Therapy for Panic Attacks
Working through the fear that comes with racing physical sensations.
Starting the Conversation
Describing What Panic Feels Like
A first session about panic attacks usually starts with describing what happens in your body and mind when one occurs, such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, or a wave of fear that something is seriously wrong.
Your therapist will ask when panic attacks tend to happen, how often, and what you have already tried. You do not need a complete pattern figured out before your first appointment.
Physical Sensations
When Fear Focuses on the Body
Panic attacks often bring intense physical sensations that can feel alarming on their own, separate from whatever triggered them. Many people become afraid of the sensations themselves, worrying about what a racing heart or tight chest might mean.
Talking through these sensations in session, including what you notice physically and what thoughts come with them, is part of understanding your particular pattern of panic.
Fear of the Next One
Worry About the Next Attack
Along with the attacks themselves, many people develop a fear of having another one, which can shape daily decisions well beyond the moments when panic actually occurs.
Your therapist can help you talk through this fear directly, including how much it influences your choices and how it feels to carry that worry day to day.
Avoiding Places
When Avoiding Places Becomes a Pattern
Fear of another panic attack can lead to avoiding certain places or situations, which sometimes grows over time.
- Avoiding driving on highways or certain routes
- Staying away from crowded stores or events
- Skipping work meetings or social gatherings
- Leaving a situation early out of worry about panic
A CBT Approach
Using CBT to Work with Panic
CBT is often used to work with panic, looking at the thoughts that come up around physical sensations and gradually working through situations that have been avoided.
Your therapist moves at a pace that fits you, discussing each step before trying it and checking in on how it went afterward. You decide together which situations to approach first.
Checking With a Doctor
Discussing Physical Symptoms with a Doctor
A racing heart, chest discomfort, or dizziness should not automatically be attributed to panic. Check physical symptoms with a doctor, particularly when they are new or different. Therapy does not replace a medical evaluation.
You can tell your therapist what your doctor has discussed and ask how that information relates to the concerns you bring. Sessions can address fear about sensations without assuming what caused them.
Who You Can See
Therapists and Session Format
A therapist on our team is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, California License #120707. A therapist on our team is a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #144060. Registered associate. Provides services under the clinical supervision of a licensed clinician. Both use CBT with adults.
For office visits, come to 191 Sand Creek Road, Suite 230, Brentwood, CA 94513. Video is available while located in California. Session fees are shared during your free consultation.
Next Step
Ask About a Free Phone Consultation
To ask about therapy for panic attacks, call (925) 331-0457 for a free 15-minute phone consultation. General scheduling inquiries can go to info@heartnmindcounseling.com. Avoid putting clinical details in email; describe your concerns in a conversation about care instead.
Common Questions
Should I See a Doctor Too?
Your therapist may encourage checking with your doctor to rule out other physical causes for symptoms. This works alongside therapy, not in place of it.
Will I Have to Face Avoided Places Right Away?
No. Your therapist moves at a pace that fits you, discussing each step before trying it and checking in afterward.
Can We Talk About Fear Between Attacks?
Yes. Describe how anticipation affects daily choices, including leaving early or avoiding places. You and your therapist can discuss which concern to begin with.
