Anissa Bell, LMFT
Sleep Therapy
How Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) Works for Chronic Insomnia
Identify Sleep Patterns
We look at your sleep schedule, nighttime habits, and the thoughts that show up when sleep doesn’t come.
Rebuild Sleep Confidence
CBT-I helps calm the nervous system and undo the association between your bed and wakefulness or anxiety.
Reduce Nighttime Anxiety
Over time, your brain relearns how to sleep naturally — without forcing, chasing, or relying on willpower.
When Sleep Doesn't Come Easily
If you fall asleep but wake during the night, lie awake with racing thoughts, or feel anxious about sleep itself, you’re not alone.
Chronic insomnia often becomes a learned pattern — even when the original stressor is gone.
How CBT-I Works for Chronic Insomnia
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is the gold-standard, evidence-based treatment for chronic insomnia.
It focuses on breaking the cycle that keeps sleep problems going — not just managing symptoms.
Is CBT-I Right for You?
CBT-I May Be a Good Fit If You:
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Struggle with chronic insomnia
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Feel anxious about sleep or bedtime
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Wake frequently during the night
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Have relied on sleep medication long-term
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Feel “tired but wired” at night
A Medical Evaluation Is Recommended First If You:
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Snore loudly or suspect sleep apnea
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Experience severe restless legs
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Have symptoms of narcolepsy
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Wake gasping or choking at night
​If medical sleep disorders are suspected, coordination with a physician is recommended before starting CBT-I.
What to Expect in Online CBT-I
CBT-I is a structured, time-limited treatment designed to help your brain relearn how to sleep.
Sessions are active and collaborative, focusing on skills you practice between sessions — not just insight or coping tips.
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6–10 structured therapy sessions
Each session builds on the last, following an evidence-based CBT-I protocol rather than open-ended therapy. -
Weekly sleep tracking
Sleep diaries help us identify patterns that maintain insomnia and track progress over time — without obsessing over perfect sleep. -
Skills-based, collaborative approach
You’ll learn practical strategies to reduce nighttime anxiety, respond differently to wake-ups, and rebuild confidence in your ability to sleep. -
Secure telehealth platform
Sessions are provided via a HIPAA-compliant video platform so you can participate from home anywhere in California. -
Treatment provided statewide in California
Care is available to adults located anywhere in California, in accordance with licensure and telehealth regulations.
About the Therapist
Anissa Bell, LMFT
I specialize in evidence-based treatment for chronic insomnia and sleep anxiety using CBT-I.
My work focuses on helping adults rebuild healthy sleep patterns and reduce nighttime anxiety through structured, research-supported care.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does CBT-I take?
Answer: Most people complete CBT-I in 6–10 sessions, though this varies based on sleep history and goals.
Is CBT-I different from sleep hygiene?
Answer: Yes. CBT-I addresses the thoughts and behaviors that maintain insomnia, not just sleep tips.
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Is online sleep therapy effective?
Answer: Research shows CBT-I delivered via telehealth is as effective as in-person treatment for many clients.
Ready to Improve Your Sleep?
If you’re in California and struggling with chronic insomnia or sleep anxiety, CBT-I may help.