Panic and Agoraphobia Therapy Group

Overcoming Panic Disorder & Agoraphobia

Panic attacks involve a rapid surge of very intense, frightening sensations that appear suddenly and often seem to "come out of the blue". The sensations are associated with a strong fear of a physical or mental catastrophe, of a serious risk or danger to your wellbeing or survival. Symptoms of panic attacks may include any of the following:

Racing or pounding heartbeat, or chest pain
Difficulty breathing
Sweating, hot flushes (or chills)
Dizziness, lightheadedness, or nausea
Numbness or tingling sensations
Trembling or shaking
Fear of dying, passing out, going crazy or losing control
Feelings of "unreality" or "disassociation"
Terror - a sense that something awful is about to happen
The urge to escape the situation, or to get immediate medical assistance or help from a trusted person

Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder that typically develops after experiencing panic attacks in certain situations, or fearing that you may feel trapped, vulnerable, helpless, or intensely embarrassed in certain situations. It involves persistent and often pervasive avoidance of these situations where you fear panic could occur, especially if you believe that escape or help may be difficult to obtain in these situations. Agoraphobia can greatly limit and constrict your life.

Numerous research studies have now demonstrated that most people (70-90 %) treated with a specific, empirically validated Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) treatment program can recover from panic disorder in as few as 12 structured therapy sessions. CBT is highly effective, and does not require use of medications. CBT can also be used along with medication, and has been found to help reduce risk of relapse after treatment is completed. This therapy group will employ the validated treatment protocol, with the additional benefit of receiving the support and inspiration of other participants. Treatment of agoraphobia is an expanded and extended application of the same CBT principles used with panic, and often requires a few or more additional sessions that will be incorporated in the later portion of this group therapy.

Description: This 12-15 week group treatment program will provide clear education about panic attacks and the intense cycle of physiological and cognitive (frightening thought) symptoms, and will teach and apply specific CBT techniques to cope with and overcome the fears, building confidence in your mental and physical capabilities in ways that typically lead to a lasting recovery from panic and agoraphobia. The group will be lead by Dr. Shenk and will include 5 to 8 members. Dr. Shenk will offer a group in person in his La Jolla office, and will also offer an additional group for online participants from around California.

Leader: James L. Shenk, Ph.D.

Fee: $80 per session (90-minute sessions), 12-15 sessions. An individual assessment session ($300) is required prior to the start of the group.

Interested In Joining?

The Cognitive Therapy Institute, APC

Panic and Agoraphobia Therapy Group

Overcoming Panic Disorder & Agoraphobia