#512 Sleep Optimization and CBT for Insomnia with Ashley E. Mason, PhD

#512 Sleep Optimization and CBT for Insomnia with Ashley E. Mason, PhD

Author: The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast January 19, 2026 Duration: 2:06:40

What Dreams May Come

Breeze through your next visit for insomnia. Learn how to comfortably approach insomnia and optimize sleep. We touch on specifics such as cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia or the effects of various sleep-related drugs/supplements, and how to taper down from them. We are joined by Ashley E. Mason, PhD (UCSF).

Claim CME for this episode at curbsiders.vcuhealth.org!

Patreon | Episodes | Subscribe | Spotify | YouTube | Newsletter | Contact | Swag! | CME


Show Segments

  • Intro
  • Case
  • Understanding patient’s goals
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia
  • Stimulus control
  • Sleep Hygiene
  • Time-in-bed restriction
  • Impact of different medications/substances on sleep
  • Tapering off medications
  • Outro

Credits

  • Producer and Writer: Matthew Watto MD, FACP
  • Producer, Show Notes, Infographic, and Cover art: Edison Jyang, MD
  • Hosts: Matthew Watto MD, FACP; Paul Williams MD, FACP   
  • Reviewer: Sai S Achi, MD, MBA, FACP
  • Showrunners: Matthew Watto MD, FACP; Paul Williams MD, FACP
  • Technical Production: PodPaste
  • Guest: Ashley E. Mason, PhD


Disclosures

Dr. Mason has disclosed the following:
Financial Relationships: Evolve Global, consulting fee and stock options; Oura Health, consulting fee.

The Curbsiders report no relevant financial disclosures. 

Sponsor: FIGS

Take 15% off your first order at Wearfigs.com with the code FIGSRX.

Sponsor: Continuing Education Company

Visit CMEmeeting.org/curbsiders and use promo code Curb30 for 30% off all online courses and webcasts. 

Sponsor: Mint Mobile
Shop Mint Unlimited Plans at mintmobile.com/CURB. 


Tune in to The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast for a direct line to practical clinical knowledge and the ever-evolving art of patient care. This isn't a dry lecture series; it's a dynamic conversation among practicing physicians who break down complex topics into actionable insights you can use. Each episode delves into the nuances of internal medicine, from managing common chronic conditions to interpreting the latest guidelines and navigating diagnostic dilemmas. You'll hear honest discussions about challenges at the bedside, evidence-based debates, and expert interviews that go beyond textbook summaries to reveal how medicine works in the real world. The podcast serves as both a continuing education resource and a professional companion, offering thoughtful analysis and clinical pearls that resonate whether you're a seasoned hospitalist, a resident in training, or a primary care provider. The focus is consistently on deepening understanding and improving daily practice, making the rounds or the clinic day feel a little less daunting and a lot more informed. Listen for a blend of curiosity, camaraderie, and a genuine commitment to mastering the craft of medicine, all delivered through engaging dialogue that feels like consulting with a trusted colleague.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast
Podcast Episodes
#539 TikTok Trends in Medicine [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:25:26
Peptides, Mouth Tape, Raw Milk & More: What’s Worth the Hype?Learn the evidence on social media wellness trends and how to discuss with your patients (and friends!) without being dismissive (or falling for the hype). Exp…
REBOOT #505 Demystifying Dizziness with Dr. David Hale [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:13:28
We have another classic episode for you. Dizziness can be a daunting presenting symptom. Demystify dizziness with us by breaking it down by timing and triggers, various pertinent physical maneuvers, and even an approach…
#538: More Than a Gut Feeling - DGBIs  with Dr. Iris Wang [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:24:17
All About Disorders of Gut-Brain InteractionMaster disorders of gut–brain interaction. Learn how Rome V changes the diagnosis of IBS and other DGBIs, how to approach chronic diarrhea and the microbiome, and how to choose…
#537 Hyperkalemia and Hypokalemia [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:19:00
I’m Going Bananas for This One!Learn how to formulate a framework while dealing with potassium disorders in patients with varying levels of kidney disease.We’re joined by Dr Joel Topf, (@kidney_boy) to explore how to nav…
#536 Q&Apalooza: Your Addiction Questions Answered! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:17:08
This episode explores complex questions around addiction treatment from our audience, including the off-label use of GLPs for SUDs, the nuances of naloxone, and managing high-dose methadone in hospital settings. Experts…
REBOOT #518: Cardiology Meets Longevity [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:25:41
We have another classic episode for you. Level up your primary prevention game. Learn when ApoB, Lp(a), and CAC actually change management, how to spot cardiometabolic risk before diabetes declares itself, and how to mak…
#534: Supplements in Primary Care [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:19:43
Separating Signal from HypePatients bring us lists. Greens powders, magnesium for everything, vitamin D “for immunity,” fish oil, creatine, curcumin… so how do we separate signals from hype without becoming the office th…
#533: What’s the Tea on Kratom? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:00
Caring for patients using mitragynine-derived substancesFamiliarize yourself with the differences in mitragynine-derived compounds. Understand how to identify and manage kratom use disorder and withdrawal from mitragynin…
#532: Updates in Fibromyalgia Management featuring Dr. Dan Clauw [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:22:17
From Pain to Gain: Diagnosis to Updated Treatment OptionsLearn how to recognize fibromyalgia as a disorder of central pain processing, distinguish it from common mimics, and apply evidence-based strategies for diagnosis…