Sleep Therapy for Children, Teens, and Young Adults in Portland, OR

What Are Sleep Difficulties?

Sleep difficulties are common during childhood and adolescence and can significantly affect mood, behavior, learning, attention, and overall well-being. Some youth have difficulty falling asleep, while others wake frequently during the night, experience nightmares, or struggle with nighttime fears. Sleep problems can become stressful for the whole family, often leading to bedtime battles, increased anxiety, daytime fatigue, and difficulty functioning at school or home.

Sleep difficulties are not simply a matter of willpower. Factors such as anxiety, stress, developmental differences, trauma, medical conditions, family routines, and learned sleep habits can all contribute to ongoing sleep problems. With effective support, children and families can develop healthy sleep patterns and greater confidence at bedtime.

Evidence-Based Sleep Treatment

As a child and adolescent psychologist in Portland, OR, I provide evidence-based treatment for children, teens, and young adults experiencing sleep difficulties, including difficulty falling asleep, frequent nighttime awakenings, nightmares, and nighttime fears.

Treatment begins by understanding the factors contributing to sleep challenges and developing a plan tailored to your child's developmental stage and individual needs. I use evidence-based strategies drawn from behavioral sleep medicine, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and parent-based interventions to help young people develop healthier sleep habits and improve sleep quality.

For children whose sleep difficulties are related to anxiety, nighttime worries, separation concerns, or fears, treatment may include gradual exposure-based approaches that help children build confidence and reduce avoidance. I also incorporate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) when helpful, supporting children and teens in responding more effectively to difficult thoughts and feelings that may interfere with sleep.

Parents play an important role in treatment. Together, we identify strategies that support restful sleep while creating consistent, sustainable routines at home.

What to Expect During Therapy

Therapy begins with a comprehensive assessment of your child's sleep patterns, bedtime routines, emotional well-being, family factors, and any medical concerns that may affect sleep.

Treatment may focus on:

• Improving bedtime routines and sleep habits

• Reducing anxiety and nighttime fears

• Addressing sleep-related avoidance behaviors

• Managing nightmares and bedtime worries

• Supporting independent sleep

• Developing strategies for nighttime awakenings

• Strengthening parent confidence and consistency

The goal of therapy is not only to improve sleep, but also to help children, teens, and families feel more rested, confident, and able to participate fully in daily life.