The Tourette Association of America is pleased to offer online support groups for Parents & Guardians and Young Adults (18-25). Please see below for detailed descriptions of each group. Thank you to our group facilitators for your dedication, compassion, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
Individuals may only participate in one group, so please register for the group that best suits your needs. Priority for these groups will go to those who are in areas with limited access to support and who have not previously participated in a group.
Registration for the Fall cohort of Online Support Groups is now closed. We encourage you to apply for our Spring cohort, which begins in February 2027 – see below for details.
Attendance Policy: By registering for this group, I understand that I am making a commitment to attend all sessions of this online support group to the best of my ability. I understand that these online support groups are a limited resource and are designed for members of the TS and Tic Disorder community who have limited access to local support (through a local TAA Chapter and/or Center of Excellence). If there are local support resources available for me, I will prioritize those opportunities and allow others in need to participate in these virtual online support groups. If I am unable to attend a session, it is my responsibility to communicate to programs@tourette.org. Inability to communicate about my absence can result in potential removal from the group.
Audience: Parents and guardians of children with TS and other Tic Disorders
Description: ParentTies is a welcoming online support group for parents and guardians of children with Tourette Syndrome and other Tic Disorders. Each session combines practical education with open discussion, giving participants the opportunity to learn from guest speakers, connect with other families, ask questions, and share experiences in a supportive environment.
Throughout the series, participants will explore a variety of topics related to raising and supporting a child with Tourette Syndrome and other Tic Disorders while building meaningful connections with other caregivers.
Facilitator:
Carli Obeldobel, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist who has worked with children, adolescents, and young adults in the community mental health, primary care, and medical hospital settings. She specializes as a pediatric psychologist in supporting the coping needs of children with acute and chronic medical concerns. Dr. Obeldobel is certified in Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) through the Tourette Syndrome Behavior Therapy Institute and is thrilled to be joining the Tourette Association of America in supporting families in the TS community.
Registration for the Fall cohort of Online Support Groups is now closed. We encourage you to register for the Spring cohort, which begins February 2027.
Session 1: Opening & Welcome: TAA Resources, Programs, and Opportunities
September 1 | 7:30-9:00pm ET
Kick off ParentTies with an introduction to the Tourette Association of America’s programs, resources, events, and opportunities for families. Learn about ways to stay connected, find support, and become involved with the TS community.
Session 2: Advocating for Your Child
September 15 | 7:30-9:00pm ET
Learn practical strategies for advocating for your child at school, within healthcare settings, and throughout everyday life. This discussion will explore ways to build collaborative relationships, communicate effectively, and empower families to navigate challenges with confidence.
Guest Presenter:
La-Kee M. Smith is an Air Force veteran whose unique combination of worldwide personal, professional, and academic experiences has prepared her to contribute meaningfully across several mission-driven fields. She holds a Master of Healthcare Administration with a Public Administration cognate, a Bachelor of Science in Education in Speech Pathology and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Law & Policy (DLP) at Liberty University, focusing on education policy, consumer rights, and empowering communities to understand the laws and policies that shape their daily lives. La-Kee’s service as a Human Resources Manager in the Air Force, overseeing personnel operations, managing enlisted and civilian staff, and ensuring compliance with organizational policies, performance evaluations, and personnel development programs. She leveraged her expertise in human capital management to improve processes, mentor team members, and support mission readiness, translating military HR experience into strong leadership, administrative, and operational skills applicable in civilian organizations. She is the founder of R.E.C.O.N. (Research, Education, Compensation, Outreach Network), a nonprofit dedicated to disability rights, veteran advocacy, and public education efforts that help veterans navigate complex federal systems and regulations. To date, she has generated $16 million in benefits for veterans and family members. La-Kee has also served as a judge and reviewer for the Department of Veterans Affairs Suicide Prevention Innovation Challenge, contributing her insight as both a veteran and an advocate. Her earlier work as a teacher, speech therapist, and youth pastor, combined with her personal experience raising a child with Tourette Syndrome, OCD, and ADHD, gives her a deep understanding of the challenges families face in education, healthcare, and community settings. During her Air Force service, La-Kee also traveled the world as a musician, ambassador, and public affairs representative, where she met her husband of 21 years. Together, they have three children and have actively participated in establishing and supporting ministries.
Session 3: Understanding Co-Occurring Conditions
September 29 | 7:30-9:00pm ET
Explore common conditions that may occur alongside Tourette Syndrome, including ADHD, OCD, anxiety, and more. This session will discuss how these conditions may affect daily life and provide strategies for recognizing and supporting the unique needs of each child.
Session 4: Supporting Siblings
October 13 | 7:30-9:00pm ET
Having a sibling with Tourette Syndrome can bring unique experiences and challenges. This conversation will focus on fostering healthy family relationships, supporting siblings emotionally, and creating opportunities for open communication and understanding.
Guest Presenters:
Ryan Riegle is a husband, father, and mechanical engineer. He and Kumari have been married for 19 years and have four children. Their three youngest children have TS. Ryan has adapted to the unpredictability that arises from raising neurodiverse children. One of the adaptations is developing an awareness of each child’s unique needs and the discovery of some habits that help maintain a strong marriage within this environment. Ryan has always supported his children as they have trained to become advocates for and speak on the topic of TS awareness. He has attended Tourette National Advocacy Day and has helped with TS presentations at his children’s school.
Kumari Riegle is a wife, mother and pediatric physical therapist. She and her husband have 4 children, one daughter and three sons. Their three sons have Tourette Syndrome. This family dynamic has provided many joys, challenges and hard-earned wisdom. Kumari continues to learn some difficult and valuable lessons about raising siblings with and without TS, as well as figuring out how to maintain a strong relationship with her husband. Kumari attended Tourette National Advocacy Day and was a co-presenter at TIC-CON24 on the topic of alleviating tic related muscle soreness.
Session 5: Affirming Identity & Active Allyship
October 27 | 7:30-9:00pm ET
Explore ways to support your child’s identity while creating environments where they feel understood, respected, and valued. This session will discuss practical approaches for fostering acceptance, advocacy, and meaningful allyship at home, school, and within the community.
Guest Presenter:
Yamil Alvarado, BS is a central part of A New Path Counseling in their business operations as office manager and business developer behind the scenes. He also leads their support group for Tourette Syndrome/Tics for families.
Those who know Yamil immediately feel accepted and supported. His personality is warm, kind-hearted, and funny. His lived experience with Tourette has given him a heart and passion for helping those who are affected by TS. He hopes his story will encourage and empower others impacted by TS.
Along with Yamil’s natural person-centered skills, he has had many years of experience leading men’s groups and marriage groups. He one day has hopes of becoming a counselor or life coach. He is also bilingual in both Spanish and English, helping us to best support our Spanish-speaking populations.
In his time outside of the office, Yamil can be found mountain biking, hiking the Appalachian Trail, and spending time with his family. He is married to Tanya, and they have two energetic, spirited boys.
Session 6: Navigating School Challenges
November 10 | 7:30-9:00pm ET
School can present unique academic, social, and emotional challenges for students with Tourette Syndrome. This discussion will focus on accommodations, communication with educators, and practical strategies for supporting student success.
Guest Presenter:
Marissa Smolinsky is a Special Education Teacher in Northern Virginia. She has an undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) and a Master’s in Special Education from Northern Arizona University. Marissa has over 10 years of public school classroom experience in both the self-contained and inclusion settings. She has taught grades K-12 in Arizona and Virginia. She has TS herself, has taught students with TS, and has a child with TS.
Session 7: Understanding CBIT
November 24 | 7:30-9:00pm ET
Learn about Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT), an evidence-based treatment for tic disorders. This session will explain what CBIT is, who may benefit from it, and what families can expect throughout the process.
Guest Presenter:
Dr. Jeremy Lichtman is a psychologist and is the founder & director of Central Therapy and director of the CAPS training practicum at Rutgers Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology. Jeremy specializes in the evaluation & treatment of children, adolescents, and adults who have severe emotional dysregulation self-injurious behaviors, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and Tourette’s Syndrome. Jeremy regularly does training for school personnel and Mental Health professionals. He is a frequent presenter for the NJ Center for TS and a member of their medical review committee.
Session 8: Tourette Syndrome & Chronic Pain
December 8 | 7:30-9:00pm ET
Explore the relationship between Tourette Syndrome and chronic pain, including the physical impact that tics and co-occurring conditions can have on daily life. This session will discuss strategies for managing pain, advocating for appropriate care, and supporting overall well-being.
Guest Presenter:
Raquel Cunningham is a strength and conditioning coach based in Southern California. Her Tourette diagnosis came when she was 6 years old and athletics have played a strong role in her tic management ever since. She holds a bachelor’s degree from University of California, Santa Barbara in psychology with a minor in exercise and sports science. She was a competitive swimmer and water polo player before starting her personal training career over 12 years ago at a renowned gym in NYC then CA before going into private training. Kettlebells are her favorite exercise modality, and she is starting to learn American sign language with her children.
Session 1: February 2 from 7:30-9:00pm ET
Session 2: February 16 from 7:30-9:00pm ET
Session 3: March 2 from 7:30-9:00pm ET
Session 4: March 16 from 7:30-9:00pm ET
Session 5: March 30 from 7:30-9:00pm ET
Session 6: April 13 from 7:30-9:00pm ET
Session 7: April 27 from 7:30-9:00pm ET
Session 8: May 11 from 7:30-9:00pm ET
Audience: Young adults, ages 18-25, who have a diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome or another Tic Disorder
Description:
TicTies is a welcoming online support group designed specifically for young adults with Tourette Syndrome and other Tic Disorders. Each session combines lived experience with open conversation, giving participants the opportunity to learn from guest speakers, connect with peers, ask questions, and discuss topics relevant to navigating young adulthood with TS.
Throughout the series, participants will explore a variety of topics related to independent living, self-advocacy, healthcare, relationships, identity, and personal growth while building meaningful connections with other young adults in the Tourette Syndrome community.
Facilitator:
Tanya Alvarado is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor at A New Path Counseling with more than 15 years of experience. She is also a proud wife of a husband with TS and the mother of a son who shares the same diagnosis. Tanya’s unique blend of personal insight and clinical expertise allows her to serve the Tourette community in Florida and beyond with deep empathy and understanding. She specializes in CBT, ERP, and CBIT, offering evidence-based support to neurodivergent clients living with TS, OCD, anxiety-related disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorder in her private practice in Central Florida.
Registration for the Fall cohort of Online Support Groups is now closed. We encourage you to register for the Spring cohort, which begins February 2027.
Session 1: Opening & Welcome: TAA Resources, Community, and Connection
September 2 | 8:00-9:30pm ET
Kick off TicTies with an introduction to the Tourette Association of America’s programs, resources, events, and opportunities for young adults. Learn about ways to stay connected, find support, and become involved with the TS community.
Session 2: Service Dogs & Tourette Syndrome
September 16 | 8:00-9:30pm ET
Explore the role service dogs can play in supporting individuals with Tourette Syndrome and other Tic Disorders. Learn about the training process, daily life with a service dog, and considerations for determining whether a service dog may be the right fit.
Guest Presenter:
Hi, I’m Maggie Acbug! I’m an incoming freshman at SUNY New Paltz, a disability advocate, and a Rising Leader with the Tourette Association of America. I have Tourette Syndrome along with several other chronic medical conditions, and while my journey hasn’t always been easy, it’s inspired me to turn my experiences into advocacy and education.
One of the biggest parts of that journey has been my service dog, Sonnet. She has completely changed the way I navigate the world, and I can’t wait to share what it’s really like to have a service dog – the highs, the challenges, and everything in between. Whether you’re just curious, thinking about getting a service dog yourself, or already have one, I hope you’ll leave feeling a little more informed, a little more confident, and knowing you’re not alone.
Session 3: Tourette Syndrome & Chronic Pain
September 30 | 8:00-9:30pm ET
Explore the relationship between Tourette Syndrome and chronic pain, including the physical impact that tics and co-occurring conditions can have on daily life. This discussion will focus on pain management, self-care strategies, and navigating healthcare while living with chronic pain.
Guest Presenter:
Session 4: Finding Your Voice Through Advocacy
October 14 | 8:00-9:30pm ET
Stepping outside your comfort zone can be challenging, but advocacy often begins with sharing your story. This conversation will explore building confidence, speaking publicly, educating others about Tourette Syndrome, and finding meaningful ways to advocate in your community.
Guest Presenters:
Olivia Woodrich is an award-winning social activist and founder of a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering children with disabilities by teaching them how to advocate for themselves in the classroom. Olivia has provided advocacy training to nearly 2,000 students and parents nationwide through her training with the Tourette Association of America as both a Youth Ambassador and a Rising Leader. She has also presented anti-bullying and inclusion programs about Tourette Syndrome to over 15,000 students nationwide. Olivia has received numerous accolades for her advocacy, including the prestigious Diana Award from the Prince of Wales, and the President’s Volunteer Service Award from President Barack Obama. With a Political Science and Pre-Law degree focusing on Disability Rights Law, Olivia currently serves as a Policy Coordinator for the TAA. She has actively lobbied on Capitol Hill multiple times, securing millions of dollars in funding for TS research and delivering presentations about TS to government organizations like the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Department of the Interior.
Lauren Wyatt (23) is a passionate neurodiversity/disability advocate and international public speaker from England. She works hard to raise widespread awareness and acceptance of Tourette’s Syndrome and OCD, representing UK charity Tourette’s Action on the National Neurodiversity Youth Council, and Tourette Association of America as a 2026 Rising Leader. Lauren has an online following of over 100,000, and was a finalist in the “positive role model” category of the 2024 National Diversity Awards. Alongside her advocacy, Lauren works as a Student Support Assistant at an SEN college.
Session 5: Culture, Identity, and Tourette Syndrome
October 28 | 8:00-9:30pm ET
Culture, family, and identity can all shape the way people experience and talk about Tourette Syndrome. Join this conversation exploring how cultural backgrounds influence diagnosis, acceptance, advocacy, and navigating life with TS while embracing your identity.
Guest Presenter:
Reice Griffin is a senior economics major at Spelman College. She is a 2025 TAA Rising Leader; her advocacy focuses on improving access for Black and Brown individuals with TS as well as highlighting the racial disparities in receiving a Tourette Syndrome diagnosis. Reice has conducted economic research examining the barriers to accessing a Tourette Syndrome diagnosis. In March 2025, Reice had the honor of speaking at the TAA’s Advocacy Day Dinner. In her speech, she discussed the racial disparities in access to a diagnosis and her desire to bring community to other Black and Brown people with Tourette through her advocacy. In her free time, Reice enjoys reading, musicals, and watching RuPaul’s Drag Race.
Session 6: Traveling with Tourette Syndrome
November 11 | 8:00-9:30pm ET
Traveling can bring unique challenges and opportunities for individuals with Tourette Syndrome. This discussion will share personal experiences, practical travel tips, and strategies for navigating airports, new environments, and travel-related anxiety with confidence.
Guest Presenters:
My name is Summer Holloway and I am 19 years old living in Colorado Springs. I was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome when I was in 2nd grade, but symptoms started when I was one. I have made it my goal to be an advocate for those with Tourettes and any other disorder/disability, and through numerous public speaking opportunities I have been able to do just that. Alongside being apart of the 2026 Rising Leaders program with the TAA, I am also the 2025 Southwest Military Youth of the Year. I have spoken about living with my disability and anxiety to hundreds of people, and my passion for advocating had never swayed! I am studying pediatric pspn ychology and plan to get my doctorate in order to be a voice for those who can not be their own voice. I enjoy my job of being a part time nanny with an amazing family and spending time with my family and friends!
My name is Rose LaRose. I am a model, musician, and passionate advocate based in Upstate New York. Blending creativity with purpose, I use my platform to raise awareness and amplify voices within the Huntington’s Disease and tic disorder communities
Session 8: Receiving a Tourette Syndrome Diagnosis Later in Life
December 8 | 8:00-9:30pm ET
Receiving a Tourette Syndrome diagnosis as a teenager or adult can bring validation, new questions, and a different perspective on past experiences. This conversation will explore the journey to diagnosis, self-discovery, and navigating life after finally having answers.
Guest Presenter:
Jhonelle Bean is a 31-year-old Caribbean American disability advocate living with Tourette Syndrome and co-occurring conditions such as anxiety and sensory issues. After going undiagnosed for 18 years of her life, Jhonelle now shares her experiences living with TS through social media to help educate others and destigmatize the condition, especially for People of Color. Jhonelle also sheds light on disability awareness in general and has created a community for other Advocates to find a place to relate and get support and resources from each other called “For The Advocates.” She has also been able to share her story in magazines such as, “Voyage San Antonio” and “CanvasRebel,” and on podcasts such as “Fabulously Tourette,” “Beyond 6 Seconds,” and is the co-host of Tourette Podcast. In her free time, Jhonelle enjoys playing with her dog, reading, playing video games, and learning about new things.
Session 7: Understanding CBIT & DBS
December 16 | 8:00-9:30pm ET
Learn about two treatment approaches that may be discussed within the Tourette Syndrome community: Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) and Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). Guest presenters will share their experiences and discuss what participants can expect when exploring these options.
Guest Presenters:
My name is Callum deQuevedo and when I was 14 I was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome. In December of 2022 I had DBS at Mount Sinai in New York City. Since then I finished High School and am a full time college student! In my free time I enjoy exercising, playing video games, learning, and being around friends.
My name is Jayden Cunningham and I’m 19 years old, living in Grandview, Texas. I have Tourette syndrome, and being part of the Tourette Association of America’s Rising Leaders program has given me a lot of ways to put that experience to use. I’ve talked with legislators on Capitol Hill, spoken in front of more than 1,000 educators at a Pearson Schools town hall, worked as a counselor at Camp du Balloon Rouge, and led break sessions at the Teen Summit during TIC-CON. I’ve raised money for TAA through charity livestreams, and I led a community research project looking at how where you live and who you are affects when you get diagnosed. When I’m not doing advocacy work, I’m studying cybersecurity, running my computer repair business, or at the piano.
Session 1: February 3 from 8:00-9:30pm ET
Session 2: February 17 from 8:00-9:30pm ET
Session 3: March 3 from 8:00-9:30pm ET
Session 4: March 17 from 8:00-9:30pm ET
Session 5: March 31 from 8:00-9:30pm ET
Session 6: April 14 from 8:00-9:30pm ET
Session 7: April 28 from 8:00-9:30pm ET
Session 8: May 12 from 8:00-9:30pm ET
Adult Online Support Groups are coming soon! Click the button below and add your name to the waitlist to be among the first to know when registration opens for the next cohort.
