Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia with RTMS

CBT-I Targeting Co-morbid Insomnia in Patients Receiving RTMS for Treatment-Resistant Major Depressive Disorder

Depression and insomnia occur together in a substantial number of patients. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an effective treatment for depression, but does not help insomnia symptoms in depressed patients. A form of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been developed that specifically helps with insomnia (CBT-I). The study team will give CBT-I to patients who are being treated with TMS for depression, who also have insomnia, to determine if it helps insomnia symptoms.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults aged 18-85 years old
• Patients starting rTMS treatment for MDD
• Co-morbid insomnia as determined by meeting the following criteria: (a) Requiring more than 30 minutes to fall asleep at the beginning of the night or more than 30 minutes of time awake after initially falling asleep for at least 3 nights per week for at least 3 months - - An insomnia severity index score of 15 or more
• Manifested sleep disturbances or associated daytime symptoms causing significant distress or impairment in social, occupational or other areas of functioning
• Reliable access to a computer with internet access.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Obligation to an irregular sleep schedule that prevents the adoption of intervention strategies such as shift workers
• Participants who have received or are receiving CBT-I targeting insomnia in the past, or those who have initiated a new sedative medication, or sedating antidepressant within 2-weeks preceding enrollment
• Comorbid psychiatric disorders, including bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders or depression with psychotic features
• Presence of another untreated sleep disorder such as obstructive sleep apne
• Pregnancy
• Active substance use disorder within the past 3 months
• Use of medications that reduce the seizure threshold including Buproprion, stimulants or augmenting thyroid medications (for those without history of hypothyroid)