Panic Attacks & Agoraphobia
At Kindly Psychology, we view panic attacks and agoraphobia as an overactive physical alarm system where the body's natural fight-or-flight response fires intensely without an immediate external threat.
What are Panic Attacks & Agoraphobia?
A panic attack is a sudden surge of overwhelming fear or intense discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes. Physical sensations can be frighteningly intense and often include a racing heart, chest tightness, shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, trembling, or feelings of detachment from reality. Because these symptoms mimic medical emergencies, many people fear they are losing control, going crazy, or having a heart attack.
When panic attacks occur repeatedly, individuals often develop anticipatory anxiety, a constant fear of when the next attack will strike. This can lead to agoraphobia, where a person avoids places or situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable if panic arises, such as public transport, crowded shopping centers, enclosed spaces, or open highways. Research indicates that avoiding these triggers temporarily reduces fear but reinforces the underlying belief that panic sensations are dangerous, maintaining the panic cycle long-term (Craske et al., 2010).
How We Treat Panic Attacks & Agoraphobia at Kindly Psychology
At Kindly Psychology, we offer structured, research-led interventions designed to break the panic cycle and help you regain confidence in your body and environment. Clinical guidelines consistently highlight targeted psychological therapy as a frontline treatment for panic and agoraphobic avoidance (Pompoli et al., 2016). We draw upon evidence-based modalities tailored to your needs:
CBT
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is the gold-standard treatment for panic disorder.
Interoceptive & In Vivo
Interoceptive exposure helps you become accustomed to feared physical sensations, such as an elevated heart rate or breathlessness, in a safe environment.
ACT
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy teaches you psychological flexibility.
Somatic & Polyvagal
We integrate body-aware techniques to help regulate your nervous system.
Frequently Asked Questions About Panic Attacks & Agoraphobia
No. While panic sensations feel extreme, panic attacks are a harmless activation of your body's survival system. Panic causes your heart rate and blood pressure to temporarily increase to prepare your body for action, whereas fainting usually occurs due to a sudden drop in blood pressure. Understanding that these physical sensations are uncomfortable rather than dangerous is a crucial step in treatment.
Even when panic feels spontaneous, subtle physical shifts, shallow breathing, or unconscious stress triggers often precede an attack. Through therapy at Kindly Psychology, you learn to spot these early physiological cues, reframe catastrophic thoughts, and apply regulation strategies before panic escalates.
Not at all. Treatment is entirely collaborative and paced around your comfort level. Your psychologist works with you to build a gradual hierarchy of steps, starting with very mild, manageable challenges. You are always in control of the pace, and your psychologist provides guidance and tools at every step.
We believe in finding the right psychologist for your journey. Book a complimentary call with us to ask your questions or to schedule your initial appointment.
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