Abstract
Tourette Syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary motor and vocal
tics. There is currently no known cure for Tourette Syndrome. Though there are
medications available to reduce tics caused by Tourette Syndrome, these medications often
have negative side effects. Therapy is often recommended for individuals with Tourette
Syndrome who are having trouble coping with feelings of rejection and embarrassment.
Creativity has been neurologically linked to tics caused by Tourette Syndrome. There have
also been documented claims that engaging in a creative act reduces the frequency and
severity of tics. However, to date, there is no professional literature exploring the use of art
therapy and Tourette Syndrome. Using a heuristic design, the researcher measured the
effects of the art process on the severity and frequency of motor and vocal tics caused by
Tourette Syndrome. Six different components of the Expressive Therapies Continuum were
focused on during the art-making.
