The mother of a 9-year-old boy explains to the PMHNP that he has a 6-month history of excessive eye blinking and grunting, and he recently began persistently clearing his throat. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Choice A reason: Temporary tic disorder typically resolves within a few weeks or months; this child has had symptoms for six months, which is beyond the typical duration for transient tics. Choice B reason: Tourette's disorder requires both multiple motor tics and at least one vocal tic for more than one year. The patient’s history suggests only vocal tics with some motor tics, not meeting full criteria. Choice C reason: Persistent (chronic) vocal tic disorder is characterized by vocal tics present for more than one year without multiple motor tics, consistent with this child’s presentation. Choice D reason: Provisional tic disorder lasts less than one year, which does not match the six-month history in the context of ongoing symptoms that may persist longer.