Chronic insomnia is a debilitating condition linked to medical issues, mental health disorders like depression, substance abuse, PTSD, and suicide, and workplace challenges such as absenteeism and accidents. It carries a significant financial burden, with civilian costs ranging from $92 to $107 billion annually. Effective interventions, like cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI), can enhance quality of life, reduce healthcare costs, and lower other indirect costs. However, most military personnel rely on hypnotic medications, which carry side effects—grogginess, slower reaction times, and impaired cognitive function—that are especially concerning during deployments. In contrast, CBTI has proven more effective than medication for active-duty service members, veterans, and civilians, offering better long-term outcomes. Despite this, there is a shortage of trained CBTI providers due to limited training availability, high costs, and time constraints.

Currently, provider training is largely limited to treatment manuals, in-person workshops, or webinars, none of which allow for widespread, cost-effective dissemination. Similarly, trauma-related nightmares, vivid and distressing dreams that replay traumatic events, are highly prevalent among those with PTSD (affecting 50-70%) and military personnel. Individuals with nightmares often experience worsened physical health, PTSD symptoms, substance use, and increased suicide risk—all of which compromise military readiness and quality of life. Over 260,000 active-duty service members and 90,000 National Guard members are estimated to suffer from untreated chronic nightmares.

Cognitive behavioral therapy for nightmares (CBTN) is an effective intervention endorsed by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, but there are limited training opportunities, leaving many without access to care. Addressing this gap is crucial for both military readiness and improving veterans' and service members' well-being.