Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder and while 13% of Canadians suffer from this, it typically remains untreated. Chronic insomnia has been associated with anxiety, depression, high blood pressure and diabetes. It can also affect concentration, performance and chronic pain. Sleep Physicians and Behavioural Sleep Therapists are the most qualified to treat insomnia because of their training in sleep disorders and the science of sleep.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is the most effective first-line treatment for chronic insomnia. It is also an excellent alternative for patients who wish to treat their trouble sleeping at night without sleep medication, and for those who wish to taper off or reduce their sleep medication. It guides patients in identifying and replacing thoughts and behaviors that contribute to insomnia with effective strategies to optimize sleep. This helps patients regain confidence in sleeping, and to re-frames sleep issues in a constructive way. CBT-I considers your internal biological clock and aims to align bed time and rise time with this clock when possible, which may involve properly timed exposure to bright light. Most patients respond to treatment in 2-6 sessions, and both group or individual treatments are effective.
CBT-I is more effective than sleeping pill use alone and it is important for the long-term management of insomnia. It can be used in patients with co-morbid conditions such as depression, anxiety, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, substance abuse, and PTSD. Unlike pills, CBT-I addresses the underlying causes of insomnia.
Our Approach at CSHP
Dr. Katherine Rasmussen ND, B.Ed., BA, Director of Behavioral Sleep Medicine at CSHP provides expert care and collaborates with Dr. Charles Samuels, Medical Director and CSHP physicians to support an interdisciplinary approach to the diagnosis, management and treatment of insomnia for adolescents and adults.
Our CBT-I program is individualized and patient-centred. The most impactful causes of your insomnia are identified, and goals are reviewed regularly. Our program consists of 2 to 6, 45-minute sessions with the Behavioural Sleep Therapist over 2-4 weeks and is covered by Alberta Health and Wellness, at no cost to the patient. The timing of your appointments is adjusted based on your progress and the program is extended if necessary to ensure you attain the benefit, success and confidence you need in managing your sleep, so you can focus on living a full life and enjoy restful sleep.
Visit our website for additional referral info, www.centreforsleep.com.
CENTRE FOR SLEEP & HUMAN PERFORMANCE
Suite 106, 51 Sunpark Drive SE
Calgary, Alberta, T2X 3V4
403 254 6663 ext 1
www.centreforsleep.com
