Understanding Panic Disorder
Sudden, overwhelming panic attacks that arrive without warning.
Panic is a nervous system false alarm. We combine therapy to retrain the alarm response, medication when appropriate, and lifestyle work to steady the underlying physiology — so the attacks lose their grip.
Panic Disorder care at a glance
- Who we treat
- Adults 18+
- Where
- In person in Scottsdale, AZ · Telehealth in AZ, NY, KS, MN, OR, WA
- Insurance
- Commercial insurance accepted for psychiatry and therapy
- Care team
- Psychiatry, therapy, and primary care clinicians working as one team — not a single provider
How it shows up
Panic attacks are sudden, intense surges of fear that peak within minutes — racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, a sense of doom. The fear of the next attack can become as limiting as the attacks themselves.
What's driving it
Panic is a nervous-system false alarm. Therapy to retrain the alarm response, medication when appropriate, and lifestyle work to steady the underlying physiology all help — so the attacks lose their grip and the fear of them recedes.
When to seek help
If you're having sudden episodes of fear with physical symptoms, or avoiding places for fear of one, treatment is very effective. Panic disorder is one of the most responsive anxiety conditions to therapy.
Who We Typically See
Someone who has had an attack so intense they thought it was a heart attack, and maybe went to the ER. Now they're scared of the next one, avoiding driving, crowds, or being far from home. It's one of the most treatable conditions we see.
Treatment Options at a Glance
Calm the body, retrain the alarm.
Some options blunt the physical surge in the moment. Others prevent attacks from coming back. Most people do best with both.
Propranolol
What it targets
The physical surge: racing heart, shaking, adrenaline.
Calms the body’s alarm so the mind can follow. Non-habit-forming.
SSRIs & SNRIs
What it targets
Frequency and intensity of attacks over time.
The long-term preventive foundation.
Benzodiazepines
What it targets
Rapid relief during severe episodes.
Used short-term and carefully when clinically appropriate, as a bridge rather than a long-term plan.
Hydroxyzine
What it targets
As-needed relief without dependence risk.
A safer rescue option for many patients.
Panic-focused CBT
What it targets
Fear of the sensations themselves.
Interoceptive exposure teaches your body that a racing heart isn’t danger.
Options are prescribed only when clinically appropriate, after evaluation by a licensed provider.
The evidence
About 2–3% of adults experience panic disorder; CBT with exposure is highly effective.
Source: Kessler et al., 2006
Quick Self-Check
Could it be Panic Disorder?
Answer a few questions to see whether your responses point toward Panic Disorder or toward something else. Either way, we'll help you take the next step.
Over the past two weeks, how often have you experienced each of the following?
01Sudden, intense episodes of fear that peak within minutes
02Physical symptoms during these episodes (racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness)
03Worrying about when the next episode will happen
04Avoiding places or situations for fear of an episode
05Feeling a loss of control or fear of dying during episodes
Panic Disorder — Frequently Asked
Common questions about Panic Disorder.
What does a panic attack feel like?
A sudden surge of intense fear that peaks within minutes, often with a racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest tightness, and a sense of doom.
Is panic disorder treatable?
Very. CBT with exposure is one of the most effective treatments in psychiatry for panic disorder, and medication can help when symptoms are severe.
When should I seek help for panic attacks?
If attacks are recurring or you are avoiding places or activities for fear of one, it is time. A medical check also helps rule out cardiac or thyroid causes.
Medically reviewed by
Clay Hall, NP, PhD, MBA
PRX Founder · Primary Care & Psychiatry
Double-board certified in Primary Care and Psychiatry, with post-graduate training in Psychiatry and Neuroscience from Purdue University.
Take the next step.
Whether the screening pointed here or somewhere else, the right next move is a conversation. Reach out and we'll help you find your path.
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