Panic attacks can feel terrifying, and the fear of having another one can start running your life. Even after an attack is over, you may find yourself worrying about when the next one will happen, scanning your body for signs that something is wrong, or avoiding places and situations where you're afraid you might panic. Over time, your life can become increasingly organized around trying not to have another panic attack.

In my clinical experience, EMDR can be particularly helpful for addressing the frightening experiences, physical sensations, and fears that keep the cycle of panic going.

How does EMDR work for panic attacks?

I use a specific EMDR protocol developed for treating panic attacks and panic disorder. In therapy, we will focus on the experiences that are contributing to the panic cycle, which may include memories of the first and worst panic attacks, and the fear of what might happen if you have another one. We also work on reducing the fear that keeps the panic cycle going, so that the sensations or situations you've learned to fear no longer have the same hold over you.