Panic Disorder is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, which are intense episodes of fear and discomfort. These attacks are often accompanied by physical symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, and feelings of impending doom. People with panic disorder often live in constant fear of having another attack, which can significantly affect your daily life and overall well-being.

Fortunately, panic disorder is highly treatable, and mental health therapy plays a crucial role in helping individuals manage and reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. At Still Minds Psychology in Fort Lauderdale, FL, we specialize in Exposure-Based Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for panic disorder and related phobias. One of the most effective tools we use is Exposure Therapy—gradually and safely confronting the sensations and situations that trigger panic so your brain learns there’s no real danger.

I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is widely considered the gold standard for treating panic disorder. Using this, I’ll help you learn to identify irrational thoughts, or "cognitive distortions," that fuel panic attacks, such as "I can’t breathe" or "I’m going to die." These thoughts often exaggerate the physical sensations experienced during a panic attack, leading to more fear. Once we are able challenge and reframe them, replacing them with more balanced and realistic thoughts, it helps significantly lessen the anxiety. But we don’t stop there. I then incorporate exposure therapy, to help you gradually face situations or physical sensations that trigger panic attacks, helping them become desensitized over time. This helps break the cycle of fear and avoidance, a common pattern in panic disorder.

Exposure therapy is a structured and proven way to help you retrain your body’s fear response. Instead of avoiding panic sensations or triggers, you intentionally face them in small, controlled steps.

This process—known as interoceptive and situational exposure—teaches your nervous system that those feelings of dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or breathlessness aren’t actually harmful. Over time, your body stops overreacting, and your confidence grows.

Why Exposure Works

Avoidance may feel safe in the moment, but it keeps the panic cycle alive. When you avoid driving, public places, or exercise, your brain never learns that those situations—and the sensations that come with them—are not dangerous.

What to Expect:

In CBT for panic disorder, sessions typically last for 12 to 16 weeks. Each session may involve exercises to practice between appointments, such as breathing techniques or cognitive restructuring (changing negative thought patterns). Over time, individuals learn to control their panic symptoms and reduce their fear of future attacks.

How Exposure Therapy Works for Panic Disorder:

• Controlled Exposure: For individuals with panic disorder, exposure might involve confronting specific situations that provoke anxiety, such as being in crowded places, taking an elevator, or experiencing physical sensations like a racing heart.

• Gradual Process: Exposure typically starts with less anxiety-provoking situations and progressively moves to more challenging ones. This approach helps individuals build tolerance to discomfort and reduce their fear of future attacks.

• Learning New Associations: Over time, exposure therapy helps individuals create new, less fearful associations with the things that trigger panic, reducing their overall anxiety.

• Exposure therapy helps reverse that pattern by:
  ✅ Desensitizing your body’s panic response
  ✅ Building tolerance for uncomfortable sensations
  ✅ Reconnecting you to activities and places you’ve been avoiding
  ✅ Restoring control and confidence in your daily life

Overcoming Panic Disorder with Therapy

Panic disorder is a treatable condition, and with the right therapy, many individuals experience significant improvement or full recovery. I will guide you into finding the right approach for you. Therapy can help you learn to manage your symptoms, break the cycle of fear, and regain control of your life. If you’re experiencing panic attacks, contact me for a free 15 minute call to start your journey toward recovery today.