Welcome to SleepWell Counseling
Sherry L. Grismer, MA, LPC-MH, LAC, QMHP, CBTI-C
Sleep is the next vital sign. Poor sleep can lead to impaired memory, reduced cognitive functioning, problems with focus, decision-making, and problem-solving, increased irritability, accidents, and many serious health risks, including heart disease, reduced ability to cope, and neurodegenerative disorders.
For individuals who have difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep or who wake too early, acute or chronic insomnia may be the reason. Insomnia prevalence can be as high as 30%–50%, and many people struggle with symptoms for years, trying numerous over-the-counter and prescription medications or other strategies to find sleep. The first-line treatment for insomnia—and the treatment that all medical providers agree is most effective—is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). This treatment typically involves 2–8 sessions, and evidence shows that it works better than medication for long-term sleep improvement and is just as effective as medication in the short term.
There are other sleep disorders that can significantly fragment and disrupt sleep. There are other short-term evidenced-based behavioral interventions for sleep issues include Imagery Rehearsal Therapy for nightmares, circadian-rhythm alignment, and CPAP-compliance interventions that can help. Reducing sleep fragmentation provides restorative sleep which is essential for healthy metabolic functioning and improves overall wellness.
As one of only two individuals credentialed by the Board of Behavioral Sleep Medicine, I have received extensive training, supervision, and evaluation to obtain the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia Credential (CBTI-C). This allows me to provide comprehensive assessments for sleep disorders and deliver interventions with the utmost fidelity. I offer evidence-based treatments for insomnia, nightmares, circadian rhythm disorders, and CPAP compliance for Obstructive Sleep Apnea, as well as referrals for sleep studies to evaluate Restless Leg Syndrome, parasomnias, Obstructive or Central Sleep Apnea, Narcolepsy and REM Behavior Disorder.
Non-fragmented, restorative sleep is possible.