Narcolepsy Counseling and Therapy Treatment Center

A MISSION FOR MICHAEL

17 minutes read
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There is a range of challenges that you can experience when you’re living with a sleep disorder. A Mission For Michael (AMFM) is a leading mental health care provider, with inpatient mental health treatment facilities located in California, Washington, and Virginia. Our comprehensive care can help you address underlying mental health conditions that are worsening your sleep disorder symptoms.  

At AMFM Mental Health Treatment Centers, we provide whole-person care for a range of mental health and dual diagnosis concerns. Our treatment program will be tailored to your unique needs. The core components of our treatment programs are evidence-based practices, holistic approaches, and wellness programs. We are now going to shift our focus to exploring narcolepsy, and its common symptoms. We will then review common treatment approaches so you have an idea of what to look for in a treatment provider.

Understanding What is Narcolepsy?

Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological sleep disorder that is known for causing Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS). Those living with narcolepsy can experience sudden sleep attacks, often during appropriate times of the day. This condition can also lead to sudden muscle weakness, or a sudden loss of muscle control known as cataplexy.

Narcolepsy occurs when your bran is unable to regulate your sleep-wake cycles. Sleep disruption can have a significant impact on your functioning. It can make it challenging to function at work, engage in your social life, and manage your overall physical health and wellbeing. If you or someone you love has been struggling with the psychological effects of a chronic sleep disorder, we encourage you to contact AMFM Mental Health Treatment Centers by dialing (866) 478-4383 for support today.

There are a few different things that can trigger, or cause narcolepsy symptoms. Often, narcolepsy is the result of an autoimmune response that targets the hypocretin-producing cells within your brain. This can be the result of things like stress, sleep deprivation, certain infections, and even some hormonal changes. Many have co-existing autoimmune or other sleep disorders.

Those who are living with secondary narcolepsy generally have a medical health condition such as a brain injury, tumor, or other neurological condition. This form of narcolepsy requires additional research to better understand the underlying changes caused by these health conditions.

As we mentioned earlier, the narcolepsy symptoms you experience can vary from others. This individualized condition can include symptoms of varying severities and effects. Those who are living with narcolepsy often experience REM sleep dysregulation. This means that the stages of REM sleep, non-REM sleep, and wakefulness become blurred.

Some of the common signs and symptoms of narcolepsy include:

  • Persistent daytime sleepiness: This can include sudden sleep attacks during the day.
  • Difficulty staying awake: You may struggle with excessive fatigue after adequate nighttime sleep.
  • Cataplexy: This is a sudden loss of muscle control, often triggered by strong emotions.
  • Disturbed nighttime sleep: This may include frequent waking or insomnia.
  • Hypnagogic Hallucinations: This can include hallucinations during the transition from wakefulness to sleep. It can include your senses of sight, sound, touch, and smell. Some refer to this as “dream-like experiences.”
  • Sleep paralysis: This includes temporary inability to move or speak when waking up or falling asleep.

There is no cure for narcolepsy in the traditional sense of the word. However, this condition can be managed with the use of medications, lifestyle changes, and therapy. Developing a healthy sleep hygiene routine, including a structured sleep schedule, is an example of lifestyle changes that can improve symptom management.

Commonly used narcolepsy medication includes stimulants, antidepressants, and sodium oxybate. Mental health clinics may offer support groups and counseling to help you learn to cope with the emotional and social challenges associated with narcolepsy. Research into a cure and effective treatments for narcolepsy is ongoing.

Narcolepsy does have a genetic component to it, similar to other mental health conditions. Individuals who are living with specific genes have higher risks compared to others. Those who have family members living with narcolepsy have an increased likelihood of developing the condition themselves.

Keep in mind that genetics is just one factor that can affect your risk of developing narcolepsy. Other factors that play a role include your environment and history of particular infections.

Are There Free & Confidential Narcolepsy Assessments Near Me

A Mission For Michael (AMFM) is a mental health care provider that offers complementary assessments. These evaluations are completed by trained and qualified professionals who can help determine your treatment needs based on the psychological symptoms that accompany your narcolepsy.  Our mental health assessments are a component of our admission process, and available to anyone in need.

Once we have completed your free assessment, we can review the appropriate treatment options with you. This is based on the symptoms you’re experiencing and their severity. To begin your confidential and free assessment, call us today.

Common Types of Narcolepsy

There are two main types of narcolepsy sleep disorders, but there are other forms as well. These two conditions are differentiated because of their symptoms and underlying causes for the sleep-wake cycle disorder. The two types can have varying effects on your life, and may benefit from different treatment approaches. Continue reading for an overview of each type.

Type 1 narcolepsy is known to cause excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy. This condition is marked by an orexin deficiency (Hypocretin) within the brain. Those living with this condition often experience vivid dreams and disrupted nighttime sleep. This is the most common form of narcolepsy.

The symptoms of type 1 narcolepsy do resemble other mental health conditions, which can lead to a misdiagnosis. Symptoms resemble conditions like depression and epilepsy. Narcolepsy can develop during childhood or adolescence years. For proper diagnosis, mental health professionals often use specialized diagnosis tests such as a sleep study.

Type 2 narcolepsy often has normal hypocretin levels within the brain. Narcolepsy symptoms associated with type 2 include excessive sleepiness and sleep fragmentation. Those living with type 2 narcolepsy often have less severe symptoms than those with type 1.

For some, symptoms associated with this form of narcolepsy can gradually improve over time or remain stable. Some experience a delayed diagnosis due to the overlap of symptoms as other sleep disorders.

Secondary narcolepsy is a form of this condition that is caused by brain injuries, tumors, and other neurological condition. This can occur after a physical trauma, stroke, and certain infections. The symptoms of this condition are similar to other forms of narcolepsy, and often include excessive fatigue and daytime drowsiness.

This condition often requires comprehensive care due to the complex nature often associated with underlying health conditions. Treatment often includes a combination of various therapies and medications.

Difference Between NT1 and NT2 Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy type 1 and type 2 have distinct differences. One of which is the presence of cataplexy within type 1. This is a sudden muscle weakness, which is often triggered by emotions. Additionally, type 1 also has lowered or absent hypocretin levels within the brain. The triggers for type 1 and type 2 often vary as well.

Type 1 of narcolepsy tends to have more pronounces, and often severe, symptoms. This can lead to a greater functional impact, including your work performance and everyday responsibilities. Type 2 symptoms may not be as intense or notable, but they can still cause a disruption to your everyday life.

What is a Narcolepsy Therapy and Treatment Program?

Narcolepsy treatment is available within residential mental health treatment programs and outpatient therapy facilities. This allows you to receive treatment based on the severity of your symptoms and the effect that they have on your overall functioning. Narcolepsy treatment programs can include psychiatric care and medication management services for underlying causes of narcolepsy, and psychological effects of the sleep disorder.

Comprehensive behavioral health services for narcolepsy include psychotherapy services and psychoeducation regarding health sleep hygiene strategies. You may participate in group therapy, individual therapy, and other forms of psychoeducation. Psychiatric facilities are often equipped to treat co-existing mental health conditions with treatments like trauma therapy and other mood disorder treatments. Narcolepsy treatment plans are typically modified to address the specific symptoms you’re experiencing.

Narcolepsy Counseling, Therapy and Treatment Programs Near Me

A Mission For Michael (AMFM) Mental Health Treatment Centers can provide you with residential mental health treatment. We provide whole person care that embraces the use of evidence-based practices, holistic approaches, and wellness programs. Dial (866)478-4383 to explore available treatments to help with the psychological symptoms associated with circadian rhythm disorders.

Treatment Methods and Programs for Narcolepsy Therapy

Narcolepsy treatment programs often use a comprehensive approach that includes the use of medication, life-style adjustments, and therapeutic interventions to address factors contributing to your narcolepsy symptoms. The treatment programs that we will review are intended to support those experiencing symptoms ranging from mild to severe, and improve daily functioning. Commonly used treatment programs include:

Inpatient Residential Narcolepsy Treatment

Residential treatment programming is ideal for those who are experiencing moderate to severe narcolepsy symptoms. These programs include 24/7 medical care within a structured and supportive environment. Treatment often includes therapy, psychoeducation, and continued support. You will learn sustainable lifestyle changes and coping strategies for managing your narcolepsy symptoms.

PHP for Narcolepsy

Partial Hospitalization Programming (PHP), also known as day treatment programs, provide you with immersive treatment while allowing you to return home for the evenings. Treatment can include therapy, counseling, sleep management strategies, and medication management services. This treatment option can bridge the gap between inpatient and routine outpatient care.

Medication-Assisted Narcolepsy Treatment

Medication assisted treatment for narcolepsy can include the use of medications that address excessive sleepiness and cataplexy. This can include the use of stimulants, antidepressants, and sodium oxybate. Your healthcare professional will work closely with you to ensure that your medications are working properly. This approach is commonly combined with behavioral health treatments for comprehensive care.

Outpatient and IOP for Narcolepsy

Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP) are intensive outpatient programs that include several hours of group therapy, multiple times each week. Additional time can be used for individual therapy and medication management services. Traditional outpatient treatment includes weekly or biweekly individual or group therapy sessions. Outpatient treatment is ideal for those experiencing mild to moderate symptoms, who do not require continuous support.

Evidence-Based Therapies Available for Narcolepsy Treatment Near Me

There are a number of evidence-based treatments that a psychiatric facility can use to support those struggling with narcolepsy. The treatments used will be determined by the symptoms you’re experiencing, and how they affect your overall functioning. Examples of therapies that may be incorporated into your treatment plan include, and are not limited to:

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a therapeutic approach that can help you learn emotion regulation and distress tolerance skills. This can improve your ability to manage stress, and cope with the challenges that you experience because of your narcolepsy. This approach also incorporates mindfulness practices and strengthening your interpersonal relationships. Both of which can support healthy lifestyle changes.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a commonly used treatment approach that can help you become aware of, and challenge negative thought patterns. For some, negative thought patterns can influence narcolepsy symptoms. CBT can help you learn to cope with excessive fatigue, and improve your sleep hygiene behaviors.

Music therapy is a creative therapy approach that can be used to enhance evidence-based approaches. Art therapy can help you with relaxation and reduce stress. You may find that art therapy helps you improve your focus, and improve your overall emotional well-being. This approach can be incorporated into residential mental health treatment programs and outpatient therapy sessions.

Yoga therapy can also be used in addition to traditional treatment methods. Yoga therapy combines the use of mindfulness, particular physical movements, and postures. This can enhance relaxation, and help reduce stress. Many find that when they reduce their stress, the severity of their sleep disruption decreases, and they’re able to cope with the effects of their narcolepsy.

Art therapy is a creative therapy method that can help you tap into emotions and thoughts that have been challenging to express or work through. Art therapy uses a range of art methods including painting, drawing, and sculpting. This can provide you with a new way to explore your feelings, which can reduce emotional distress and help manage narcolepsy triggers.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that can help you learn to accept your narcolepsy diagnosis and your symptoms. Your therapist will help you identify in value-driven activities that you will then begin to regularly engage in. This approach can introduce you to mindfulness skills that can help you manage your narcolepsy symptoms.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) combines the use of mindfulness practices with cognitive therapy techniques. This can help you increase your awareness of thoughts that contribute to your narcolepsy symptoms, including anxiety-driven thoughts. MBCT can be used in both inpatient and outpatient counseling centers for narcolepsy.

Behavioral Activation focuses on increasing the number of meaningful activities that you engage in. This approach can help address lethargy, and improve your overall motivation. BA can help address underlying triggers for your narcolepsy, and help improve your overall quality of life.

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) focuses on helping you improve your communication patterns and your close relationships. This can help address the emotional and psychological effects of your narcolepsy by helping you learn to manage its effects. IPT can address isolation and stress commonly associated with chronic mental health conditions, such as narcolepsy.

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    Find out about our free assessments and admissions process

    We accept most major insurance providers and can check your coverage levels for you.

    If we are not an appropriate provider for care, we will assist in finding a care provider that can help. 

    Does Health Insurance Cover Narcolepsy Therapy and Counseling?

    Yes! Most insurance companies provide insurance coverage for narcolepsy treatment. Your coverage may include medical treatment, residential mental health treatment, outpatient therapy, and medication management services. The details including your coverage rates, limitations, exclusions, and required authorizations are based on the details of your plan.

    If you would like to understand how your behavioral health coverage applies to narcolepsy treatment, we encourage you to complete our insurance verification form. This allows us to contact your insurance carrier and inquire about the details of your coverage.

    Which Health Insurance Providers May Cover Narcolepsy Therapy and Counseling?

    Many popular health insurance companies are known to provide insurance coverage for narcolepsy treatment and therapy services. This includes companies like Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare. It is important to note that each of these carriers have unique products, services, and brands which carry different benefits and coverage options.

    We encourage you to dial (866)478-4383 today for help understanding the details of your insurance policy.

    Does Health Insurance Cover Medications Prescribed for Narcolepsy Treatment?

    Many private health insurance companies offer prescription drug coverage in addition to coverage for behavioral health options. This can help you access affordable narcolepsy medications, including stimulants and sodium oxybate. Some medications may require prior authorization before filling your script.

    Some prescription drug plans may have varying co-pays or require generic options for coverage.

    Emotional man talking to a psychologist at a mental health therapy appointment.

    How Much Does Narcolepsy Therapy Cost With Health Insurance Support?

    The overall cost of narcolepsy therapy and treatment with insurance coverage is dependent on the details of your plan and the care you receive. While insurance can significantly reduce the cost of treatment, you may be responsible for copayments, deductibles, or premiums. Additionally, your plan may require authorization for some mental health care services.

    For a personalized estimate for the cost of therapy and treatment at an AMFM Mental Health Treatment Center, we encourage you to complete our insurance verification form. This allows us to contact your insurance provider and insure about the details of your coverage that would affect your out-of-pocket expenses.

    How Much Does Narcolepsy Treatment Cost Without Health Insurance Coverage?

    Narcolepsy treatment programs can vary in cost. One of the key factors in determining the cost of treatment is the level of care that you receive. Those who are experiencing moderate to severe psychological symptoms can require crisis stabilization or residential care. Residential treatment can cost between $500 to $2,000 per day.

    Other factors that affect the cost of treatment is the location of your treatment center, use of specialized services, and access to luxurious amenities. Outpatient therapy sessions can range from $100 to $200 per session. Outpatient group therapy sessions tend to be more affordable.

    Many find that being familiar with the admission process for AMFM Mental Health Treatment Centers takes away some of the worries or anxiety that can come with this transition. There may be slight variations among our different mental health treatment programs. Continue reading for an overview of our admission process:

    • Initial Contact: The first step is to reach out for help. Our admission counselors will ask about your current symptoms, level of functioning, and for your contact information.
    • Assessment and Evaluation: You’ll work with a trained mental health professional for a comprehensive assessment. This includes exploring your specific symptoms, triggers, underlying conditions, and mental health history.
    • Insurance Verification and Coverage: We will contact your insurance carrier to verify your coverage and inquire about the scope of your coverage.
    • Treatment Plan Development: Our clinical team will develop a personalized treatment plan based on the information learned during your assessment.
    • Admissions Coordination: We will help arrange your admission once the necessary paperwork have been completed.
    • Orientation and Program Introduction: Upon arrival, we will help you acclimate with your new surroundings. This can include a tour and introduction to our multidisciplinary clinical team.
    • Active Participation in Treatment: You will then begin attending treatment as scheduled.
    • Progress Monitoring and Adjustments: We will actively monitor your symptoms and progress throughout your treatment experience to ensure that you receive the care needed to achieve long-term recovery.

    If you have been struggling with sleep disruption, or fragmented nighttime sleep, you may benefit from a narcolepsy treatment program. The search for your ideal treatment provider may require multiple steps, which we have outlined to simplify this process for you.  Continue reading for a guide on finding your ideal narcolepsy treatment provider:

    • Use Search Engines: Search for terms like “Narcolepsy treatment center near me” or “Psychiatric hospital for sleep disturbances in Orange County.” Your generated list will likely include the contact information for your search results. 
    • Explore Online Reviews and Testimonials: Look through the reviews left by previous clients on platforms such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and other specialized mental health websites. Reviews can provide you with insights into the care others received, and if they would recommend treatment providers others. 
    • Check If They Accept Insurance: If you’re planning to use insurance, review the treatment center’s website or contact them directly to inquire about accepted insurance providers. This can help you determine your out-of-pocket expenses for treatment. 
    • Confirm Private Pay Options: Those who are looking to pay out of pocket are encouraged to contact treatment facilities directly and inquire about payment plan options. Some providers offer sliding-scale fees or payment plans for those paying out of pocket.
    • Verify Accreditation: We encourage you to look into the accreditation of the mental health clinics, you’re considering. Trust sources like The Joint Commission or CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities).
    • Check for Evidence-Based Treatments: Mental health treatment programs list the evidence-based approaches used within their program. This can include therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and medication management services.
    • Visit the Location: If you can schedule an in-person visit or a virtual tour, we encourage you to do so. This allows you to see the environment first hand and determine if it would be a good fit for you and your recovery.
    • The Cleveland Clinic indicated that between 90% to 95% of those living with type 1 narcolepsy have a genetic mutation that impairs their immune system.
    • Studies have indicated that the most common treatment settings for those living with narcolepsy include outpatient therapy, hospitalizations, or consulting their primary care physician, respectively.
    • Research has indicated that some of the most common co-existing health conditions. with narcolepsy include sleep apnea, diabetes, obesity, and musculoskeletal symptoms.
    • Approximately 200,000 adults are living with narcolepsy in the United States, according to the Narcolepsy Network.
    • Narcolepsy symptoms can begin in childhood, adolescents, or early adulthood. Additionally, narcolepsy can follow a seasonal pattern. This makes it more common in the spring and early summers.

    Check if your health insurance will cover the cost of mental health treatment.