Our Blog: Upward Alabama

Supporting Healthcare Providers: The Legacy of Dr. Lorna Breen and Upward Behavioral Health’s Evidence-Based Approach

By Susan Rathmell, Ph.D., ABPP

Healthcare Providers

Workplace Stress

Posted: February 21, 2026

Healthcare providers are the backbone of Alabama’s communities, offering expertise and compassion in times of need. Yet the emotional and physical demands of their roles often place them at heightened risk for mental health challenges. Upward Behavioral Health’s team brings years of experience and specialized training. This expertise translates into higher rates of successful outcomes, faster symptom relief, and greater satisfaction among healthcare provider clients.

Is Your Mind Keeping You Up at Night? How Therapy Helps You Unwind

Posted: February 19, 2026

If you struggle to fall asleep, stay asleep, or wake up feeling wired and restless, there is often more happening than just “not being tired enough.” Insomnia is usually connected to patterns in the brain and nervous system that can be changed. Sleep is not...

Integrating Medication Tapering into Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)

By Courtney Worley, Ph.D., ABPP, DBSM, M.P.H.

Insomnia Evidence-Based Psychotherapy Sleep

Posted: February 7, 2026

For many patients, prescription sleep aids—such as benzodiazepines, Z-drugs, or other sedative-hypnotics—are the first line of defense against insomnia. While these medications can provide short-term relief, long-term reliance can lead to dependence, tolerance, or diminished effectiveness. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is widely recognized as the gold standard for treating chronic insomnia, and research increasingly supports the integration of a structured medication taper with CBT-I for sustainable results. This comprehensive overview explores the rationale, strategies, and benefits of combining medication tapering with CBT-I, culminating in a practical case example and an invitation to partner with Upward Behavioral Health for expert support in your insomnia recovery journey.

Plan for Good Mental Health

By Misti Norton, Ph.D., DBSM

Self-Care ADHD Autism Stress

Posted: February 7, 2026

As we approached the new year, I saw a few jokes about how it was now time to buy the annual notebook that would change your life. Now, as the calendar turns to February, I see posts suggesting that many people have already abandoned their planners—and their goals—for the year. It’s easy to conclude that planning doesn’t work and that you might as well give up on the life you desire. Here’s the good news: you can start working toward good mental health just as effectively in February, April, July, or even December as you can in January.