Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective first-line treatment option for individuals experiencing panic disorder. CBT is a type of psychotherapy utilized to help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. It focuses on modifying individuals’ thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to improve their overall emotional well-being (Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG), 2022). CBT can also be used in conjunction with medication if therapy alone is not successful. According to Reddy et al. (2020), psychoeducation, interoceptive exposure, cognitive restructuring, and in vivo exposure to the stimuli that are feared are the critical components of CBT for panic disorder. Psychoeducation is essential for our patients to have a clear understanding of their panic disorder. Understanding their disorder can help alleviate fear and anxiety. Interoceptive exposure induces psychical sensations in a controlled environment that are associated with the identified triggers of the patient’s panic attacks. Repeatedly experiencing these sensations and learning that they are not harmful reduces the fear, anxiety, and avoidance of situations associated with them (Psychology Tools, 2023).Cognitive restructuring aims to change the patient’s beliefs and thoughts about the feelings and the perceived danger (Crum, 2021). In vivo exposure entails having the patient directly face the fears that cause their panic attacks (Reddy et al., 2020). These specific CBT techniques encourage individuals to develop healthy, effective coping mechanisms that will hopefully alleviate their anxiety, fear, terror, and avoidance. Collaboration with the patient to find techniques that work best for them in managing their panic disorder is essential.
