An open letter to the psychotherapy and counselling profession

It is time to recognise the politics of training and practising with Tourette's syndrome

Abstract

In this Note from the Front Line, a psychotherapist and counsellor writes an open letter to the counselling and psychotherapy professions, asking for recognition of the politics involved in practising as a therapist with Tourette's syndrome. The letter discusses her lived experience of the condition, including the experience of judgement and stigma she has faced from others in the profession, and asks how therapists can approach this issue and be better informed. Common misconceptions surrounding Tourette's syndrome are also addressed, and the author asks that therapists take better care not to perpetuate them. A call is made to recognise the politics involved and to advocate for a better understanding of neurodiversity to improve equality and diversity within the profession.