Location: Nashville Marriott at Vanderbilt University
2555 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203
Date & Time: June 12, 2026, 10:00am – 4:00pm Central Time
To attend this exciting event, teens between the ages of 13 and 17 must submit an application. Applications are due Wednesday, April 22, 2026.
The Tourette Association of America’s Teen Summit is a unique opportunity for teens ages 13–17 with Tourette Syndrome and other Tic Disorders to connect with peers from across the country, build confidence, and strengthen self-advocacy skills. Through interactive sessions, group discussions, and engaging activities, participants will explore topics that matter most to them while gaining tools to navigate school, relationships, and everyday life in a supportive and empowering environment.
Teen Summit Schedule
Friday, June 12, 2026
10:00am – 11:00am: Lesson 1
11:00am – 11:15am: Break
11:15am – 12:15pm: Lesson 2
12:15pm – 1:15pm: Lunch
1:15pm – 2:15pm: Lesson 3
2:15pm – 2:30pm: Break
2:30pm – 3:30pm: Lesson 4
3:30pm – 4:00pm: Wrap Up and Positive Affirmations
About the Lessons: Designed to foster meaningful social connections among teens impacted by TS or another Tic Disorder, this program offers a supportive space to explore shared experiences. Participants will engage in thoughtful discussions around the challenges of disclosure and acceptance, while building essential self-advocacy skills. The program features step-by-step lessons that guide teens on their personal journey toward self-acceptance and confident self-expression. Expect a dynamic and interactive environment that encourages connection, growth, and empowerment.
The Teen Summit event is available to all accepted applicants, free of charge. Teen Summit attendees will have the following expenses covered by the TAA:
- Up to $350 per person for travel reimbursement (for the teen AND parent/adult guardian)
- One night stay at the Nashville Marriott at Vanderbilt University
The Teen Summit is happening during the TAA’s Annual National Conference, TIC-CON, which takes place June 12-14, 2026, at the Nashville Marriott at Vanderbilt University. Teen Summit attendees are encouraged to extend their stay and purchase tickets to participate in TIC-CON!
Please complete and sign the application, and do not forget to have your parent/guardian sign as well. Applications must be completed by the Teen Summit applicant.
2026 Teen Summit Presenters
Thaila Schug OTD, OTR/L
Thaila has her clinical doctorate in occupational therapy from the University of Florida and primarily works with children, teens, and young adults in Georgia as an outpatient pediatric therapist. She is one of the few occupational therapists certified in Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) and has been involved with the TAA since 2023. Thaila has previously presented on the topic of Tourette for Emerging Practitioners at the AOTA National Conference in 2024 and is working on a qualitative research paper regarding an occupation-based assessment utilized by CBIT-trained OTs. When not at work, Thaila loves Disney, traveling, playing with her dog, and writing children’s books.
Maya Rao
Maya Rao is a student at the University of Maryland. She works with preschool, elementary, and middle school-aged children wile studying to be a teacher. Maya has been advocating for Tourette Syndrome since she was diagnosed in middle school and has enjoyed sharing her story in the hotes of helping others. She is active in the TAA as a Rising Leader, education volunteer, marketing volunteer, social media chair for the Mid-Atlantic Chapter, and has presented at TAA events including TIC-CON and the Tourette National Advocacy Day welcome dinner.
