CQC Regulated | GMC Registered Consultant-Psychiatrists

Tics in Children and Young People

If your child is experiencing tics, understanding what’s happening can provide reassurance.

Tics are relatively common in childhood and often present as sudden, repetitive movements or sounds that a child does not consciously control. While they can be concerning to observe, many tics are temporary and may resolve over time.

For some children, however, tics may persist or begin to affect daily life. A specialist assessment can help to understand what is happening, identify any contributing factors, and provide clear guidance on next steps.

We offer clinically led assessments to support children and young people experiencing tics, helping families understand underlying patterns and contributing factors, and providing clear guidance on next steps, particularly where tics are affecting confidence, wellbeing, or daily life.

Young boy in school uniform looking stressed or worried outdoors with blurred peers in background
  • Over 16 Years' Experience
  • CQC Regulated & GMC Registered
  • Clinically Led & Evidence-Based
  • Detailed Clinical Reports
Understanding tics

What can influence tics?

Tics are not intentional and cannot always be controlled. However, they can be influenced by a range of factors, including:
Tics may also be associated with underlying neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD or other related differences. Understanding these factors is an important part of effective support.
A clinical assessment can help determine whether further support or monitoring is needed.
  • Anxiety or emotional stress
  • Fatigue or disrupted sleep
  • Excitement or heightened emotions
  • Changes in routine or environment
Child in school uniform, other pupils blurred in background

What are Tics?

Tics are brief, involuntary movements or sounds that can vary in frequency and intensity.

They are typically grouped into:

Motor tics — movements such as blinking, facial movements, shoulder shrugging, or head movements

Vocal tics — sounds such as throat clearing, sniffing, or repeating words

Tics often begin in childhood and may change over time. They can increase or decrease depending on a child’s environment, stress levels, or routine.

When to Seek Support

When to seek support

In many cases, tics are mild and temporary. However, it may be helpful to seek specialist advice if:
Tics are persistent or becoming more frequent
They are causing distress or discomfort
They are affecting school, social interactions, or confidence
There are additional concerns such as attention difficulties, anxiety, or behavioural changes
Our Approach

Our services include:

We take a structured, clinically informed approach to understanding tics and any associated concerns.
01
Comprehensive child assessments
02
Evaluation of tic presentation and patterns
03
Screening for co-occurring conditions such as ADHD or anxiety
04
Detailed reports with clear, practical recommendations
05
Guidance for parents, schools, and other professionals
06
Access to further support where appropriate
All assessments are delivered by experienced clinicians, including consultant psychiatrists and specialist practitioners.
Our Process

A clear and supportive pathway

We understand that seeing your child develop tics can be concerning. Our process is designed to provide clarity and reassurance:
1
Initial discussion to understand your concerns
2
Assessment with a specialist clinician
3
Comprehensive report outlining findings and recommendations
4
Guidance on practical next steps and support
Our aim is to help you understand your child’s needs and provide strategies that support them in everyday life.
Why Choose Us

Why choose The ADHD Centre

  • Specialist expertise in neurodevelopmental conditions
  • Experienced consultant psychiatrists and clinicians
  • Structured, evidence-based assessments
  • Consideration of co-occurring conditions
  • Clear, practical recommendations for home and school
  • Established provider with over 16 years’ experience
Adult and child sitting on sofa during trauma assessment session

Get in touch

If you would like to discuss your child’s symptoms or explore assessment options, our team is here to help. Contact us to speak with a member of our team and arrange the next steps.

Choose Your ADHD Assessment

Select the option that best suits your needs.
Service
Location
Action
  • Child ADHD Assessments - IN PERSON
London - Belgravia
  • Child ADHD Assessments - IN PERSON
London - Marylebone
  • Child ADHD Assessments - IN PERSON
Manchester

Need help choosing?

Speak to our team.

Choose Your ADHD Assessment

Select the option that best suits your needs.
Service
Location
Action
  • In-person Private ADHD Assessment
London - Belgravia
  • In-person Private ADHD Assessment
London - Marylebone
  • Private ADHD Assessment
Manchester

Need help choosing?

Speak to our team.