Combining fNIRS Neurofeedback Training with Psychotherapy Techniques to Reduce Tic Severity: A Longitudinal Case Study

I. Executive Summary

This case study investigates the potential effectiveness of a combined approach using fNIRS neurofeedback training and self-guided psychotherapy to reduce tic severity in an adult diagnosed with a tic disorder. Over a 6-month period, the participant will engage in daily neurofeedback training sessions and self-facilitated psychotherapy. Results will be assessed using the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) and the participant’s performance in a neurofeedback app.

II. Introduction and Literature Review

Tic disorders, including Tourette’s Syndrome, are characterized by sudden, rapid, repetitive, and involuntary movements or vocalizations. Current research suggests that neurofeedback training and psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), habit reversal training (HRT), and exposure and response prevention (ERP), can be effective in reducing tic severity. This case study explores the potential benefits of combining these approaches and their impact on an individual’s quality of life.

III. Subject Profile

The participant is me. I’m a 29-year-old male diagnosed with a tic disorder. I have a history of mild to severe motor tics and minor vocal tics. I have no prior experience with neurofeedback training or psychotherapy for my condition. The patient’s medical and psychiatric history is unremarkable, or if it is- oh well. I have comorbid ADHD, which is the most common TS comorbidity. Relevant sociodemographic factors, such as occupation and family background, will also be considered during the course of the study.

IV. Methodology

A. Measures

•fNIRS Headband ⚡

•The Ball Game App ⚽

•Tics Severity Assessment (YGTSS) 😜

B. Procedure

Baseline Assessment 📋

Psychotherapy 💭

fNIRS Neurofeedback Training 🧠

Progress Monitoring 📋

C. Controls

Standardization 📐

Adherence to Psychotherapy Strategies ⚖️

Data Analysis 📈

V. Results

The results section will describe the participant’s progress throughout the study. This includes my performance in The Ball Game, which will be evaluated daily and analyzed weekly. Additionally, YGTSS assessments will be conducted weekly to monitor changes in tic severity.

VI. Discussion

In this section, the case study will interpret the results and discuss the implications of the combined intervention for the treatment of tic disorders. The limitations of the case study, such as the single-subject design and potential confounding variables will be addressed. Furthermore, suggestions for future research, including larger sample sizes and the incorporation of control groups, will be proposed.

VII. Ethical Considerations

The study will adhere to ethical guidelines for research involving human subjects. Informed consent will be obtained from myself, and my confidentiality will be protected throughout the study. The potential risks and benefits of the combined intervention will be discussed with my cat before the study commences.

VIII. Data Analysis Plan

The case study will employ appropriate statistical techniques and methods to analyze the data and assess the effectiveness of the combined intervention. This may include descriptive statistics, repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), or mixed-effects models to examine the relationship between neurofeedback training, psychotherapy, and changes in tic severity.

IX. Conclusion

The conclusion will summarize the key findings and their significance in the context of tic disorder treatment. The potential benefits and limitations of combining fNIRS neurofeedback training with psychotherapy techniques will be discussed, and the implications for the development of guided, effective treatments for individuals with tic disorders will be considered.