Panic Disorder

If you have Panic Disorder, you know what it’s like to be caught off guard by an overwhelming sense of dread or terror. You’ve experienced the terrifying physical symptoms: lightheadedness, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, perspiration, blurred or distorted vision, or feeling a detachment from reality. The fear of experiencing those symptoms again can leave you on edge or force you to change your life to avoid possible triggering situations.
​

Inquire Now

or Call 503-542-7635

Clinical Definition 
Panic disorder is characterized by the unexpected occurrence of panic attacks followed by at least one month of persistent worry about additional panic attacks and/or significant change in maladaptive behavior related to those attacks.

Vertical Divider

Our Approach

Despite the overwhelming impulse to escape and then avoid, we know these behaviors ultimately lead to greater distress and an increase in panic attacks. As scary as it feels, facing those fears through Exposure Response Prevention Therapy is the best treatment for Panic Disorder. With the help of our trained therapists, you will withstand your fear and come out the other side a stronger person, more tolerant of feelings and thoughts previously avoided.

​Never be blindsided by fear again.

Available Programs for Panic Disorder

 At NW Anxiety Institute, we offer several programs for Panic Disorder based on your needs:

• Individual Therapy 
  Meet with a highly-skilled therapist trained in Exposure Response Prevention. We’ll primarily meet in our office, but at times will likely work outside of the office to get the most out of treatment. 
  
  
• Group Therapy 
  The Adult Anxiety Group is open to anyone 18 or older struggling with anxiety. Meet with others facing similar challenges, gain support from your peers, and share your experiences. Similarly, the Teen Anxiety Group offers a safe environment for teens between the ages of 12 - 17 to meet, connect, and support one another. 

 

• Focus Program 
  ​We offer a unique, intensive outpatient program (IOP) for quicker results in a focused setting. Experience daily therapy sessions (individual, group, and skills-based, family) over a minimum three-week timespan without the distractions of everyday life. 

Parent's Corner
Watching your teen or child go through a panic attack is agonizing. You may be unsure of how to help or even talk to your child about their experience. With younger children, it can be hard to even know when your child is having a panic attack. Here are some telltale behaviors:

• Unexpected and intense physical symptoms (i.e., shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, trembling or shaking).
• Refusal to go to school
• Avoidance of places associated with anxiety (ex. mall, school)
• Sensitivity to sound or heat
• Becoming overly clingy