CBT and tics

[Anonymous]

My 6 year old has had a persistent "habit cough" (as the doctor calls it) for over 6 months. We have tried ruling out all other causes (pulmonologist, allergist, nasal drip, reflux, etc) but nothing has worked and it's pretty clear it is more of a tic. Our ped has recommended cognitive behavior therapy and has said it can be successful in eliminating the cough, but isn't sure if any of the CB therapists she knows work with a child as young as 6. Was wondering if anyone on here had gone this route for a tic or habit cough, what the outcome was, and if you could point me towards a specific therapist?

Thanks so much for any leads.

[Anonymous]

I'd recommend seeing Dr. Mansueto in Silver Spring. The initial consult is $400 and they do not take insurance. That is the only practice in the entire area that does CBT for tics. Also, we went through a similar thing last year but it resolved on its own: a vocal tic that presented as a cough. One thing I think was pretty important (if I am remembering correctly) is that a vocal tic of a cough and a habit cough/psychogenic cough are NOT the same thing. Who told yo your child had a habit cough and that it was the same as a tic? If a regular pediatrician, I'd advise seeing someone more specialized.

[Anonymous]

OP here, thank you so so much for the reply! Very helpful. Our ped said it could be habit cough. I don't think she used the word tic, that was my word. We have a person with Tourettes in the family so I guess I was jumping to conclusions. Can I ask how long it took your child's vocal tic to resolve? Did it seem to be triggered by stress or anything like that? Would love more info from someone who has been through this. I am worried it could start affecting my child's self esteem because strangers are always commenting on it and asking what is wrong, if she is sick, etc. Thanks so much.