Remote delivery of a mindfulness-based intervention for adults with tics: Protocol of a randomized controlled trial

Tourette Syndrome and persistent tic disorders (collectively, TS) are characterized by involuntary motor and/or vocal tics that onset in childhood. Existing evidence-based treatments-including behavior therapy and pharmacotherapy-are often only partially effective, associated with burdensome side effects, and/or inaccessible. The current paper describes a randomized controlled trial designed to compare a novel, remotely delivered mindfulness-based group intervention for tics (MBIT) to psychoeducation with relaxation and supportive therapy (PRST) in 150 adults with TS. All interventions and assessments will be delivered remotely using secure telehealth platforms and online electronic data capture systems. An independent evaluator masked to treatment condition will administer all tic assessments. The primary aims of the study are to: 1) examine the efficacy of MBIT relative to PRST for tic severity and 2) investigate the mechanism by which MBIT reduces tic severity. Additional aims include: 1) examination of secondary outcomes (e.g., comorbid conditions, quality of life), and 2) exploration of the durability of any observed improvements over a 6-month follow-up. Findings have the potential to meaningfully expand the range of evidence-based treatment options available to adults with TS.