Occupational Therapist CBT for Insomnia – Judith Mendoza

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In her own words:

Sleep is a cornerstone of physical and mental wellness. It aids us in our ability to focus, be effective in the workplace and manage stress both in our personal and professional lives. Sleep is an important time for the body to heal and the brain to consolidate memory. Given the importance of sleep in our daily lives I have chosen to dedicate my practice to assisting people with overcoming insomnia.

I am an occupational therapist with advanced level training in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). I completed this training through McMaster University and the University of Toronto respectively. I have also completed additional specialized training in cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) through the Centre for Mindfulness Studies in Toronto.

I have over 15 years of hospital based experience providing mental health counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia also known as CBT-I. I have worked with adults from all walks of life and with a wide variety of conditions such as anxiety, panic, depression, chronic pain and severe and persistent mental illness. My style is client centred, non judgemental and recovery focused.

CBT-I is a well researched, effective insomnia treatment for persistent sleep problems. It is a structured program that helps you identify and replace thoughts and behaviors that interfere with sleep with those that promote good quality sleep. Unlike sleeping pills, CBT-I helps you overcome the underlying causes of your sleep problems.

As a CBT-I therapist my role is to help you discover and assess the thoughts and behaviours you may be engaging in that interfere with sleep. CBT-I is a very collaborative style of treatment. Once the sleep interfering factors have been determined, together we will develop a plan to replace them with thoughts and behaviours that promote sleep. You will be encouraged to trial new behaviours and keep a daily sleep log to monitor change. I have worked with many clients who have struggled with sleep issues for a long time, so I understand the feeling of helplessness. But it doesn't have to continue that way. CBT-I can help. My clients often see, and more importantly feel a big difference after 3-4 sessions. I use CBT-I because it is effective. I would love to share this treatment method with you and work together to tailor the strategies to address your individual needs. You can end your struggle with sleep, and finally benefit from its restorative properties. I have every confidence that you will be able to sleep again.

If you would like to learn more about CBT-I please contact me to set up a complimentary 20 minute phone appointment to discuss your sleep difficulties and if CBT-I is right for you.

Watch:

Video: Sleep Program Intro