“Can a psychologist treat sleep disorders?”

Hi, Thank you for your question. Yes, psychologists can treat sleep disorders including insomnia by developing an understanding of normal and disordered sleep, and understanding the root of what may be causing your sleep disorder so that they can treat it. Sleep psychologists can help those experiencing sleep problems related to: - Insomnia <https://sleepeducation.org/sleep-disorders/insomnia/> - Obstructive sleep apnea <https://sleepeducation.org/sleep-disorders/sleep-apnea/> - Narcolepsy <https://sleepeducation.org/sleep-disorders/narcolepsy/> - Parasomnias (e.g. nightmares, sleep terrors, sleepwalking, bedwetting) - Sleep movement disorders (e.g. restless legs syndrome) - Sleep cycle disorders - Dependence on sleep medications Sleep disorders most amenable to interventions provided by sleep psychologists include: chronic insomnia, circadian rhythm disorders, and PAP non-adherence. Often, sleep psychologists may use cognitive behavioral therapy <https://sleepeducation.org/patients/cognitive-behavioral-therapy/> to treat sleep disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps you change actions or thoughts that are hurting your ability to sleep well. Studies have found that cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia is more effective than medications used to treat insomnia. It is the role of sleep psychologists to administer this type of behavioral therapy to treat sleep disorders. Because many sleep disorders affect overall health, sleep psychologists may work closely with other members of the sleep team, including physicians, surgeons and dentists, to treat co-occurring health issues. The treatment for your sleep disorder depends on its underlying cause. If youre experiencing trouble sleeping, I would recommend you seek out support from a mental health professional. I hope this helps. Best, *Jenna Torres, PsyD* Clinical Psychologist LifeStance Health

Yes, there is a cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia that psychologist can apply to your sleep issues.

Yes, a psychologist can work with you on improving sleep. I would suggest locating a provider near you who specializes in sleep disorders.

Yes, in fact there is a subspecialty certification in behavioral sleep medicine available to PhD psychologists. Their special skilsl would generally be in the treatment of insomnia.

See this link...
https://sleepeducation.org/spotlight-sleep-psychologists/
and
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/sleep/therapy-for-sleep-disorders.htm