Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia & Sleep Anxiety
Sleep Therapy: Insomnia &
Sleep Anxiety Treatment in California
What is Sleep Therapy?
Sleep therapy, also known as cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), is a non-pharmacological approach designed to address sleep disorders and enhance sleep quality. This form of talk therapy helps individuals pinpoint and alter negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to insomnia and other sleep problems. Conducted by trained therapists, either in-person or online, sleep therapy can be customized to tackle specific sleep issues, making it a versatile and effective treatment option for many.
What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is recommended by the American College of Physicians as an initial (first-line) therapy for chronic insomnia. Practitioners trained in behavioral sleep medicine are essential for effectively delivering CBT-I. CBT-I focuses on specific behavioral interventions to eliminate some of your old habits and home environment disruptions that are feeding your sleep disorder. The goal is to quickly identify sleep needs and problematic areas, implement specific changes guided by your therapist, and monitor and track the results until sleep has significantly improved.
Why is this Insomnia Treatment Different?
You may have talked with a therapist about your insomnia in the past and discussed some of the underlying issues contributing to the loss of sleep (anxiety, stress, grief/loss, etc.). While emotional stressors are part of the assessment and ongoing plan, this is not the primary focus for this type of help. CBT-I is much more behaviorally driven, with a specific agenda each week of expectations and anticipated results. Stimulus control therapy is one such behavioral intervention used in CBT-I, aimed at improving sleep by altering unhelpful sleep habits. CBT-I focuses on teaching individuals good sleep habits to enhance sleep quality and daytime alertness. By immediately targeting the problematic sleep patterns and behavior, results tend to be tangible and significant.
How long will it take to sleep better?
While every person is different, the average length of time to treat insomnia with this therapy will be 6-10 sessions, typically meeting weekly. Please keep in mind that your specific plan may require more or less than 6-10 sessions. This doesn’t mean you won’t see improvement before the end of your treatment. A key component in the success is you! If you are willing to actively participate and follow the plan, we can likely make positive changes. You have been suffering for a long time. Let’s work together so you have the opportunity for a significant improvement in your quality of life.