Sleep Disorder Treatment in Palm Beach
Psychiatric evaluation and treatment for insomnia and sleep disturbances
What Is Sleep Disorders?
Sleep disorders encompass a range of conditions that disrupt normal sleep patterns and quality. From a psychiatric perspective, the most common are insomnia disorder, hypersomnia, nightmare disorder, and sleep disturbances secondary to psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
Signs & Symptoms
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep (insomnia)
- Excessive daytime sleepiness despite adequate sleep
- Nightmares or disturbing dreams
- Sleep talking or walking (parasomnias)
- Irregular or shifted sleep-wake timing
- Non-restorative sleep
- Significant daytime impairment from sleep issues
- Co-occurring psychiatric symptoms
Treatment Approaches
Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is the first-line treatment for insomnia disorder. Pharmacological options include melatonin receptor agonists, orexin receptor antagonists (suvorexant), and low-dose sedating antidepressants. When sleep disorders are secondary to psychiatric conditions, treating the primary condition often resolves the sleep problem.
Why Concierge Psychiatry?
With Dr. Agresti's concierge model, you get his direct cell number, same-day prescription refills, and 24-hour appointment availability — with no membership fee. Experience the difference that direct-access care makes.
Learn About Concierge CareFrequently Asked Questions
If your sleep issues co-occur with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or mood changes, a psychiatrist should evaluate you first. Many sleep disturbances are symptoms of underlying psychiatric conditions, and treating the root cause often resolves the sleep problem without a separate sleep study. Dr. Agresti can determine whether a sleep lab referral is also needed.
Yes, many psychiatric medications affect sleep architecture. SSRIs can cause insomnia or vivid dreams, benzodiazepines may trigger sleepwalking, and stimulants for ADHD can delay sleep onset. Dr. Agresti carefully evaluates medication timing and selection to minimize sleep disruption while effectively treating the primary condition.
CBT-I is a structured program that addresses the thoughts and behaviors perpetuating insomnia. It includes sleep restriction, stimulus control, cognitive restructuring, and sleep hygiene education. Research consistently shows CBT-I is more effective than sleeping pills long-term, with results lasting well beyond the treatment period.
Absolutely. When sleep disorders exist alongside conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, or PTSD, treatment must address both simultaneously. For example, treating depression with a sedating antidepressant can improve both mood and insomnia, while the wrong medication choice could worsen sleep. This is why psychiatric expertise in sleep management matters.
Telehealth is highly effective for sleep disorder evaluation and ongoing management. Dr. Agresti provides telehealth psychiatry throughout Florida, allowing patients to discuss sleep patterns, review sleep diaries, and adjust medications from home. Initial evaluation, follow-ups, and medication management can all be handled via secure video visits.