Treatment for Panic

At Northart Counseling, I am committed to providing effective treatments for panic disorder, empowering you to regain control and live a fulfilling life. Panic disorder is characterized by sudden and repeated episodes of intense fear, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, or abdominal distress. These episodes, known as panic attacks, can lead to persistent worry about future attacks and avoidance of situations where attacks have occurred. 

Common symptoms of panic disorder include:

• Physical Symptoms: Rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, or dizziness.

• Feeling of Loss of Control: A sensation of detachment or fear of "going crazy" during an attack.

• Sudden and Repeated Panic Attacks: Intense episodes of fear or discomfort that peak within minutes.

• Avoidance Behaviors: Steering clear of places or situations where previous attacks have occurred.
   
• Persistent Concern: Ongoing worry about experiencing additional panic attacks.

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a highly effective, evidence-based treatment for panic disorder. ERP involves gradually and systematically exposing you to the sensations and situations that trigger your panic attacks, while simultaneously preventing the avoidance behaviors or safety rituals typically used to reduce anxiety. This process helps you confront and habituate to panic-inducing stimuli, reducing their power over time. 

• Gradual Exposure: Safely confronting feared sensations and situations to diminish their impact.
   
• Response Prevention: Learning to resist the urge to engage in avoidance or safety behaviors.
   
• Cognitive Restructuring: Identifying and challenging maladaptive thoughts associated with panic.
   
• Skill Building: Developing coping strategies to manage anxiety and prevent future attacks.
   
• Empowerment: Gaining confidence in your ability to face and overcome panic-inducing situations.

ERP is one of the most researched and effective treatments for panic, helping many people break the cycle of fear and avoidance through structured, supportive exposure work. 

At Northart Counseling, I integrate ERP with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to enhance psychological flexibility and resilience. This approach transforms the discomfort of exposures into a meaningful journey toward recovery. By facing your fears directly and mindfully, you can reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks and reclaim your life.