Recent Progress in Treating Panic Disorder

This article explores the evolving understanding and treatment of panic disorder, characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, and persistent fear or behavioral changes. It highlights cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as the gold-standard treatment, emphasizing newer approaches like inhibitory learning and intensive short-term protocols. The piece also discusses how confronting feared sensations is central to recovery and how CBT may positively influence broader psychological processes such as attachment and anxiety sensitivity. Copyright 2025.

After reading the CE Corner article, you will be asked to complete a “Commitment-to-Change” (CTC) exercise. The CTC exercise is designed to help facilitate the translation of your learning into practice. Completion of the CTC is required prior to the completion of the CE Test based on the APA Monitor CE Corner article.

This product is not included in the APA Unlimited CE program.

New York state psychologists: This program is not currently in compliance with the unique requirements imposed by the New York State Board of Education for New York licensed psychologists CE.

• Define panic disorder and list key symptoms of panic attacks.
• Explain why confronting the symptoms of a panic attack is a key part of treatment.
• Discuss potential benefits of cognitive treatments on other psychological processes, such as attachment.

Stephanie Pappas