Sleep Difficulties

 
 

How can Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-i) help improve sleep?

What Is Insomnia?

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that affects your ability to fall asleep, stay asleep, or wake feeling rested. It may be short-term or chronic, and it can have a significant impact on your mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing.

You may be experiencing insomnia if you:

  • Have difficulty falling asleep even when tired

  • Wake during the night or too early in the morning

  • Lie awake for long periods

  • Feel tired, foggy, or irritable during the day

  • Struggle with focus, mood, or motivation due to poor sleep

Left untreated, insomnia can contribute to or worsen anxiety, depression, and other health concerns.

How Can CBT-i Help?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-i) is the gold-standard, evidence-based treatment for chronic insomnia. Unlike sleeping pills, which may provide temporary relief, CBT-i targets key underlying causes of poor sleep—both behavioural and psychological.

CBT-i assists people with sleep difficulties to:

  • Fall asleep faster

  • Stay asleep longer

  • Wake up feeling more rested

  • Reduce dependence on medication

It can be effective even when insomnia occurs alongside other conditions like anxiety and depression.

What to Expect from CBT-I

CBT-I is a short-term, structured therapy tailored to your unique sleep patterns. Typically delivered over 6 sessions, it includes:

  • Education – Learn how sleep works and what disrupts it

  • Sleep Scheduling – Reset your body clock with a consistent routine

  • Stimulus Control – Rebuild the connection between bed and sleep

  • Cognitive Techniques – Address worry, overthinking, and nighttime anxiety

  • Sleep Hygiene – Improve daily habits and sleep environment

  • Relaxation Strategies – Calm your body and mind before bedtime

CBT-i empowers you with practical tools to take control of your sleep naturally and sustainably.

Medicare Rebates Available

Insomnia is eligible for treatment under a Mental Health Care Plan. If you are referred by a GP or psychiatrist under a valid referral, you may be entitled to Medicare rebates for sessions with a clinical psychologist.

Discuss your sleep difficulties with your GP to determine if CBT-i is appropriate for you and request a referral.

Start Sleeping Better

Sessions are available in Camberwell, Kew East, and via Telehealth.

Take the first step toward better sleep today. CBT-i offers lasting, medication-free relief from insomnia.