Twelve sessions of cognitive behavioral-therapy in a case of panic disorder with agoraphobia

Panic disorder, with and without agoraphobia, is the result of paying attention to and interpreting physiological sensations in an erroneous and catastrophic manner, up to the point that these sensations are believed to entail dangerous consequences. We present a case study of a 20 year old Psychology undergraduate student, who requests a psychological intervention due to a serious anxiety problem. He has suffered from agoraphobia for three years, without ever having experienced a single panic attack; three months ago he suffered his first and subsequent unexpected panic attacks. The drug treatment prescribed by his GP has not favoured any kind of symptom remission. Based on Clark s Cognitive Model of Panic (1986), we implemented a cognitive treatment (focusing on psychoeducation and the role played by cognitive biases, and catastrophic and irrational misinterpretations of bodily sensations), in 12 weekly, 60 minute sessions, plus three additional follow-up sessions. Successful results were obtained and maintained at follow-up: panic attacks were completely eradicated, anxiety and depression levels were reduced, feared situations were confronted without suffering anxiety (travelling by plane or public transport, going to movie theatres, etc.) and medication was discontinued without suffering a relapse. Lastly, pre and post-treatment results obtained through the use of several assessment instruments are discussed.