Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Panic Disorder -

- Case Study

Abstract

This study examines a therapeutic approach for the management of individuals suffering from panic disorder through the use of brief cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques, based on the clinical method (case study) and delivered through limited and concise sessions. The intervention was applied to a male patient experiencing recurrent panic attacks, exceeding three attacks per day. The therapeutic objective was to reduce the severity of panic attacks and subsequently help the patient adapt to and overcome them. This was achieved through five core phases implemented across five therapeutic sessions, followed by a sixth session dedicated to follow-up and evaluation. These phases included cognitive restructuring of the patient’s perceptions of the disorder, discussion of panic-related expectations and description of the attack, experimental induction and control of panic symptoms, reduction of anxiety associated with panic attacks, and finally overcoming avoidance behaviors. The duration of treatment was four weeks, followed by two weeks of follow-up. The results demonstrated a significant improvement, with a reduction in the number of recorded panic attacks to only four attacks over a two-week period, along with improved mood and increased optimism regarding symptom control. Notably, the patient no longer required hospital admission following the intervention, as had been the case prior to treatment.