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Looking for a CBT-I app for insomnia?

CBT-I is the gold-standard treatment for chronic insomnia — but not every approach fits every person. RestWise offers a calmer, ACT-I-based alternative that focuses on acceptance rather than thought restructuring. Evidence-based, no account required. Try free for 7 days, then $29.99 lifetime.

Try RestWise Free for 7 Days

CBT-I vs ACT-I — what's the difference?

Both CBT-I and ACT-I are evidence-based approaches to insomnia. They share many goals but take different paths to get there.

CBT-I ACT-I (RestWise)
Core approach Challenge and restructure unhelpful sleep thoughts Observe and accept thoughts, reduce the struggle
Sleep restriction Often includes strict sleep scheduling Focuses on values and flexibility, not rigid schedules
Tone Structured, goal-driven Gentle, acceptance-focused
Best for Those who want direct behavioral protocols Those who find pressure and tracking makes sleep worse

What RestWise gives you

A 30-day guided ACT-I program designed to help you change your relationship with sleep — not fight it.

Guided ACT-I lessons

Short daily lessons covering acceptance, defusion, values, and mindful awareness around sleep and rest.

Defusion practice

A dedicated tool to step back from racing nighttime thoughts without suppressing or fighting them.

No tracking pressure

No sleep scores, streaks, or ratings. The focus is on building skills, not measuring performance.

Private by default

Everything stays on your device. No account, no cloud sync, no data collection.

Medical disclaimer: RestWise is an educational self-help app and is not a medical device or a substitute for professional CBT-I therapy or clinical care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a CBT-I app?

A CBT-I app delivers Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia digitally — typically including sleep restriction protocols, stimulus control, and cognitive restructuring exercises. CBT-I is considered the first-line clinical treatment for chronic insomnia.

Is RestWise a CBT-I app?

Not exactly. RestWise is based on ACT-I (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Insomnia), which is a related but distinct evidence-based approach. Rather than restructuring sleep thoughts, ACT-I teaches you to defuse from them and reduce the anxiety loop that keeps insomnia going.

Is ACT-I as effective as CBT-I?

Research supports ACT-I as an effective intervention for insomnia, especially for people who find CBT-I's techniques feel effortful or anxiety-provoking. It is not a replacement for clinical care, but many people find it a sustainable and gentler fit.

How much does RestWise cost?

RestWise includes a free 7-day trial. After that, it's a one-time $29.99 lifetime purchase — no subscription, no recurring fees.

Also looking for a Sleep School replacement?

If Sleep School shut down and you're looking for a replacement, RestWise covers similar ground. Read our Sleep School alternative guide →