Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)

The gold-standard, non-medication approach for improving chronic sleep difficulties.

Better Sleep Begins Here

CBT-I helps retrain your mind and body for deeper, more consistent rest without relying on medication.

Best for

Chronic insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, waking during the night, early waking.

Session format

 Individual or Group, In person or Virtual.

Typical cadence

Weekly, Session length: 45–60 minutes.

Often combined with

Sleep hygiene coaching, relaxation training, mindfulness, medication management if needed.

Evidence base

 Endorsed by the American College of Physicians as the first-line treatment for insomnia.

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What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is a structured, evidence-based treatment that targets the thoughts, habits, and patterns that interfere with healthy sleep. Unlike sleep medications, which may offer temporary relief, CBT-I teaches long-lasting skills that naturally improve sleep quality.

Sessions help clients identify unhelpful sleep behaviors, reduce anxiety around sleep, and reset the body’s internal sleep-wake rhythm using proven techniques such as stimulus control and sleep restriction. With practice, individuals build confidence in their ability to fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake feeling rested.

How Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia Helps in Recovery

Targeted Support for deeper rest, calmer nights, and improved wellbeing

Improves sleep quality

Improves sleep quality

Promotes deeper, more restful sleep

Reduces anxiety around sleep

Reduces anxiety around sleep

Breaks the cycle of stress and sleeplessness

Supports overall recovery

Supports overall recovery

Better sleep strengthens mental health and relapse prevention

Provides lasting benefits

Provides lasting benefits

Skills remain useful long after therapy ends

What to Expect in Sessions

CBT-I typically lasts 6–10 sessions. Early sessions involve keeping a sleep diary to track habits and identify triggers. Therapists then guide clients through evidence-based strategies such as:

  • Stimulus control: Creating strong associations between bed and sleep only
  • Sleep restriction: Limiting time in bed to strengthen natural sleep drive
  • Cognitive restructuring: Challenging unhelpful beliefs (“I’ll never sleep”)
  • Relaxation training: Breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation

Clients practice new sleep strategies between sessions, building healthier patterns week by week.

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Who Benefits from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia? (CBT-I)

Support for Individuals Struggling With Chronic Sleep Difficulties

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for insomnia is one of the most effective, evidence-based treatments for improving sleep quality. It helps individuals break long-standing sleep patterns, reduce nighttime anxiety, and build healthier, more restorative routines, without relying on long-term medication.

Support for Adults and Teens with Insomnia

Support for Adults and Teens with Insomnia

Adults and teens with chronic insomnia (trouble falling or staying asleep)

Safe Alternatives to Sleep Medications

Safe Alternatives to Sleep Medications

People who rely on sleep medications and want non-drug alternatives

Stable and Restorative Rest in Recovery

Stable and Restorative Rest in Recovery

Individuals in recovery who need stable, restorative rest

Managing Stress, Anxiety, and Sleep Issues

Managing Stress, Anxiety, and Sleep Issues

Those with stress, anxiety, or depression that worsen sleep

A Safe and Proven Sleep Approach

A Safe and Proven Sleep Approach

Anyone seeking a safe, proven approach to better sleep

Why TruPaths Highlights Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)

Promoting Restful Sleep as a Foundation for Healing

TruPaths highlights Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for insomnia because restful sleep is essential for recovery. Quality sleep supports the brain, reduces stress and cravings, and stabilizes mood. The programs we feature integrate CBT-I into broader treatment plans, combining therapy, holistic care, and medical support, to promote whole-person wellness and sustained healing.

FAQs About Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)

Yes. Research shows CBT-I works as well as, or better than, medications—and the results last longer.
Yes. Some people use CBT-I alongside medication, then reduce reliance on medication over time.
Many people notice improvements within 2–4 weeks, with continued progress through the full course.
Often, yes. CBT-I is covered as a psychotherapy service. TruPaths providers list accepted insurance and financial options.
Yes. CBT-I is effective for both recent and long-standing insomnia.
Yes, CBT-I teaches techniques that reduce nighttime worry and racing thoughts to help you sleep better.

Find Recovery Options Offering CBT-I

Better sleep is possible. If insomnia affects your recovery or daily life, CBT-I offers a proven, medication-free path to restful nights.

About TruPath's Recommendations

Recommendations are based on your location and recovery needs, including the programs you've explored, the services you've saved, and the filters you've used. We use this information to highlight similar treatment options so you never miss a trusted path forward.

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