Panic attacks are frightening, physically overwhelming, and highly treatable.
A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear that peaks within minutes and brings strong physical symptoms with it: a racing heart, shortness of breath, chest tightness, dizziness, sweating, or a sense of unreality. Many people experiencing a first panic attack believe they are having a heart attack, and a significant number arrive at an emergency department before they ever reach a therapist.
Panic disorder develops when the attacks themselves become the thing you fear. Life narrows around avoiding another one: certain roads, crowded rooms, exercise, being far from home, being alone. That narrowing is the part treatment targets most directly.
You do not need to meet every criterion, or to have a formal diagnosis, to benefit from treatment.
Cognitive behavioral therapy for panic disorder is one of the most well-supported treatments in mental health, and it works in a specific sequence.
First, we explain the physiology. Panic symptoms are the body’s alarm system firing when there is no actual danger, and every symptom has a mechanical explanation. Understanding this removes a great deal of the fear on its own.
Second, we address the catastrophic interpretation. The thought is rarely “I feel uncomfortable.” It is “I am going to collapse” or “I am losing my mind.” We test those predictions against what actually happens.
Third, we work with the sensations directly. Interoceptive exposure involves deliberately bringing on mild versions of the physical sensations you fear, in a controlled way, so your system learns they are uncomfortable rather than dangerous. Finally, we gradually return to the places and activities that have been avoided.
Consider reaching out if panic attacks are recurring, if you have begun avoiding situations to prevent them, or if worry about the next attack is shaping your daily decisions. Treatment is most straightforward before the avoidance has spread widely, but it is effective at any stage.
If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or go to your nearest emergency department. This practice does not provide emergency or crisis services.
Panic disorder is one of the faster-responding anxiety presentations. Many people notice a meaningful reduction in the frequency and intensity of attacks within the first several weeks, with a typical focused course running 12 to 16 sessions.
It is worth having had a medical evaluation to rule out other causes of the symptoms, and most people have. Once that is done, continuing to seek medical reassurance often becomes part of the cycle rather than a solution, and that is something we address in treatment.
Yes. Much of the work translates well to video sessions, and practising new responses in your own environment can be an advantage. Sessions are available online throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island, or in person in Newton.
No. CBT and medication are frequently used together. Any decision about medication is made with your prescribing clinician, and treatment here can proceed either way.
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