FAQ about the Insomnia Group Program
I have had insomnia for many years and have already tried many different techniques to improve my sleep. Will this group really help my insomnia?
Although we cannot promise 100% improvement, the treatments we offer are very effective. You may have already tried some of the techniques we offer. Nevertheless, the key to success lies in implementing the correct combination of skills that fits the unique manner in which each person experiences insomnia.
Research conducted in the United States and abroad demonstrates that multi-component non-drug treatments for insomnia such as the one we offer, are effective and produce long-lasting benefits. Among patients who have completed our insomnia treatment program, 94% rated being satisfied with the treatment and between two third and three quarters report significant improvement in sleep at night and / or functioning during the day.
Where can I read more about insomnia and the non-drug treatment offered in this program?
A comprehensive article, Insomnia: Risk Factors, Diagnosis, & Treatment, written by the program director is available on Knol.
I’m currently taking sleep medications. Will this be a problem?
No. If you are currently taking sleep medication, you can still benefit from the treatment provided. You are not required to discontinue the medication in order to benefit from the insomnia group or individual treatment. If you wish to get off sleep medication, we can work with you and your physician to help you accomplish this goal. Generally we recommend a slow medication taper to be started only after you have acquired alternative skills and feel ready to begin the taper.
I have insomnia and sleep apnea. Can I still benefit from the Insomnia Program?
Many of our patients have both insomnia and sleep apnea. Although sleep apnea can cause night time awakenings, it is your insomnia, not your apnea that makes it difficult for you to quickly return to sleep. Therefore, for best sleep, one should treat both conditions. Some patients report that they are better able to tolerate Positive Airway Pressure therapy (PAP or CPAP) when their insomnia has also been adequately treated.
What is the age range for your insomnia treatment groups?
The insomnia group treatment is suitable for adults of all ages who have difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, and/or waking up on time. We also offer a group for teen and young adults who have a special type of insomnia, called delayed sleep phase insomnia. Individual treatments are available for infants, children and adolescents.
What if I can’t attend all of the group sessions?
It is strongly recommended that you do not miss any session, as new treatment components are introduced at each session and the benefits are cumulative. As the benefits of these components are cumulative, we believe that you will get the best results if you attend all sessions. However, if you cannot attend a session, you can schedule an individual therapy appointment with your treating doctor if needed. Please note that the fee for an individual session is higher.
How much does this cost and will my insurance plan cover the group sessions?
Insomnia group sessions are billed as group psychotherapy. This clinical service is categorized by insurance companies as mental health or behavioral health service. The type and amount of coverage by health insurance companies varies according to the plan you are enrolled in. Approximately one week before the first group session you will be called by our office staff and informed about the exact amount covered by your insurance plan. Please refer to our Fees page for additional information.
