CBT For Sleep and Insomnia

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Sleep and Insomnia

Sleep is essential for physical health, emotional well-being, and daily functioning. Yet, millions of people struggle with insomnia, experiencing difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling unrefreshed. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is a highly effective, evidence-based approach that helps address the root causes of sleep difficulties.

What is CBT for Sleep?

CBT for sleep is a structured, short-term therapy that combines cognitive and behavioural techniques to improve sleep quality. Unlike sleep medications, CBT-I targets the underlying patterns that interfere with rest, empowering individuals to develop long-lasting healthy sleep habits.

How CBT Helps with Insomnia

Insomnia is often maintained by a combination of anxious or negative thoughts about sleep and habits that unintentionally disrupt rest. CBT-I tackles both aspects to create lasting improvements.

Cognitive Techniques

  • Identifying negative thoughts about sleep (e.g., “I’ll never fall asleep”)

  • Challenging unhelpful beliefs that increase anxiety around bedtime

  • Reducing worry and rumination that prevent relaxation

 

Behavioural Techniques

  • Sleep restriction to consolidate sleep and improve sleep efficiency

  • Stimulus control to strengthen the association between bed and sleep

  • Relaxation exercises such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation

  • Sleep hygiene education, including managing caffeine, screen time, and bedtime routines

 

Benefits of CBT for Sleep

  • Improves sleep onset and maintenance

  • Reduces nighttime anxiety and racing thoughts

  • Enhances daytime energy and mood

  • Provides sustainable strategies without medication

 

Who Can Benefit?

CBT-I is suitable for adults experiencing short-term or chronic insomnia, and it is often recommended for individuals whose sleep problems are linked to stress, anxiety, depression, or lifestyle factors. It is safe, non-invasive, and backed by strong research evidence.

How can we help?

Contact us to see how we can best assist you with your difficulties.

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