Insomnia Clinic

Insomnia Clinic

Insomnia is a common and debilitating sleep disorder that can be cured with help from sleep specialists at the Woolcock.

THE FACTS

• People with insomnia have trouble getting to sleep, staying asleep or waking too early. Insomnia often develops during times of high stress and most people will suffer from insomnia at some point in their lives.
• You probably have insomnia if your sleep troubles persist for more than a month or you have used sleeping pills for longer than two weeks and feel you cannot get a good night’s sleep without them.
• Insomnia impacts on daily life causing a lack of energy, irritability, poor performance at work, memory difficulties and concentration problems.
• Treating insomnia reduces health risks and helps people feel better and more confident about their sleep.

HOW WE CAN HELP

Individual Consultations

Highly qualified insomnia specialists are available for individual consultations and to assess whether you need further referral for some other sleep disorder.

Group Programmes

Group programs for insomnia and sleep psychology offer many benefits, providing the same evidence-based skills and information as individual sessions in a supportive and collaborative environment. Participants often find it comforting to connect with others who share similar challenges - many tell us how reassured they feel meeting others who, like them, are wide awake in the middle of the night. Research consistently shows that group programs are as effective as one-on-one therapy and can serve as an excellent foundation for individual work if needed. Starting in a group may provide quicker access to support, as waiting times for group programs are often shorter than for individual sessions. It can also reduce the time or frequency needed with a psychologist later, ensuring participants get even greater benefit from therapy. Additionally, some of our group programs are eligible for a Medicare rebate with a GP referral, making them an accessible and cost-effective option. Group programs foster connection, shared learning, and lasting, practical skills for improving sleep and overall well-being.

In 2025, we are expanding our programmes starting with small group sessions for women experiencing insomnia and sleep challenges as a result of hormonal changes like menopause, perimenopause, and treatment-induced menopause run by clinical psychologist Dr Amelia Scott. They will be run fortnightly across six sessions and will provide evidence-based skills and strategies to help women manage the changes of this life stage, and find greater ease and rest in their nights.

GROUP INSOMNIA SESSIONS

The Woolcock's group classes are a specialised insomnia programme based on international research and run by an experienced Sleep Coach. The five group sessions are designed to help you re-learn sleep and become confident about gaining control of your sleep. This method of treating insomnia involves cognitive behavioural therapy which is the most effective long-term treatment. Participants are strongly encouraged to attend all sessions as this is a key part of making the necessary changes to improve your sleep. Participants are required to complete sleep diaries and each person will receive handouts and booklets to keep.

Session 1 - Understanding Sleep and Sleep Myths

Explore the many myths surrounding sleep and gain a thorough understanding of sleep physiology. By the end of the session you will have a better understanding of how sleep works and a realistic view of normal sleep.

Session 2 - Behavioural Intervention for Sleep

Learn how your insomnia has developed into a chronic state. Learn about some effective behavioural changes and how they can start you on the road to recovery.

Session 3 - Circadian Rhythm, Optimising Sleep Environments and Constructive Worrying

Learn what factors influence your internal body clock and sleep. Improve your current bedroom setup and understand what external factors will improve your sleep.

Session 4 - Managing Thoughts and Feelings Towards Sleep

Explore mental exercises that aid relaxation and distraction. Understand thought patterns and how overthinking at night is counterproductive to good sleep.

Session 5 - Nutrition, Exercise and Tying It All Together

What we eat matters and our diet can impact on our sleep. Learn some healthy nutritional information aimed at promoting quality sleep. Exercise is an integral part of healthy living and better sleep. At the end of session 5 we will spend time recapping everything we've been through and key points to remember.

Homework

Read through booklets relating to healthy sleep habits, relaxation, reducing anxiety and worry, monitoring sleep, strategies involved in changing behaviours, and increasing awareness about unhelpful thoughts linked with poor sleep. Patients are expected to complete sleep diaries and sleep homework.

Find out more

• Our psychologists and psychiatrists
• Download our Insomnia Clinic patient information resource
• Sleep Services at the Woolcock Clinic