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Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Panic Disorder: A Review of Treatment Elements, Strategies, and Outcomes

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  07 November 2014

Nadine Recker Rayburn  and
Michael W. Otto
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Abstract

This article provides an overview of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for panic disorder. CBT is currently considered a first-line treatment for panic disorder. It offers benefit after short-term intervention, typically consisting of 12–15 sessions conducted in either an individual or a group format. The treatment focuses on the elimination of the patterns that underlie and perpetuate the disorder. Through CBT, patients learn about the nature of the disorder and acquire a set of strategies that counter the fears of panic attacks themselves, and break the recurring cycle of anticipatory anxiety, panic, and agoraphobic avoidance. The collaborative format of treatment, and a focus on elimination of core fears may be factors in enhancing longer-term outcome. In this article, we review the efficacy of CBT as a first-line treatment, a strategy for medication nonresponders, a replacement strategy for patients who wish to discontinue pharmacotherapy, and a potential preventive strategy for at-risk individuals. We also discuss some of the complex issues involved with combination-treatment strategies.

Type
Review
Information
CNS Spectrums , Volume 8 , Issue 5: Psychosocial Treatment of Anxiety Disorders , May 2003 , pp. 356 - 362
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2003

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