WSVN -- The job, school, family, friends, money -- the stress we feel during the day can make sleeping an absolute nightmare.

Scott Lee: "For about two years, I could not sleep. I tried every over the counter product there was. Went to my doctor, got prescriptions still nothing helped."

And like many, the sleeplessness was taking a toll on Scott’s life.

Scott Lee: "I was always tired -- could not concentrate sometimes -- and the more I didn't sleep -- I got more stressed and irritable about certain things."

With nothing to lose except more sleep, he decided to try a form of behavioral therapy which includes hypnosis.

Certified Hypnotist Basil Papanastassiou: "In only one or two sessions someone can learn to fall asleep, remain asleep, get a good night sleep and wake refreshed and relaxed the next day."

Scott Lee: "Very skeptical -- this was like the last hope."

The therapy involves finding the root problem. For Scott, work and law school worries -- then giving patients word triggers to help them relax when they want to sleep.

Basil Papanastassiou: "It clears the mind and gives them peace -- which is the precursor to falling a sleep."

Though pills are more popular -- recent studies suggest that therapies like this should be the first line of treatment for insomnia.

Basil Papanastassiou: "We have a 90 percent success rate."

But patients have to be open to the treatment.

Hypnotist to Scott: "When I count to three you're gonna be totally awake -- full of energy -- feeling wonderful -- one two three."

One session made Scott a believer.

Scott Lee: "It worked the first night I tried it."

And it's a difference between night and day.

Scott Lee: "I sleep very well now. Now I get up I'm ready to go. It's wonderful. I'm a happier person. I perform better at work. I perform better at school cause my mind is sharp and ready."

The therapy costs $200 dollars for an hour session. Most people need no more than two. It's currently not covered by insurance.

Contact: mmitzel@wsvn.com