Mindfulness intervention for managing tics in Tourette syndrome

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This research compares a mindfulness-based intervention for tics (MBIT) with psychoeducation and supportive therapy (PRST) for individuals diagnosed with Tourette syndrome and persistent tic disorders. The study aims to address the significant distress and impairment caused by tics and associated mental health conditions. Participants will be adults aged 18 and older who meet specific diagnostic criteria and have moderate tic severity. The goal is to improve treatment accessibility and efficacy for adults with Tourette syndrome, particularly those who do not respond to existing behavioral therapies.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. be ≥18 years of age;
2. meet diagnostic criteria for a primary or co-primary diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome or a Persistent Motor or Vocal Tic Disorder on a structured clinical interview;
3. have moderate or greater tic severity as evidenced by a YGTSS Total Tic Score of \>14 (when motor and vocal tics are present) or \>10 (when only motor or vocal tics are present);
4. be medication free and/or on a stable dose of psychiatric medication 8 weeks prior to study participation;
5. be not engaged in psychotherapy for non-TS conditions and/or be on a stable course of therapy for 6 months prior to study participation
6. be fluent in English;
7. have access to a smart phone and/or tablet.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. a current diagnosis of substance use disorder, psychosis, mania or another condition that requires another form of care;
2. severe current suicidal/homicidal ideation and/or self-injury requiring medical intervention;
3. concurrent psychotherapy for TS;
4. prior extensive experience with mindfulness and/or meditation.

Where it's running

• Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
  Baltimore, Maryland, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Joseph F McGuire, PhD — Johns Hopkins University
• Study coordinator: Lauren Browning
• Email: mbit@jh.edu
• Phone: 443-300-8836

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.