In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Dr. Jeff Lichtman and his son, Jeremy Lichtman, PsyD, for an intimate conversation about parenting a child with Tourette syndrome. Jeff, a renowned psychologist and visionary leader in special education, shares his personal journey of coming to terms with Jeremy's diagnosis and the challenges they faced as a family. Jeremy, now a successful psychologist himself, reflects on growing up with Tourette's and how his parents' unwavering support and advocacy shaped his life. Together, they offer invaluable insights and advice for parents navigating the ups and downs of raising a child with special needs.

Dr. Jeff Lichtman, Director of Student Mental Health Services and Professor at Touro University, is known for his 30 years of visionary leadership at Yachad, the National Jewish Council for Disabilities, and founding the IVDU Schools. As a psychologist, his expertise includes counseling, leadership, social skills development, and teacher training.

Jeremy Lichtman, PsyD, licensed psychologist and director at Central Therapy, specializes in treating youth and adults with emotional dysregulation, PTSD, Tourette syndrome, anxiety disorders, OCD, and trichotillomania. Certified in CBIT and MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD, he provides individual counseling, facilitates groups, and presents workshops for NJCTS.

Episode Highlights:

[2:24] Jeremy's earliest memories of his tics and getting diagnosed with Tourette's.

[6:32] Jeff's perspective as a father seeing his son going through this in middle and high school.

[10:25] The challenges Jeremy faced in school due to his ADHD and hyperactivity.

[15:21] How Jeremy used humor as a powerful tool to educate people about his Tourette's.

[19:16] The shift in focus from social concerns to academic performance in high school.

[24:35] Balancing the needs of siblings when one child requires more specialized support.

[33:44] Jeremy's adult support group for parents of children with Tourette's through NJCTS.

[37:03] Jeremy's appreciation for his parents' support and the importance of utilizing available resources.

[38:46] Jeff's closing advice for parents: have faith in your child's resilience.

Links & Resources:

Jeremy's website - https://www.centraltherapynj.com/

Jeremy's NJCTS parent support group: https://njcts.org/event/todays-challenge-tomorrows-strength-a-support-group-for-parents-of-children-with-tourette-or-tic-disorders-2/?event_date=2024-06-12

Remember, each story shared on this podcast brings light and understanding to the diverse experiences within the Tourette's community. Your journey is your own, and it's filled with potential and promise. If this episode resonated with you, I encourage you to like, share, and leave a review to help us connect with more listeners.

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