loading

For your convenience, we also offer video or telephone sessions. Call Dr. Randy Katz at (416) 515-2649 Ext. 228 for more details.

416-515-2649 Contact Us
Psychological Clinic |   99 and 101 Dupont St. Toronto, ON M5R 1V4
Child & Adolescents Clinic | 107 Dupont St. Toronto, ON M5R 1V4 Phone: 416-515-2649
The Clinic on Dupont Toronto

Insomnia Treatment Toronto

Insomnia refers to difficulties with falling and staying asleep, as well as to sleep that is not experienced as restorative or restful. Affecting between 9% and 12% of the population, chronic insomnia can be a mentally and physically debilitating condition that impacts a person’s social, occupational and family life. Insomnia is also a significant risk factor in the development of anxiety and depression. Though medication is often seen as the primary treatment for insomnia, for many it is only a temporary solution and for others, it can lead to dependency on sleeping pills, which only compounds the problem. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is a proven and efficient means for managing chronic insomnia without the use of sleeping medication. CBT-I works through the scientifically proven principles of stimulus control, conditioned arousal, and sleep drive, and it effectively “re-sets” one’s sleep system, such that falling asleep, staying asleep, and feeling rested all day becomes possible.

Are you looking for help with your insomnia? Our Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) professionals are here for you. Call us at (416) 515-2649 to speak with one of our psychologists.

insomnia treatment Toronto
RICHARD BLOCH psychologist

RICHARD BLOCH, M.C., RP

Stress, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, and Anger

Read More
Brad Reimann addiction and stress psychologist

BRAD REIMANN, Psy.D., C.Psych.

Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Addictions, Psychosis, Adults

Read More

AMRITA GHAI, Ph.D., C.Psych.

Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders

Read More
Robin Foster headshot

ROBIN FOSTER, Ph.D., C.Psych.

Depression, Suicidality, Anxiety, Psychosis, Interpersonal Issues

Read More

INSOMNIA TREATMENT IN TORONTO

What is insomnia?

Insomnia is a sleep disorder that causes an interruption in sleep. If you have insomnia, it may be difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep at night, or it may cause you to wake up too early.

How prevalent is insomnia?

Insomnia is quite common. About 10% of Canadian adults experience persistent insomnia. An additional 20% to 25% of Canadian adults experience occasional insomnia symptoms.

How do sleep problems affect people's lives?

Sleep problems, particularly chronic insomnia, can affect both your physical and psychological well-being. Insomnia can interfere with memory and attention span, deplete energy and motivation, increase irritability, and ultimately diminish your alertness and ability to function both at home and work.

Our sleep clinic can help you overcome insomnia so you can get a better night’s sleep. This should alleviate the adverse effects you’re experiencing associated with sleep deprivation.

What are the symptoms of insomnia?

Symptoms of insomnia include difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep at night, or waking too early. Other symptoms include not feeling well-rested, feeling sleepy or tired during the day, increased accidents or errors, problems with attention and memory, a decline in mood, and worrying about sleep.

What causes insomnia?

Many things can contribute to insomnia, including mental health conditions. The most common mental health-related causes of insomnia are depression, anxiety, and stress.

Poor sleep habits, such as naps, an inconsistent bedtime routine, or stimulation before bed can also be factors. If you travel or have a work schedule that interferes with your circadian rhythm, these may also contribute to insomnia.

Medical conditions and medications can cause sleep problems as well. Digestive issues that result from eating late in the evening may even interfere with your sleep.

How is insomnia diagnosed?

At your initial visit at The Clinic on Dupont, your multi-disciplinary therapist will do an assessment. Your therapist will ask about your sleep patterns, how long your sleep problems have persisted, and any history of insomnia.

Your therapist will also want to know if you have any existing medical or mental health conditions. Other environmental, emotional, or behavioral factors contributing to your sleep problems will also be essential to note.

This assessment will be used for your diagnoses and to plan your insomnia treatment in at our sleep clinic.

What methods are used in insomnia therapy?

At The Clinic on Dupont, our results-oriented therapists use cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for insomnia treatment. Evidence-based sleep therapy approaches may include relaxation techniques, sleep restriction, stimulus control therapy, light therapy, or a method known as remaining passively awake.

Long-term use of sleeping pills isn’t generally recommended. However, we’ll be happy to provide a referral if you or your therapist feel short-term use would benefit you in conjunction with your sleep therapy.

How long does insomnia therapy take?

Insomnia therapy can last from just a few sessions to longer. The length of sleep therapy necessary for full recovery may depend on the cause of your insomnia and whether it’s short-term or chronic, among other factors.

What are the symptoms of sleep problems in children?

Common symptoms of insomnia in children include difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, daytime sleepiness, and worrying about being able to fall asleep. Other symptoms include irritability, depression, hyperactivity, memory or attention problems, increased errors or accidents, and academic or behaviour problems at school.

What type of insomnia therapy is used to treat children?

Your child’s therapist may use cognitive behavioural therapy to help your child overcome insomnia. The proven methods your child’s therapist may use are similar to those used for adult insomnia treatment. Your child’s therapist may also recommend strategies you can implement at home to help your child get better sleep.