Quick Therapy Win: How Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia Can Change Your Practice

This presentation is designed to introduce psychologists to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), an evidence-based approach to diagnosing and treating insomnia. The session will begin with an overview of insomnia, discussing its prevalence and the significant impact it can have on patients' quality of life, mental health, and physical health. Participants will learn why proficiency in treating insomnia is a critical skill for psychologists, given the strong correlation between sleep disturbances and various psychological disorders. 

The core of this presentation will focus on the principles and techniques of CBT-I, including stimulus control and sleep restriction. We will discuss the value (and significant limitations) of medications, relaxation, and sleep hygiene. Each component will be explored in detail, providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of how these techniques are applied and how they work to improve sleep patterns and significantly decrease mental health symptomatology.

This training will provide real-life applications and attendees will gain the skills to begin using these techniques in their practice. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of CBT-I and its importance, how and when to apply it in their professional practice, supported by empirical research and practice guidelines.

Participants will be able to:

1. Describe sleep disorders and increase comfort with diagnosis and treatment.
2. Apply the 4 P model.
3. Identify the assessment tools necessary in the treatment of insomnia.
4. Describe a basic CBT-I protocol.