Online Support Groups for Tourette Syndrome - Tourette Association of America

Online Support Groups

The Tourette Association of America is pleased to offer online support groups for Adults (26+), 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 Winter cohort of Online Support Groups will close on January 17, 2025.

PLEASE NOTE:

To participate, the only equipment you will need is an internet connection on a computer, iPad/tablet or similar device, and a working microphone. A web cam is not necessary, but highly encouraged since the groups are interactive. You will be able to see the facilitator(s) on the meeting. All support groups will be held on Zoom.
Space for these support groups is limited and registration is on a first come, first serve basis. Due to the limited space, please only register to join if you intend to be fully involved and participate in all the group sessions.
All groups are scheduled in Eastern Standard Time.
Once each group has been filled, those interested in participating in the next session will be added to the waitlist.

Attendance Policy: By registering for this group, I understand that I am making a commitment to attend all six 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 the group facilitator and TAA program manager, Alexandra Walsh at [email protected]. Inability to communicate about my absence can result in potential removal from the group.

Select a Support Group

Groups for Parents & Guardians

Tourette Syndrome 101 Support Group
Resiliency Support Group
Tourette Syndrome & Explosive Behaviors Support Group

Groups for Young Adults (18-25)

Mas Voices: Hispanic Young Adults with Tourette Syndrome
African American & Black Young Adult Support Group
Young Adult Support Group
LGBTQ+ Support Group

Groups for Adults (26+)

Online Support Groups for Parents & Guardians

Online Support Groups for Parents & Guardians are made possible in cooperation with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These support groups are available for people who may be in underserved areas with limited access to resources and support.

Parent and Guardian Support Group:

Tourette Syndrome 101

Audience: Parents of children with TS or Tic Disorders who have been newly or recently diagnosed, within the last 6 months to one year.

Description: This support group will focus on the basics of Tourette Syndrome. Parents will learn exactly what TS is, tips for management strategies, and meet other parents who are also early on in their TS journey. Each meeting will include a brief education session regarding the specific topic listed below, followed by group discussion and conversations regarding real-life application, current experiences and strategies that have been helpful.

Session Dates, Times & Topics

Session 1: January 15, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST– Topic: Introductions and Welcome  

Session 2: January 29, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic: Welcome to the Iceberg  

Session 3: February 12, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic: Understanding Behaviors in TS  

Session 4: February 26, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic: Supporting your Learner   

Session 5: March 12, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic: Affirming Identity and Active Allyship

Session 6: March 26, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic: Next Steps

Facilitated by Lauren Snelling, AM, LCSW

Lauren Snelling AM, LCSW (she/her) is an early childhood counselor at the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools in Chicago. Lauren received her Bachelors in Psychology with a minor in African American Studies at the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana. She went on to obtain her Masters in Social Work from the School of Social Service Administration at the University of Chicago. Snelling also holds a certificate in the Multi-Contextual and Relational treatment of trauma from Simmons University.

Snelling is a trained trauma psychotherapist turned educator, counselor and speaker who is committed to disrupting systems to support Black children and help all children create a strong foundation of identity. She has worked in Outpatient Psychology settings both in Boston and Chicago and has numerous experiences in Evidence-Based practices including a post-masters fellowship at Children’s Hospital Boston.

Dedicated to rest, self-care, community building and creating positive visibility within the early childhood field, she is a member of the Early Childhood Leaders of Color Collaborative and an EdSurge Voices of Change Writing Fellow. Snelling found validation and acceptance in her experiences with the TAA and is committed to building validating spaces and community for children and families within the TAA. In her free time, she forages and gardens with her son and is an advocate for food sovereignty.

Parent and Guardian Support Group:

Parent & Guardian Resiliency with Shannon Ferrelli, LICSW

Audience: Parents of children with Tourette Syndrome or other Tic Disorders

Description: This group is a safe space designed to provide empathy, guidance, and mutual support to navigate the challenges of helping children cope with difficult tics. Together, you will share experiences, exchange coping strategies, and offer strength and encouragement on the journey to create a supportive community where no one feels isolated.

Session Dates, Times & Topics

Session 1: January 13, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST – Topic: Welcome and Introductions

Session 2: January 27, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST – Topic: Welcome to the Iceberg

Session 3: February 10, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST – Topic: Maximizing Your Support System

Session 4: February 24, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST – Topic: Navigating Public Situations

Session 5: March 10, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST – Topic: Your Well-Being is Most Important

Session 6: March 24, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST – Topic: Planning for the Future

Facilitated by Shannon Ferrelli, LICSW

Shannon has worked as a School Social Worker for the past 16 years, in public school settings, a therapeutic program, alternative schools, and a charter school. She earned her master’s degree in social work from Simmons College and holds an LICSW. Shannon is passionate about working with the Tourette Association of America (TAA) as an Educational In-Service Volunteer and to support other families affected by Tourette Syndrome. Shannon “found her people” and support system while participating in TAA events. Shannon loves being a boy mom to her 8 and 10-year-old sons and spending time with her family.

Parent and Guardian Support Group:

Tourette Syndrome and Explosive Behaviors

Audience: Parents of children/teens with TS or Tic Disorders who experience explosive outbursts.

Description: Tourette Syndrome impacts people and families differently resulting in different levels of need. TAA is offering monthly virtual meetings for parents of children with explosive behaviors. Each meeting will include a brief education session regarding the specific topic listed below, followed by group discussion and conversations regarding real-life application, current experiences and strategies that have been helpful.

Session Dates, Times & Topics

Session 1: January 16, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic: Recognizing ‘disinhibition’ impact on symptoms.  

Session 2: January 30, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic: How related disorders can increase explosive behavior.  

Session 3: February 13, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic: De-escalating strategies to help reduce explosive behaviors.   

Session 4: February 27, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic:  Federal laws which protect students from suspensions/expulsions  

Session 5: March 13, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic: TAA’s resource “Functional Behavior Assessments & Positive Proactive Plans” can be critical when developing behavior intervention plans  

Session 6: March 27, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic: School Assessments/Evaluations: Simple tips parents can use during IEP/504 Plan meetings  

Facilitated by Kathy Giordano and Dr. Eric Herman

Kathy Giordano

Kathy has been a resource for families and schools since 1993 providing support and information regarding challenges related to Tourette syndrome. For over thirty years, she has presented internationally regarding Tourette syndrome, Functional Behavioral Assessments, and positive/proactive behavioral management plans. Kathy along with her son, Matt, authored a book titled: A Family’s Quest for Rhythm: Living with Tourette, ADD, OCD and Challenging Behaviors. She has also been serving as the facilitator for a support group for parents of children with Tourette and explosive behaviors for the past 5 years in Rochester, NY.

Eric Herman, M.D.

Dr. Herman is the Chief Primary Care & Population Health Officer for Oregon Health & Science University. He is a practicing family medicine physician who received his medical degree from University of Washington and completed residency in 2004. He also serves as the physician executive for the OHSU Long COVID program. From 2015 – 2019, Dr. Herman served as a support group leader for the Tourette Association of America for families in the Pacific Northwest and is a proud parent of a TAA youth ambassador.

Online Support Groups for Young Adults (18-25)

Online Support Groups for Young Adults (ages 18-25) are made possible in cooperation with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These support groups are available for people who may be in underserved areas with limited access to resources and support.

Mas Voices: Hispanic Young Adults with Tourette Syndrome

Audience: Young Adults 18-25, who have a diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome or another Tic Disorder and identify as Hispanic.

Description: In this group you will experience a safe space where you can access support and resources that are specific to the Hispanic community. Join other Hispanic young adults as we explore resources, share our stories, and support one another.

Session Dates, Times & Topics

Session 1: January 13, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST
Topic: Introductions/Overview of Tourette Syndrome

Session 2: January 27, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST
Topic: Workplace and Academic Setting Considerations

Session 3: February 10, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST
Topic: Navigating the Healthcare System

Session 4: February 24, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST
Topic: Family and Community Ties

Session 5: March 10, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST
Topic: Microaggressions/Macroaggressions and Assumptions

Session 6: March 24, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST
Topic: Advocacy

Facilitated by Tanya Alvarado, MA, LMHC & Finn Kornele

Tanya Alvarado is a mental health counselor with over 13 years of experience and is the owner of A New Path Counseling. Her passion and purpose is to work with children, adolescents, young adults, and neurodivergent adults. Tanya is no stranger to Tourette Syndrome as she has family members who were diagnosed with the disorder. When she is not in session with clients, you can find her with a hot cup of coffee in her hand, working out, or sticking her nose in a good book. She has been married to her husband for 13 years and they have two amazing and energetic children.

Finn Kornele is 20 years old and is born and raised in Niceville, FL. They have been advocating for TS since they were diagnosed in 2020 and trained as a TAA Rising Leader in 2023. They advocate specifically for those with TS who feel underrepresented and discriminated more heavily against. As the only Hispanic and LGBTQ+ person in their immediate family, they understand what it is like to feel spoken over and disregarded and hope to connect with others who feel the same way.

African American & Black Young Adult Support Group

TS Is Me: An African American & Black Young Adult Support Group with Tonya Thomas and Obed West

Audience: Young adults, ages 18-25, that identify as Black or African American and have a diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome or another Tic Disorder.

Description: This support group is designed for Black, African American individuals, and those having origins in any region within the African diaspora, who have Tourette Syndrome (TS). This support group offers a series of specialized workshops tailored to the unique experiences often shared by this marginalized population. Participants will explore the complex dynamics of experiencing both macro and microaggressions and discuss how these forms of discrimination intersect with race and TS. The workshops aim to provide tools and strategies for managing these experiences, fostering resilience, and self-advocacy.

One workshop will focus on work readiness, including preparing for job searches, interviews, and workplace integration while managing TS symptoms. We provide practical advice on disclosing TS to employers, understanding workplace rights under the ADA, and developing effective communication strategies to advocate for necessary accommodations. Additionally, understanding behaviors and navigating relationships are crucial areas of focus. Participants will learn techniques for building and maintaining healthy relationships, managing social interactions, and understanding how TS might affect their perceptions in different contexts.

By covering these areas and others, our support group sessions and workshops empower individuals with TS to build confidence, resilience, and a supportive network as they navigate the complexities of the workplace, personal relationships, and broader societal interactions.

Session Dates, Times & Topics

Session 1: January 14, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic: Welcome and Introductions

Session 2: January 28, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic: TS 101 Overview/Discussion

Session 3: February 11, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic: Macroaggression/Microaggressions & Assumptions

Session 4: February 25, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic: Workshop: Group Attendees Selected Topic

Session 5: March 11, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic: Work Readiness and Disclosure/ADA Laws

Session 6: March 25, 2025 at 8-9:30 PM EST – Topic: Group Attendees Selected Topic

Facilitated by Tonya Thomas & Obed West

Tonya Thomas, LMSW served as Director of Programs with the TAA and has her master’s degree in social work from Fordham University. Prior to the TAA, Tonya was a program officer with the Long Island Community Foundation – a subsidiary of the New York Community Trust. She supported the Foundation’s competitive grantmaking by advocating for community organizations and projects that improved the quality of life for all Long Islanders. Tonya also worked on special initiatives that bring about much needed social change.

Prior to LICF, as the Director of Partnership Development and Programming, Tonya helped develop, launch, and market the pilot of the First-Year Community Engagement Program at SUNY College at Old Westbury. She helped create an award winning, uniquely collaborative, course-embedded, community-based learning program where she set up MOU’s and engaged over 60 non-profit partner organizations and government agencies on Long Island and the Metropolitan area.

Tonya also worked in the Entertainment industry for over 13 years, she spent the first few years of her career working for television shows like Entertainment Tonight and The Jane Whitney Show. Tonya also worked as a researcher and producer for various talk show hosts – Tom Bergeron, Rolonda Watts, and Montel Williams. Tonya also worked in the Film Marketing Department at Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, where she, as the Marketing Research Manager, managed the film marketing research for all studio films released nationally.

Tonya enjoys reading, watching movies, volunteering, and working with teens. She is currently a member of the Long Island Chapter, The Links, Inc., an Associate member of the Nassau County Chapter of Jack and Jill and serves on the board of the Rockville Center Education Foundation. Tonya lives on Long Island with her husband and two daughters.

Obed West is 18 years old and has Tourette Syndrome. He currently lives in Akron, Ohio and is a recent graduate of Archbishop Hoban High School. He has been to the Junior Olympics nine times for shot put, discus, and javelin. Obed will attend college in this fall and plans to major in psychology, play football, and compete in track and field.

Obed’s journey with Tourette started when he was in kindergarten, but he was not diagnosed until his sophomore year of high school. When he was in elementary school, he noticed that he was not performing as well as the other students. He felt like the other students in his classes were more advanced. This was very frustrating. He always moved his shoulder, rapidly blinked his eyes, and had a cough that came from nowhere. Now, he understands those were his tics.

Through Obed’s journey with Tourette Syndrome, he developed a passion for helping others with Tourette. He is currently a Rising Leader with the Tourette Association of America (TAA) and had the honor of advocating on Capitol Hill with the TAA.

Obed is excited to help educate and advocate for himself and others with Tourette Syndrome.

Young Adult Support Group

Audience: Young adults, ages 18-25, who have a diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome or another Tic Disorder.

Description: This group is intended to bring together young adults within the TS and Tic Disorder community and provide access to support and resources they may be looking for. Additionally, Young Adults will be able to share their experiences living with the condition and support one another.

Session Dates, Times & Topics

Session 1: January 8, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST – Topic: Relationships and Dating

Session 2: January 22, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST – Topic: Co-Occurring Conditions

Session 3: February 5, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST – Topic: Positive Attributes and Common Challenges of TS

Session 4: February 19, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST – Topic: Managing Stress and Anxiety

Session 5: March 5, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST – Topic: Tourette Syndrome and Social Media

Session 6: March 19, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST– Topic: Advocacy at home, work, school and in the community

Facilitated by Dr. Debi Hinerfeld & Megan Hurley

Dr. Debi Hinerfeld, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA has been an occupational therapist for 30 years, working with children, adolescents, and adults, in private practice, in schools, and in hospital settings. She is certified in Comprehensive Behavioral Interventions for Tics (CBIT) and has undergone post professional training and certification in sensory integration evaluation and intervention. Debi completed her doctorate in Health Sciences with a focus in Healthcare Administration in June 2017 and has taught at two graduate level occupational therapy programs in Atlanta, Georgia. During the summers of 2016 and 2017, Debi greatly enjoyed serving as a member of the support staff to campers at Camp Twitch and Shout in Winder Georgia, a one-week summer camp for kids who have tics. It was here that she discovered the remarkable spirits of kids and young adults with tic disorders and the personal, functional, and societal challenges that they face daily.

As an occupational therapist certified in CBIT, Debi utilizes her unique OT perspective that considers the whole person and the challenges of engagement and performance in meaningful activities that a person needs and wants to do. Debi enjoys using a collaborative, function-based approach with each of her clients that promotes participation and independence, allowing each person to integrate new strategies to live life to its fullest.

Personally, Debi has been married to her husband Alex for 25 years and has a 21-year-old daughter, Madelyn, who is a graduate student at the University of Georgia. She also has two rescue dogs, a Goldendoodle and a Great Pyrenees.

Megan Hurley is a 2024 Rising Leader for the Tourette Association of America and a school psychology intern in the Kentucky public school system. After her internship, she will graduate with her Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) Degree in School Psychology from the University of Kentucky, where she received her Master of Science in Educational Psychology. During her undergraduate, Megan was a camp counselor for two summers at Camp Twitch and Shout, a camp for children with Tourette Syndrome (TS). After graduation, she taught English for two years in Spain and later worked with college-age students as a residence life graduate assistant.

As someone with TS, Megan is passionate about using her roles as a Tourette Association volunteer and school psychologist to expand individual’s perceptions of people with Tourette Syndrome and clarify common misconceptions. As a TAA Rising Leader, Megan led a team from Kentucky to discuss TS policy with members of Congress and their staff, gave a workplace presentation, was interviewed by the local news, and shared information through social media. She plans to expand her education and advocacy by working directly with education professionals.

LGBTQ+ TS Support Group

Audience: Young Adults 18-25, who have a diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome or another Tic Disorder and identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community.

Description: What does it mean to be queer with Tourette? This group is intended to provide young adults with TS and other Tic Disorders a safe space to discuss the intricacies of what it means to have TS and be a part of the LGBTQ+ community. We’ll talk about finding joy and strength in uniqueness while also exploring the intersection of the identities of having Tourette and being queer.

Session Dates, Times & Topics

Session 1: January 8, 2025 at 6:30-8 PM EST – Topic: Welcome and Introductions

Session 2: January 22, 2025 at 6:30-8 PM EST – Topic: College and Work

Session 3: February 5, 2025 at 6:30-8 PM EST – Topic: Relationships and Dating

Session 4: February 19, 2025 at 6:30-8 PM EST – Topic: Family and Community Ties

Session 5: March 5, 2025 at 6:30-8 PM EST – Topic: Online Gaming and Social Media

Session 6: March 19, 2025 at 6:30-8 PM EST – Topic: Queer & Tourette: Think BIG and plan for the future

Facilitated by Sarah Nadeau & Max Charney

Sarah Nadeau, M.S., LMFT is a psychotherapist who works with children, teens, and adults. She is also a lecturer in clinical psychology at San Jose State University. She has been working with people with Tourette Syndrome since 2019 utilizing CBIT and other interventions to manage their tics in ways that work well with their preferences, values, and lifestyles. Sarah specializes in working with people who are experiencing anxiety, OCD, trauma, and gender exploration. In her spare time, She enjoys trail running, traveling, and spending time with her dogs.

Maximus Charney is a TAA Rising Leader and previous Youth Ambassador with TS. Max identifies as part of the transgender community and has spoken on this subject as a past TAA panelist. Max is very involved with the Southern California TAA, becoming the youngest peer mentor and support group facilitator for the chapter. He also has presented on advocacy at the 2024 TIC-CON.

Online Support Groups for Adults (26+)

Adult Online Support Groups are provided by the TAA and facilitators who have graciously donated their time to support our community.

Adult Online Support Group - FULL

Audience: Adults (26 years or older) who have a diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome or another Tic Disorder.

Description: This virtual group is designed to bring together adults (26+ years old) with Tourette Syndrome or another Tic Disorder to provide support & a sense of community. Participants will be able to share their lived experiences as an adult with TS or another Tic Disorder and will receive access to helpful information & resources.

Session Dates, Times, & Topics

Session 1: Jan 9, 2025 – Introductions/Welcome – Self-acceptance

Session 2: Jan 23, 2025 –
Self-advocacy/Disclosure

Session 3: Feb 6, 2025 – Tics & Employment

Session 4: Feb 20, 2025 – Managing Tics & Co-occurring Conditions

Session 5: Mar 6, 2025 – Navigating Relationships – Family, Friends & Romantic Partnerships

Session 6: Mar 20, 2025 – Other Challenges

Facilitated by Charles E. Galyon & Darin M. Bush

Charles E. Galyon, PhD is a Licensed Psychologist and co-owner of Knoxville Behavioral and Mental Health Services. He serves as co-chair of the OCD Training Committee for the Association of Contextual Behavioral Sciences and is an active member of a statewide professional group out of Vanderbilt University Medical School for the Center of Excellence for Tourette’s Syndrome.

In practice, Dr. Galyon works primarily with children, teenagers, and their families to address concerns related to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Tourette’s and Tic Disorders, Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Galyon also has lived experience as an individual with Tourette’s and a parent of a child with Tourette’s. Dr. Galyon has a background in behavior analysis, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). He continues to develop professional trainings and materials to help professionals in working compulsive behavioral disorders (including Tourette’s, OCD, BFRB’s, and FND). He is an active member of the Association of Contextual Behavioral Sciences, the Panera Unlimited Sips Club, and the Knoxville Area Psychological Association. Dr. Galyon also likes cookies and philosophy.

The Tourette Tiger, aka Darin M. Bush, has worked with the Tourette’s syndrome (TS) community in various roles for 30 years. He has tutored, lectured, taught classes, run workshops, led panels, and facilitated support groups. He has worked with the Tourette’s associations of the United States and Canada. He has also written short stories & jokes, invented words, designed t-shirts, created theories, and blogged about TS and its comorbid disorders. He has several neurological disorders, including the “big three” of TS, ADHD, and OCD. He also has sensory, handwriting, and reading problems, as well as a strange learning disability (LD) that he loves to discuss. He passed some of this on to his daughter. He worked full-time at Parkaire Consultants–a clinic with expertise in treating LD and neurological disorders. He worked as an academic tutor, specializing in teaching math and science to children with LD, ADHD, & OCD. He also developed and taught a class for educators on teaching math to special education children. He contributed to the textbook Teaching the Tiger and its sequel, Tigers, Too. During this time, he served on the board of directors for the Tourette’s Syndrome Association of Georgia. Darin led several peer support groups for adults with or parents of neurological disorders.

In 2009, he published Tiger Trails: An Unconventional Introduction to Tourette’s Syndrome, in an attempt to organize the vocabulary used with TS and everything that can go with it, especially OCD and ADHD. He describes this handbook, intended to be shared with family, friends, and co-workers, as “the words for the first 90 minutes of the TS conversation”. He currently co-leads an ADHD adult peer support group through Parkaire Consultants and participates in a Tourette’s peer support group that aspires to become a TAA chapter. Darin is also a published genre fiction author and speaks at sci-fi and fantasy conventions including DragonCon. He lives close to Atlanta, GA, with his wife and two very yappy dogs.

Women with TS Online Support Group - FULL

Audience: Adults (26 years or older) who have a diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome or another Tic Disorder and identify as female.

Description: This virtual support group aims to serve as a safe space for women with tics to meet and discuss topics that are unique to the female experience. This group is inclusive of all individuals who identify with the female experience. Participants can expect to receive support from others with tics, access to helpful information and resources, and an opportunity to share their story.

Session Dates, Times, & Topics

Session 1: Jan 16, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST
Topic: Centering Our Experiences as Women with Tourette

Session 2: Jan 30, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST
Topic: Education & Workplace

Session 3: Feb 13, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST
Topic: Dealing with Tics in Public

Session 4: Feb 27, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST
Topic: Dating & Romantic Relationships

Session 5: March 13, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST
Topic: Hormones & Tics – What’s Your Experience?

Session 6: March 27, 2025 at 7-8:30 PM EST
Topic: Parenting, Family, & Friends

Facilitated by Ellie Jarvie & Jackie Nau

Ellie Jarvie, MSW, LCSW, has been involved in support and advocacy efforts since she was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome in her teens, including leadership positions with the Wisconsin Association and various task force efforts at the TAA. She is currently a member of the Mn Tic patient advisory board. As someone who had very noticeable symptoms from junior high through her early 30s, Ellie found that educating other about Tourette was a key accommodation for her success in school and in the workplace. Ellie has extensive experience in community mental health programs, working both as a case manager and in supervisory roles. She provided respite care and was a foster parent for over twenty youth and is an adoptive parent. Ellie currently works as an advocacy specialist for Disability Rights Wisconsin. When she is not working, Ellie enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, running, or swimming.

Jackie Nau has lived with TS, OCD, ADHD, and anxiety for over 50 years. She is a former project coordinator for the LEND program at the University of Iowa Center for Disabilities and Development. Ms. Nau speaks about living with TS and co-occurring conditions at schools and colleges. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Arc of East Central Iowa and helped develop the TAA’s Adult Task Force.

For Myself

For Someone I Know

Through My Profession

For Myself

For Someone I Know

Through My Profession