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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia

What is CBT-I?

Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is a short-term, evidence-based psychotherapy designed to treat insomnia. The cognitive component of your treatment addresses thoughts, feelings, and beliefs about sleep that may negatively impact your ability to fall and stay asleep. The behavioral component addresses dysfunctional sleep patterns and helps retrain your mind and body to be able to sleep when and where you want.

What is insomnia?

Insomnia is a sleep disorder that occurs when you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. People with insomnia may experience effects of poor sleep during the day, such as:

  • Feeling tired
  • Having low energy
  • Experiencing irritability
  • Having difficulty completing tasks
  • Having difficulty with concentration, memory, or attention

Do I need CBT-I?

CBT-I may be a good fit for you if:

  • It takes you longer than 30 minutes to fall asleep.
  • You are awake more than 30 minutes in the middle of the night.
  • You wake up more than 30 minutes earlier than planned.
  • You are dissatisfied with your sleep and your insomnia affects you during the day.
  • You are committed to improving your sleep and willing to change your current sleep patterns.

How long does treatment last?

  • Therapy sessions are typically 45 minutes.
  • You'll be asked to commit to six weekly or bi-weekly therapy sessions.

CBT-I and Medication

CBT-I has proven to be as or more effective in treating insomnia when compared to medication. You don't need to stop taking sleep medication to participate in CBT-I, although many patients choose to significantly reduce or discontinue their medications during or after treatment, with guidance from their prescribing provider.

Ready to improve your sleep and quality of life?

CBT-I can be an effective treatment for insomnia.

Talk with your provider or contact St. Luke's Clinic – Lifestyle Medicine to learn more about CBT-I.