CBT for panic
Cognitive behavioral therapy helps you understand the cycle between physical sensations, frightening interpretations and avoidance. You practice responding differently to sensations and situations that have become linked with fear.
Adults, 18 and overIn person in West Hartford
Panic attack treatment in West Hartford, CT
Panic attacks can bring a sudden rush of fear and intense physical symptoms. If attacks keep happening or fear of another attack is limiting your life, we offer in-person evaluation and treatment for adults in West Hartford.
In person
Adult care at our West Hartford office
Adults 18 and overCare focused on your needs and goals
Licensed cliniciansTherapy and psychiatric medication care
Coordinated treatmentYour clinicians work together on your plan
A place to beginYou can request an evaluation directly
New or severe physical symptoms need medical attention
If you have new or severe chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, or symptoms that could be a medical emergency, call 911. Do not assume they are caused by panic.
How we can help
Treatment starts with understanding your experience and choosing a plan together.
Gradual exposure with a clinician
Treatment may include carefully planned practice with feared situations or body sensations. Your clinician explains the purpose, considers your health history and works with you on a manageable plan. You do not need to provoke symptoms on your own before an appointment.
Medication when helpful
A prescriber may recommend medication, such as an SSRI or SNRI, based on your needs and history. We discuss how long benefits may take, potential side effects and follow-up. Medication can be combined with therapy.
Your first visit
A conversation about what has been happening and what you would like to change.
What we discuss
We discuss what happens during an attack, whether it is unexpected, what you have started avoiding and any previous medical evaluation. Bring a medication list and information about caffeine or other substances that may affect symptoms. The plan may include coordination with a medical clinician when physical causes need further assessment.
Planning the next step
We explain the options, answer your questions and discuss follow-up based on your needs. You can ask about benefits, possible risks and other approaches before making a decision.
All visits are in person at 10 Princeton St, Ste N, West Hartford, CT 06110. We do not offer telehealth.
Understanding panic disorder
An evaluation considers the full picture, including other concerns that may overlap.
Panic attacks and panic disorder
A panic attack is a sudden surge of fear or discomfort with strong physical symptoms. Panic disorder involves repeated unexpected attacks and ongoing worry or changes in behavior because of them. Having one attack does not automatically mean you have panic disorder.
Why an assessment matters
Symptoms such as a racing heart, dizziness and chest discomfort can have more than one cause. A clinician considers physical health as well as anxiety. Once the pattern is understood, treatment can address both the attacks and the fear of having another one.
Signs you may recognize
These examples can help you describe what you are experiencing. They are not a self-diagnosis.
Common experiences
- A sudden racing heart, sweating or trembling
- Shortness of breath, dizziness or nausea
- Feeling detached from yourself or your surroundings
- Fear of losing control during an attack
- Avoiding travel, exercise or places because another attack might happen
When to reach out
If symptoms are affecting daily life, relationships or your ability to look after yourself, it is reasonable to ask for support. You do not need to be certain about a diagnosis before contacting us.
Notes about when symptoms happen, what makes them better or worse, and what you have already tried can help start the conversation.
Request an appointmentQuestions about panic disorder
Practical answers to help you decide on your next step.
Are panic attacks dangerous?
Panic attacks themselves are not life-threatening, but similar symptoms can come from medical problems. New, severe or unusual chest pain, breathing difficulty or other possible emergency symptoms need urgent medical assessment.
What if I have only had one attack?
An evaluation can still be helpful, especially if you are worried about another attack or changing your routine because of it. One attack alone does not establish panic disorder.
Can treatment help with avoidance?
Yes. Treatment can help you gradually return to activities you have stopped doing. The pace and exercises are planned with your clinician and adjusted as needed.
Should I bring records from an emergency visit?
If you have them, records can help us understand what has already been assessed. A previous evaluation does not mean every new physical symptom should be assumed to be panic.
Are appointments in person or online?
All appointments are in person at our West Hartford office for adults 18 and over. We do not offer telehealth.
Do I need a referral, and how do I check cost?
You can request an appointment directly. Insurance requirements vary, so the office can help check whether your plan requires a referral or authorization and discuss expected costs. Contact us about coverage or self-pay before scheduling.
Related care and information
Explore a service or concern that may be part of your care.
Sources: NIMH: Panic disorder. This page provides general information. Your clinician can help determine what applies to you.
Care starts with a conversation
Contact our West Hartford office to request an in-person visit. You can tell us what has been difficult and ask about the next step.