to reduce the number of treatment sessions required.

Research has shown that parent education plays a key role in management of tics. This workshop covers science-based information about tics, strategies for identifying and managing tic triggers, an overview of treatment options, and guidelines to help parents determine any next steps.

Details

• A virtual 2-session workshop series for parents

• For parents of children and youth of all ages

Workshop Content

• Up-to-date, science-based information about tics and tic disorders

• Introductory strategies for helping manage tics (i.e., tips for identifying tic triggers and selecting strategies to manage triggers)

• An overview of habit reversal therapy (HRT) and comprehensive behavioural intervention for tics (CBIT)

• Guidelines for determining whether treatment is needed and - if so - how to access treatment

• Web-based information and resources for helping your child manage their tics

When

The Tic Workshop for Parents is offered 3-4 times each year. Families may self-refer. Registration is ongoing.

The next workshop is on: Saturday October 17, 2026 @ 10am-12pm AND Wednesday October 28, 2026 @ 6:00-7:30pm

To reserve a spot in the workshop, please complete an intake form (if you have not already done so) and email dr.mcconnell@cornerstonepsychology.ca.

Fees

Session 1: $295 per family. Session 2: $225 per family.

Up to 3 caregivers per family may attend. The workshop is cumulative so single-session registration is not available. This workshop series is not appropriate for children, teens, or siblings. A receipt will be provided (in the child’s or parent’s name) and these costs may be covered by extended health plans or other third-party payers.

Follow-up Individual Consultation

Families who attend the workshop have the option to book a 50-minute parent follow-up session and/or an 80-minute child/teen follow-up session (within one month of the workshop, virtual or in-person). These consults focus on applying tic management strategies with your specific child in mind and/or helping to determine whether treatment is warranted and recommended for your child’s unique circumstances. Consults are billed at regular clinic rates for Registered Psychologists.

Group Leaders

Dr. Tara Jukes and Dr. Melanie McConnell

Families of children ages 8-13 whose tics are causing distress or interfering with day-to-day activities are encouraged to also consider attending the Tic Busters Group.