Find a Panic Disorder and Panic Attacks Therapist

Understanding panic disorder and panic attacks

Panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that often peak within minutes. They can include physical sensations such as a racing heart, breathlessness, dizziness, sweating and trembling, alongside feelings of detachment or a fear of losing control. When these attacks recur and lead to persistent worry about having more episodes or changes in behaviour to avoid triggers, the experience may be described as panic disorder. Panic can affect sleep, work, relationships and daily routines, and many people find it isolating or distressing.

How panic episodes may affect you

Everyone's experience is different. You might notice that panic attacks come out of the blue, or that they follow stress, illness or particular situations. Some people begin to avoid places or activities that they associate with past attacks. Others develop safety behaviours such as carrying medication or always staying close to exits. These responses can feel protective in the short term but may reinforce anxiety over time. Recognising these patterns is an important step in understanding how panic is affecting your life.

Signs that therapy could help

You might consider looking for a counsellor if panic attacks are frequent, if you are worried about when or where an attack might happen, or if you are changing your routines to avoid potential triggers. If panic affects your work, study or social life, or if it prevents you from doing things you value, therapy can offer ways to regain control. It is also sensible to consult your GP if you experience new or severe physical symptoms, to rule out other causes and to discuss treatment options as part of a broader plan.

What to expect in therapy sessions for panic disorder

A typical course of therapy begins with an assessment where you and your counsellor explore your history, current symptoms and goals. This is a collaborative process and you will be encouraged to share what has helped or hindered you in the past. Early sessions usually focus on psychoeducation - understanding the link between thoughts, physical sensations and behaviour - and on developing immediate tools to manage intense moments. You can expect to work on practical strategies during sessions and to be given exercises to practise between meetings, which help you apply new skills in real life.

Assessment and goal setting

During the assessment your counsellor will ask about the frequency and pattern of attacks, any avoidance behaviours and how panic affects daily living. Together you will set realistic goals - perhaps to reduce avoidance, to manage symptoms during an attack or to rebuild confidence in certain situations. These goals guide the course of therapy and are reviewed as you progress.

Ongoing sessions and relapse planning

As therapy continues you may work on exposure exercises that are graded and supported. The aim is to reduce the power that sensations or situations have over you by facing them in a structured way while using coping strategies. Near the end of therapy you will often develop a plan to maintain progress and respond to setbacks, which helps you consolidate gains and know when to seek further support if needed.

Therapeutic approaches commonly used

Cognitive behavioural therapy, known as CBT, is frequently used for panic disorder because it helps you recognise how thoughts and behaviours maintain anxiety and offers practical techniques to change those patterns. Interoceptive exposure - exercises that safely reproduce physical sensations similar to panic - is a specific CBT element that can reduce fear of bodily cues. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, or ACT, focuses on changing your relationship with anxious thoughts and increasing engagement with valued activities despite discomfort. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques are often integrated to help you manage arousal. If panic is linked to past trauma, some counsellors may draw on trauma-informed approaches to address underlying issues. Your counsellor should explain the rationale for any method they use and agree a plan that fits your needs.

How online therapy works for panic disorder and panic attacks

Online therapy can be an effective option if you prefer to meet from home or if leaving the house is difficult because of avoidance or agoraphobic patterns. Sessions typically take place via video call or telephone, and some therapists also offer secure messaging or structured online programmes alongside live sessions. Before a first video appointment your counsellor will agree practical arrangements with you - session length, frequency and contact between sessions - and discuss how to create a comfortable setting for your work together. It is important to have a quiet space and a reliable internet connection so you can focus and practise techniques in the moment if needed.

How to choose the right therapist for panic disorder

Look for a counsellor who lists panic disorder or anxiety as a specific area of practice and who holds recognised registration with a UK body such as the BACP, HCPC or NCPS. Check their training and whether they are accredited or have specialist qualifications in CBT, trauma work or anxiety disorders. Read profile information about their therapeutic approach and experience, and consider practical factors such as fees, session times and whether they offer online appointments. It can help to book an initial consultation to gauge whether their style and manner suit you - therapy is a personal relationship and feeling understood and respected matters.

Questions to consider before you book

When you contact a counsellor you might ask how they approach panic attacks, whether they use interoceptive exposure or other CBT techniques, and how they support clients between sessions. You can enquire about their experience with online therapy and any accessibility needs you have. If medication is being considered as part of your plan, ask how they work with GPs or psychiatrists to coordinate care. Trust your judgement: if a counsellor's approach does not feel like a good fit after a few sessions you are within your rights to discuss changes or to seek another professional.

Taking the next step

Searching for a counsellor can feel challenging, but finding someone who understands panic disorder and who you feel comfortable with makes a meaningful difference. Use the profiles in the listings below to compare qualifications, therapeutic styles and availability. Booking a short introductory session or phone call can give you a clearer sense of whether a counsellor is the right match, and from there you can begin a focused plan to manage panic and rebuild confidence. Help is available and taking the first step is a practical move toward feeling more in control.