Case Study 190 – Preparing an 11-year-old boy who struggles with involuntary tics for a hypnotherapy session

Preparing an 11-year-old boy who struggles with involuntary tics for a hypnotherapy session is mostly about helping him feel safe, calm, and not “different” or pressured to perform.

Children with tic disorders or conditions such as Tourette Syndrome often become more relaxed when they know they are not being judged and that they cannot “fail” hypnosis.

Here are practical ways to prepare him:

Before the Session

Explain hypnotherapy in simple language:

“It’s a relaxing way to help your brain and body feel calmer.”

“You stay awake and in control the whole time.”

“Nobody can make you do anything you don’t want to do.”

Avoid saying:

“This will stop your tics.”

“You must try hard.”

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Pressure can increase anxiety and sometimes worsen tics.

Let him know:

Tics are allowed during the session.

The therapist expects them and will not be bothered by them.

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On the Day of the Session

Make sure he:

Gets enough sleep the night before.

Eats a light meal beforehand.

Avoids too much sugar or caffeine.

Wears comfortable clothes.

Arrive early so he is not rushed or stressed.

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Emotionally Preparing Him

Ask gentle questions like:

“What makes your body feel calm?”

“What worries you most about the tics?”

“What would you like to feel more of — confidence, calm, focus, sleep?”

This helps the therapist understand his emotional world without making him feel “broken.”

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Helpful Things to Tell Him

You can say:

“Your body is not bad.”

“Your brain is just very active and sensitive.”

“Lots of children have things their body does automatically.”

“This is about helping you feel stronger and calmer.”

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What Parents Should Avoid

Constantly pointing out the tics.

Telling him to “stop.”

Watching him anxiously during the session.

Expecting instant results after one appointment.

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Helpful Additions Alongside Hypnotherapy

Many children benefit from combining hypnotherapy with:

Relaxation breathing

Exercise

Good sleep routines

Reduced stress at school/home

Professional support from a pediatrician, psychologist, or neurologist if needed

A calm, accepting environment often helps more than trying to “control” the tics directly.