Going Beyond the Spielman 3P Model: Why Personalization is Key to Effective Insomnia Treatment

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. While cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be an effective treatment for insomnia, it's important to remember that not all cases of insomnia are the same. Each individual's circumstances and experiences are unique, and this means that their treatment should be tailored to their specific needs.

One model that is often used to guide CBT for insomnia is the Spielman 3P model, which suggests that chronic insomnia is caused by predisposing, precipitating, and perpetuating factors. While this model provides a useful framework for understanding the different factors that contribute to insomnia, it's important to remember that these factors can vary widely from person to person.

For example, one person's predisposing factor might be a family history of insomnia, while another person's might be a history of trauma. Similarly, one person's precipitating factor might be a stressful work situation, while another person's might be a medical condition or medication side effect. Finally, perpetuating factors such as anxiety or depression might affect one person's insomnia more than another's.

To provide effective treatment for insomnia, it's essential to consider each person's unique circumstances and experiences. This means taking a comprehensive history and conducting a thorough assessment of their sleep patterns, as well as any medical or psychological factors that might be contributing to their insomnia. With this information, the clinican can develop a personalized treatment plan that takes into account the individual's specific needs and preferences.

For example, a person with a history of trauma might benefit from trauma-focused therapy in addition to CBT for insomnia. Someone with a medical condition that affects their sleep might need to adjust their medication regimen or work with a sleep specialist to manage their symptoms. A person with anxiety or depression might benefit from additional mental health treatment in addition to CBT for insomnia.

In conclusion, while the Spielman 3P model provides a useful framework for understanding chronic insomnia, it's important to remember that each person's experiences and circumstances are unique. By taking a personalized approach to treatment that considers each individual's specific needs and preferences, clinicians can provide more effective and lasting relief for insomnia.


Julie Kolzet, Ph.D.