Panic Attack Therapists
Panic attacks can feel overwhelming and frightening, but effective support is available. Connect with therapists who understand panic on First Session.
Panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms like racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, or chest tightness. They can happen unexpectedly or in response to certain triggers, and the fear of having another attack can significantly impact daily life. Many people who experience panic attacks feel isolated or ashamed, but they're more common than you might think.
Working with a therapist can help you understand what's happening in your body during panic, develop strategies for managing attacks when they occur, and address underlying factors that may be contributing to them. Therapy can also help reduce the anticipatory anxiety that often develops around panic. On First Session, you can browse therapist profiles and watch intro videos to find someone who feels like the right fit for you.
Renata Paula da Silva Roma
Renata Paula da Silva Roma
Cassandre Quan
Cassandre Quan
Khysandra Lee
Khysandra Lee
Wendy van Es
Wendy van Es
Mark Peterson
Mark Peterson
Dennis Keefe
Dennis Keefe
Lauren McCarley
Lauren McCarley
Anka Krivokuca
Anka Krivokuca
Alicia Panchal
Alicia Panchal
Margaret Hux
Margaret Hux
Jupiter Vaughan
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Jupiter Vaughan
Christy McLeod
Christy McLeod
Therapy is hard work.
A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes. Physical symptoms can include rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, and feelings of unreality or detachment. Many people experiencing a panic attack for the first time worry they're having a heart attack or medical emergency. While panic attacks are deeply uncomfortable, they are not physically dangerous.
Therapy may be helpful if you've experienced one or more panic attacks, live in fear of having another attack, have started avoiding places or situations because of panic, or find that anxiety about panic is affecting your quality of life. It's also valuable if you're unsure whether what you're experiencing is panic and want to understand your symptoms better.
Therapy for panic attacks often involves understanding what happens in your body during panic, learning techniques to manage symptoms when they arise, and gradually reducing avoidance behaviours. Many therapists use approaches that help you change your relationship with panic sensations so they feel less threatening. Sessions typically proceed at a pace that feels manageable for you.
Many people notice improvement in their panic symptoms within several weeks to a few months of focused therapy. The exact duration depends on factors like how long you've been experiencing panic, whether there are other issues to address, and your individual response to therapy. Your therapist can help you understand what to expect based on your situation.
Finding a therapist who has experience with panic and anxiety and who feels calm and reassuring can be especially helpful. On First Session, you can watch therapist intro videos to get a sense of their personality and approach before booking. Notice whether they seem understanding and like someone who could help you feel safe.
Browse therapists on First Session who work with panic attacks and anxiety, watch their intro videos, and book directly online when you find someone who feels like a good match. Both online and in-person sessions are typically available.