The Sleep Course is focused on improving sleep quality by learning how sleep works and how to successfully change sleeping patterns. The course includes helpful information and proven skills to help people achieve their sleep-related goals.
Why was this Course developed?
The Sleep Course was developed in Australia by the eCentreClinic. Lots of people have trouble sleeping at some point in their lives. Many people who have sleep problems never seek treatment; however, they do have access to the Internet. The Sleep Course was designed in response to the widespread need for access to sleep treatment, regardless if people have been living with sleep problems for many years or a short while.
How effective is the Sleep Course?
A preliminary study conducted by Macquarie University shows that participants in the Sleep Course report a 39% improvement in insomnia, 27% improvement with unhelpful beliefs about sleep, and significant improvements in their psychological distress related to sleep problems. Over 91% of participants indicated they would feel confident recommending the course to a friend.
What is involved in the Sleep Course?
The Sleep Course is made up of 4 easy to understand lessons and typically takes 6 weeks to complete. Lessons consist of educational materials that are accessed online. Clients are encouraged to work on various activities, for at least an hour a week. Throughout the course, clients receive automated emails with important reminders and prompts.
What support is available from therapists?
The Sleep Course is therapist-assisted. This means that during the week clients can send questions or comments to their designated therapist through a secure message system. On a set day each week, the therapist checks the website, reviews client progress on the course and responds to messages. Most contact with the therapist is through secure emails, but sometimes therapists contact clients by phone.
Who provides therapist-assistance?
In this course, clients are assigned to a therapist working directly in the Online Therapy Unit who is trained in psychology or social work and are registered with their respective governing bodies.
What research is being done on this course?
We are always conducting research in order to continually improve Online Therapy. When you sign up for Online Therapy, you will be provided with details regarding the research we are conducting, such as investigating different resources and needs of specific groups of clients.
Does the Sleep Course help with other concerns?
The Sleep Course has extra resources that help people with concerns that may accompany sleep problems such as shift work, diet, medication, exercise, and relaxation.
How will my progress on the course be monitored?
All clients who complete this course complete brief questionnaires before they begin, on a weekly basis throughout, after the course is completed, and then 3 months after that. These questionnaires help us assess how you are doing. These questionnaires do not take very long but provide us with important information on your progress and the outcomes of Online Therapy.
Who can take part in the course?
The course is designed for those who are experiencing problems related to sleep (difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, not getting enough sleep, and not feeling well during the day due to sleep problems), are 18 years of age or older, are a Saskatchewan resident who will be in-province for the duration of the program, and are comfortable using and have access to the Internet. The course is not recommended for those who have severe problems related to untreated sleep apnea, with alcohol or drugs, mania, psychosis, or strong thoughts of suicide. If any of the above would indicate that Online Therapy is not suited to your needs, please refer to the resource page or speak with your family doctor about other service options. Please note this course is only available to Saskatchewan residents.
Who can answer my questions about the course?
If you have any questions about the course, please feel free to contact us.