At Thrive Together Mental Wellness Centres, we understand the profound impact insomnia can have on your daily life.
That’s why we offer comprehensive assessments and treatments designed by leading experts and backed by science.
Whether you prefer group therapy or personalized individual care, our evidence-based approach ensures you receive the support you need to achieve restful, restorative sleep.
What is Insomnia?
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that makes it difficult to fall asleep, stay asleep, or achieve restful, high-quality sleep.
It can lead to daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and reduced productivity. Insomnia can be triggered by various factors, including stress, anxiety, medical conditions, or poor sleep habits. Left untreated, it can significantly impact physical and mental health, increasing the risk of conditions like depression, anxiety, and medical problems like cardiovascular issues.
At Thrive Together, we believe that understanding the root causes of insomnia is key to effective treatment. Our integrated care approach addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying factors contributing to your sleep challenges.
Our treatment program is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). We offer services for adults as well as specialized programs for teens and their caregivers.
What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is a structured, evidence-based treatment that helps individuals identify and change thoughts and behaviors that interfere with sleep.
Unlike medications, CBT-I focuses on long-term solutions by addressing the root causes of insomnia. We can also help you reduce or stop your use of sleep medications through our de-prescribing care.
CBT-I involves:
Cognitive Restructuring:
Identifying and challenging negative thoughts or beliefs about sleep.
Stimulus Control Therapy:
Rebuilding the connection between the bed and sleep, reducing wakefulness in bed.
Sleep Education:
Understanding the science of sleep and how behavior impacts sleep quality
Sleep Restriction Therapy:
Gradually adjusting time spent in bed to improve sleep efficiency.
Relaxation Techniques:
Learning strategies to calm the mind and body for better sleep.
CBT-I is widely recognized as the gold standard for treating chronic insomnia
Our Insomnia Care Pathway
For OHIP-Funded Services
Referral Requirement: A referral from a Nurse Practitioner or Physician is required.
Ask your NP or Physician to refer you:
Don’t have access to timely primary care?
Referral Process
General Mental Health Assessment
Meet virtually one-on-one with a psychiatrist to discuss your medical and mental health history. They may recommend additional investigations, assessments, or medication optimization.
Note: Ongoing psychiatric care is not provided
Group Treatment
Feedback Appointment
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How does CBT-I help?
CBT-I empowers individuals to:
- Break negative sleep patterns and habits.
- Learn relaxation techniques to reduce nighttime anxiety.
- Improve sleep efficiency and consistency.
- Achieve long-term improvements in sleep quality.
How are the groups structured?
Our CBT-I group therapy sessions are designed to provide a supportive and engaging environment.
- Introduction: The group opens with friendly introductions and a review of the group rules, which includes the expectation of confidentiality by all group members. You’ll be asked to have your camera on during introductions.
- Psychoeducation: Learn evidence-based strategies to improve sleep.
- Homework: Apply what you’ve learned between sessions to make real-life changes.
- Facilitation: Our groups are co-led by a psychiatrist and other clinicians such as nurses, social workers, or therapists. As a teaching clinic, some sessions may include trainees. Our CBT-I program is supervised by a leading Canadian expert in sleep disorders and psychiatry.
What is the difference between the teen group and adult group?
Our Adolescent CBT-I group therapy sessions are designed to appeal to teens and the content is more focused on issues affecting adolescents today.
The adolescent CBT-I group also recognizes the importance of caregivers and a family centred approach. A caregiver is also invited to caregiver group sessions so they can learn strategies to better support their youth with their sleep
What happens if I miss an appointment?
Due to the high demand for OHIP-funded therapies, we ask that you provide notice if you’re unable to attend. A nominal no-show fee applies for missed groups. Program policies are reviewed during intake.
Why choose individual therapy?
For those seeking a more individual approach, private therapy offers the flexibility to focus on your unique goals. While not OHIP-funded, it may be covered by insurance or benefits. Our therapists are specially trained and mentored by our expert clinicians to ensure you receive the highest standard of care for insomnia.