The Washington Center for Cognitive Therapy – Panic Attacks

Panic Attacks

Panic is the unexpected upsurge of intense fear usually accompanied by distressing physical symptoms, such as chest pain, rapid heartbeat, choking or smothering sensations, dizzy sensations, and gastrointestinal discomfort.  In the throes of a panic attack, the person believes he/she may die or lose control of his/her mind.  After the panic subsides, there is often a strong residual fear of the physical sensations associated with panic.  There is a tendency to avoid any situations that might bring on feelings of panic.  Fear of bodily sensations and a compromised lifestyle are often the regrettable consequences of panic episodes.

Cognitive Therapy for Panic Attacks 

     The essence of panic disorder is the misinterpretation of benign bodily sensations (e.g. rapid heartbeat, dizziness) as dangerous signs of impending catastrophe.  We educate clients about their bodily sensations so they can re-evaluate their exaggerated thinking.  We then teach clients how to safely elicit the dreaded bodily sensations and practice their more realistic thinking in the presence of the feared sensations.  This enables them to recognize they are not in danger and consequently stops their panic attacks.