We need to get an understanding of the reality your client finds themselves in when it comes to their sleep. This step is often done before setting any goals. Open up conversation about sleep patterns and difficulties, this will help you to understand your clients issues and also builds rapport as you demonstrate your listening skills and empathy.
With Your Client
Ask about their current habits, bedtime routines (if any), what time they go to bed, their thoughts, worries and anxieties they hold around sleep and bedtime, what their sleep patterns are like. You can ask them to keep a track of their sleep and what they do or don’t do, without changing anything, to get a baseline of their current situation when it comes to sleep.
You can have a conversation around the use of caffeine, alcohol, food consumption, partners, pets, the bedroom environment… you are wanting to find out as much information as you can. This helps with setting goals.
You can also check in with the reality of a goal which has been set.
Is it feasible?
Does it fit in with their lifestyle?
Do they need to shift priorities?
Do they need to have a conversation with a partner and/or family members?
Do they need to establish boundaries and communicate them to others?