Meetings: This online support group meets Tuesdays from 6:00-7:30 pm EST.
Audience: Parents of children with TS or another Tic Disorder who have been recently diagnosed within the last six months to one year.
Description: This online 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 educational session on the specific topic listed below, followed by group discussion and conversations regarding real-life application, current experiences, and helpful strategies.
Session Dates & Topics:
Session 1: August 6, 2024 – Topic: Introductions & Welcome
Session 2: August 13, 2024 – Topic: Welcome to the Iceberg
Session 3: August 24, 2024 – Topic: Understanding Behaviors in TS
Session 4: August 27, 2024 – Topic: Supporting your Learner
Session 5: September 3, 2024 – Topic: Relationships in TS
Session 6: September 10, 2024 – Topic: Next Steps
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 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 alexandra.walsh@tourette.org. Inability to communicate about my absence may result in potential removal from the group.
Facilitated by Dr. Heather Simpson Martin
Heather Simpson Martin, OTD, OTR/L is an occupational therapist at UF Health Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases in Gainesville, FL. She serves as the Tourette Association Centers of Excellence Coordinator for the Institute. Dr. Simpson Martin has a pediatric specialty from the American Occupational Therapy Association and has been treating both adults and children with TS and Tic Disorders since 2012. Her current focus is occupational therapy management for tic disorders and the use of CBIT to treat tics and improve quality of life. She has participated in multiple small research studies and webinars related to occupational and daily life functioning for those with Tic Disorders.
Dr. Simpson Martin has been allotted opportunities for advocation and training to occupational therapists and other allied health professionals in the management of Tic Disorders, including a chapter in 10 Secrets to a Happier Life with Tourette Syndrome. She currently serves on the TS-BTI faculty for CBIT, helping train allied health professionals in the management of tic disorders around the country.
