Name
Examining Patient Centered Treatment Goals in Tourette Syndrome 
Date & Time
Friday, June 12, 2026
Emily Kuhn, Ph.D.
Description

Tic reduction is often used as the primary metric to establish treatment outcomes in Tourette Syndrome (TS). However, prior research has highlighted that tic reduction is not the only motivation patients have for seeking treatment. Prior literature has highlighted several other reasons for initiating treatment including managing negative emotions associated with tics, gaining increased control, and improving overall functioning. These variables are rarely assessed in examinations of treatment efficiency, limiting our knowledge of treatment effects. This presentation will introduce preliminary findings from a qualitative project aimed at better understanding treatment goals and experiences among individuals and families impacted by TS. To this point, 23 semi-structured interviews have been completed with individuals and families with TS treatment experiences. 16 interviews have been coded using thematic analysis. Preliminary themes and future treatment directions will be presented. This project is funded by the TAA Young Investigator Award.