Insomnia Treatment in NYC
A psychiatrist who evaluates the full picture behind your sleep problems, not just the symptoms. Medication management and CBT-I in Midtown Manhattan.
Priority Onboarding: Most new patients seen within 1-2 business days.Executive Hours: Evening sessions until 9:00 PM.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nigel Kennedy, MBBS, PhD - Board-Certified Psychiatrist | 15+ Years Experience | Last Updated: April 2026
Your Insomnia Specialist: Dr. Nigel Kennedy, MBBS, PhD
- ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist (American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology)
- MBBS and PhD from Imperial College London and St George's, University of London (Neurogenetics)
- Psychiatry Residency, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Mount Sinai
- Trained in CBT-I (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia)
- Licensed in New York and California
Dr. Kennedy treats insomnia as both a standalone condition and as a symptom of something broader. His approach starts with a thorough evaluation to understand what is actually causing the sleep disruption, then builds a treatment plan around that specific cause.
Understanding Insomnia
Insomnia is not simply trouble sleeping. It is a pattern of persistent difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling unrested, to the point where it affects how you function during the day. Whether a primary condition or secondary to anxiety or medication, disordered sleep is a barrier to recovery. For many patients, insomnia is both a condition in its own right and a signal that something else is going on.
Insomnia Has Many Causes
As Dr. Kennedy puts it:
"Although insomnia can be a primary condition, it is commonly a symptom of something broader. It is important to do a detailed evaluation to consider other medications, other health conditions, and to get a real sense of stress levels in somebody's life."
He evaluates each patient's insomnia in the context of their full medical and psychiatric picture. Common causes include:
- Anxiety, where racing thoughts prevent the mind from settling at night
- Depression, which can cause early morning waking, excessive sleeping, or disrupted sleep patterns
- ADHD medication, particularly stimulants, which can interfere with sleep when taken too late in the day
- High-stress careers and chronic work pressure
- Grief, loss, or major life transitions
- Changes in sleep patterns with aging
Dr. Kennedy often emphasizes that context matters: "Insomnia that has started suddenly in the middle of a very stressful period of life is very different to somebody that has had insomnia consistently for most of their life." The cause shapes the treatment, which is why a thorough evaluation comes first.
Different Types of Sleep Disruption
Not all insomnia is the same, and the distinction matters for treatment:
- Difficulty falling asleep but sleeping well once asleep
- Falling asleep easily but waking frequently throughout the night
- Waking too early and being unable to fall back asleep
- Sleeping a full night but waking unrefreshed
"These conditions are very different and require a different approach. It is only through a full evaluation that we can really tailor treatment to specific needs."
Why Seek Treatment for Insomnia
Chronic insomnia affects every area of life: cognitive function, mood, work performance, physical health, and relationships.
Chronic insomnia affects every area of life: cognitive function, mood, work performance, physical health, and relationships. Treatment aims to support patients in:
- Fall asleep faster and stay asleep through the night
- Wake up feeling rested rather than exhausted
- Improve concentration and decision-making during the day
- Reduce irritability and emotional reactivity caused by sleep deprivation
- Lower the risk of insomnia escalating into anxiety or depression
- Reduce dependence on over-the-counter sleep aids that may not address the root cause
For patients whose insomnia is caused by stress, the improvement can be rapid once the underlying cause is addressed. The goal of treatment is to restore recuperative rest and return patients to high-level functioning.
The Clinical Approach to Insomnia
CBT-I (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia)
CBT-I is a structured therapy specifically designed for insomnia that can be as effective as medication. Unlike general CBT, CBT-I focuses entirely on sleep patterns, sleep hygiene, and the behavioral habits that keep insomnia going.
A typical CBT-I course involves 8 to 10 sessions. Patients keep a sleep diary, receive specific homework assignments, and learn techniques to adjust their sleep schedule and regulate their sleep cycle. The goal is to restore a natural pattern of falling asleep, staying asleep, and waking up rested.
Dr. Kennedy offers CBT-I alongside psychiatric treatment and coordinates care with specialized therapists who can provide more intensive CBT-I treatment for patients who need it.
Medication
Dr. Kennedy prioritizes the prevention of long-term sedative reliance by focusing on non-habit-forming bridges and behavioral strategies.
When medication is appropriate, Dr. Kennedy may prescribe non-addictive medications that support sleep without the risks associated with traditional sleeping pills. Dr. Kennedy may also utilize GeneSight pharmacogenomic testing to guide medication selection based on a patient's unique genetic profile. The choice of medication depends on the type of insomnia, the patient's other conditions, and their overall medication profile. The medications listed here are some options Dr. Kennedy considers; they are not an exhaustive list, as there is no one-size-fits-all treatment.
"If insomnia is the primary complaint, it is always important to work within a therapeutic framework first and use medication as needed to supplement this treatment."
Treating the Underlying Condition
When insomnia is driven by anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma, the most effective treatment is addressing the root cause. Dr. Kennedy treats the insomnia and the underlying condition together, which typically produces more lasting results than treating sleep alone.
To discuss your sleep concerns, call (929) 505-0504 or email appointments@kennedypsychiatric.com.
Evidence-Based Insomnia Care
At Kennedy Psychiatric, we move beyond "surface-level" sleep advice. Our approach is grounded in clinical guidelines from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) to address the root causes of persistent sleep-wake disorders.
Treatment-Resistant Chronic Insomnia
We specialize in helping patients who have struggled with sleep at least three nights a week for three months or more, and who have not found relief through over-the-counter or basic sleep hygiene methods.
Psychophysiological Insomnia
For high-performance individuals where stress has created a cycle of "conditioned arousal," we use targeted interventions to retrain the brain's association between the bed and wakefulness.
Comorbid Mood & Anxiety Disorders
Insomnia is rarely an isolated issue. We provide integrated care for sleep disturbances that occur alongside anxiety, depression, or PTSD, treating the "whole person" rather than just the symptom.
Expert Clinical Evaluation (Differential Diagnosis)
Not all sleep issues are psychiatric. If our evaluation suggests a physiological or respiratory cause - such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) - we will refer you to a Pulmonologist or Sleep Lab for a formal sleep study (polysomnography) to ensure a safe and accurate diagnosis.
First-Line CBT-I (Drug-Free Path)
We offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). Clinical research consistently shows that CBT-I is more effective in the long term than sedative-hypnotics, providing a durable path to sleep without the risks of dependency.
Sleep Architecture & Aging
We help older adults understand the natural physiological shifts in sleep patterns, distinguishing between normal age-related changes and underlying clinical sleep disorders.
What to Expect from Insomnia Treatment
Treatment outcomes depend on the cause:
- CBT-I:
- CBT-I: Every patient responds differently to treatment but it is possible to improve the quality and quantity of sleep within 4-6 weeks
- Anxiety or stress-related insomnia: Improves as the underlying condition is treated, typically within the first month
- Grief or trauma-related insomnia: May take several sessions of therapy before sleep normalizes
The goal of treatment is not indefinite management. It is to restore healthy sleep architecture so patients can complete their course of care and return to high-level functioning.
"This huge variation in patient presentations illustrates the need for working with an experienced clinician who can identify the cause and make sure that the treatment fits their specific circumstances. As with many things in psychiatry, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment."
Our Treatment Process: A Clinical Approach
At Kennedy Psychiatric, we follow a structured, evidence-based pathway to diagnose and treat sleep-wake disorders. Our goal is to move beyond symptom management toward long-term sleep stability.
Before an evaluation is scheduled, Dr. Kennedy personally reviews each inquiry via phone or email. This initial triage ensures that a psychiatric sleep evaluation is the appropriate clinical pathway for your specific symptoms.
Rapid Access: To address the acute nature of sleep disturbances,
Rapid Access: To address the acute nature of sleep disturbances, new patient evaluations are typically scheduled within 1-2 business days. Subject to clinical availability.
A thorough psychiatric and physiological assessment is required to identify the root cause of sleep disruption. This evaluation includes:
- Differential Diagnosis: Distinguishing between Primary Insomnia and Secondary Insomnia (insomnia resulting from mood disorders, trauma, or medical conditions).
- Clinical Screening for Respiratory Causes: We screen for symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing, such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). If a respiratory cause is suspected, we will refer you to a Pulmonologist for a formal sleep study (polysomnography) before proceeding with psychiatric treatment.
- Clinical History: A detailed review of sleep architecture, psychiatric history, and current pharmacological profile.
Following the evaluation, we develop a personalized treatment plan. Depending on the diagnosis, this may include:
- CBT-I (First-Line Therapy): Implementation of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia, the clinically recommended gold standard for chronic sleep issues.
- Integrated Care: Coordination with specialized therapists for intensive behavioral work.
- Pharmacological Stewardship: If indicated, we manage the cautious use of medications, focusing on safety and the prevention of long-term dependency.
We provide regular follow-up appointments to monitor treatment efficacy and safety. This involves:
- Sleep Tracking: Clinical monitoring of sleep latency, maintenance, and daytime functioning.
- Medication Review: Ongoing assessment of any prescriptions to ensure they serve as a bridge to natural sleep, rather than a permanent reliance.
The objective of our treatment is clinical optimization and the restoration of healthy sleep architecture. Our goal is for patients to see functional improvement and have a measurable improvement in the quantity and quality of their sleep.
Cost and Insurance
Fee-for-service model with superbills provided for out-of-network insurance reimbursement. Full cost transparency at the time of each appointment.
Access
- Priority Onboarding: Most new patients seen within 1-2 business days
- Executive Hours: Evening appointments until 9:00 PM
- Telehealth available for follow-ups (New York and California)
- Midtown Manhattan, near Rockefeller Center
What Insomnia Patients Say
Dr. Kennedy has received over 42 patient reviews on US News Health, rated "Highly Recommended."
"Patient testimonials will be added with permission."
- Name withheld for privacy
The Kennedy Advantage: Insomnia Treatment
Root Cause Approach
Dr. Kennedy does not prescribe a sleeping pill and send you home. He evaluates what is actually causing your insomnia and treats that, whether it is anxiety, medication side effects, depression, or a standalone sleep disorder.
CBT-I Expertise
CBT-I is the gold standard for chronic insomnia treatment, and Dr. Kennedy offers it directly alongside psychiatric treatment. This is uncommon among psychiatrists.
Built for Working Professionals
Priority onboarding within 1-2 business days. Evening appointments until 9:00 PM. Telehealth follow-ups for patients in New York and California.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can psychiatric medications affect my sleep?
Certain classes of medication, including some antidepressants and stimulants, can influence sleep architecture. This may manifest as difficulty falling asleep or changes in sleep quality. If you suspect your medication is affecting your rest, Dr. Kennedy will conduct a clinical review to determine if adjusting the dosage, timing, or formulation is appropriate.
When should I see a psychiatrist for insomnia instead of a primary care doctor?
A psychiatric evaluation is recommended when insomnia is persistent and occurs alongside mood disorders, anxiety, or high levels of chronic stress. If standard sleep hygiene and over-the-counter options have failed, a specialist can determine if there is an underlying psychiatric or physiological driver that requires targeted intervention.
What is CBT-I, and how is it different from traditional "talk therapy"?
CBT-I (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia) is a brief, highly structured medical protocol. Unlike traditional psychotherapy which explores emotions or past experiences, CBT-I focuses on the physiological and behavioral triggers of poor sleep. It uses data-driven techniques, such as sleep diaries and stimulus control, to retrain the brain's ability to fall asleep naturally.
How does anxiety contribute to sleep disturbances?
Anxiety and insomnia often exist in a reciprocal relationship. Clinical hyperarousal - characterized by "racing thoughts" and an inability to transition into a resting state - is a primary driver of sleep-onset latency.
Anxiety and insomnia often exist in a reciprocal relationship. Clinical hyperarousal - characterized by "racing thoughts" and an inability to transition into a resting state - is a primary driver of sleep-onset latency. Addressing the underlying anxiety is often essential to achieving stable, long-term sleep patterns.
What is the first step in the evaluation process?
The priority is to rule out non-psychiatric causes. Our evaluation includes a screening for respiratory issues like Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). If a physiological cause is suspected, we will facilitate a referral to a Pulmonologist for a formal sleep study.
How long does clinical insomnia treatment typically take?
The duration of treatment depends on the diagnosis. CBT-I is typically a short-term intervention lasting 6 to 10 sessions. If the insomnia is secondary to a complex mood disorder or trauma, the timeline may be longer as we stabilize the primary condition. Our goal is always a clear endpoint where the patient sleeps independently.
Does insomnia affect cognitive and professional performance?
Extensively. Peer-reviewed research confirms that chronic sleep deprivation impairs executive function, emotional regulation, and decision-making. For individuals in high-stakes professional roles, treating insomnia is not just about wellness - it is about
Extensively. Peer-reviewed research confirms that chronic sleep deprivation impairs executive function, emotional regulation, and decision-making. For individuals in high-stakes professional roles, treating insomnia is not just about wellness - it is about recovering and maintaining career performance.
What is your approach to sleep medication?
We take a conservative and evidence-based approach to pharmacotherapy. Following clinical guidelines, we prioritize non-pharmacological treatments like CBT-I as the first line of defense. If medication is indicated, we focus on non-habit-forming options to bridge the gap while we address the root cause of the sleep disturbance.
Get Help with Your Sleep
Priority Onboarding: Most new patients seen within 1-2 business days.
Executive Hours: Evening sessions until 9:00 PM.
Call (929) 505-0504 to speak with Dr. Kennedy about your insomnia. He can often schedule your first appointment within a few days.
You can also email appointments@kennedypsychiatric.com or request a consultation online.
Kennedy Psychiatric
1350 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 252
New York, NY 10019
Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 9 PM
Free consultation call. No commitment required.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Insomnia and sleep disorders require individualized evaluation and treatment by a qualified healthcare provider. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 or go to your nearest emergency room.