Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Insomnia (CBTi) is an evidence based therapy to help people fall asleep quicker and stay asleep while in bed.
Typical Components of CBTi
- Sleep scheduling
- Worry management
- Stimulus control
- Sleep hygiene
CBTi can be effective for primary insomnia, and for insomnia secondary to anxiety or depression. The approach can be utilized during or after other CBT interventions for anxiety or depression, and may help to prevent the re-occurrence of depression. CBTi reduces barriers that may be interfering with the body’s natural feedback loops for regulating sleep - homeostatic pressure and circadian rhythm entrainment.
Advantages of CBTi
- Short term intervention
- Non- pharmacological
- Safe for most people
As with all therapies, successful implementation begins with assessment, and selection of specific interventions based upon the client's needs. The therapy can be completed within a few weeks, with an additional follow-up period for observation and problem solving as needed.
Authored by Jim Carter, Ph.D.
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