Rationale: Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses electromagnetic fields to alter brain activity. It has shown benefits in psychiatric conditions like major depressive disorder, mainly in adults. Evidence shows that rTMS can help reduce Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms in adults, and some small studies suggest it may reduce tics in Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS). Both start often before the age of 18 and negatively impact quality of life. Standard treatment involves psychotherapy and medication, but for many people these are only partly or not effective or they cannot tolerate side effects. Research on rTMS in children and adolescents is limited. This study aims to explore the use of rTMS as an add-on treatment for adolescents with OCD and/or GTS.
Objective: This study will assess the feasibility and acceptability of adding rTMS to standard treatment for adolescents with OCD and/or GTS. It will also examine its effects on OCD and GTS symptoms.
Study Design: A qualitative study with a single-case experimental design (SCED) consisting of three phases: baseline, intervention, and follow-up.
Study Population: 8 children aged 12–18 years with OCD and/or GTS.
Intervention: In the intervention phase, rTMS will be added to standard treatment, which includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), possible medication, and group therapies (art, music, psychomotor).
Main Study Parameters: The main outcome will be the feasibility of adding rTMS to standard treatment, measured by obstacles, side effects, and drop-out rates.