A Problem-Focused Psychodynamic Approach to Panic Disorder

"Although medications and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can treat panic attacks and panic disorder, many people respond only partially, or not at all, to these treatments. Many patients also suffer from recurrent episodes of panic, and panic disorder can be highly disruptive to people's lives and functioning (Ziffra, 2021)."

"Some people with panic disorder also suffer from Cluster C personality traits and disorders, which often include difficulties with dependency, fears of assertiveness, and tendencies toward avoidance (Friborg et al., 2013). They become frustrated in their interpersonal relationships, as they have difficulty addressing their needs with others. CBT and medication only indirectly address these associated problems."

"In our psychoanalytic exploration of panic disorder, we identified certain core fears that these individuals struggle with (Busch et al., 1991). One is an insecurity about the safety of their relations"

"In PFPP, the therapist focuses on panic attacks and their associated dynamics, psychological factors that contribute to panic disorder. Traditional psychoanalytic treatments address panic attacks when the patient brings them into treatment, they are typically not the primary target of therapy."

Panic attacks are often triggered by unconscious fears involving separation, dependency, and anger. People with panic disorder commonly develop avoidance and unassertiveness, along with fears of expressing needs in relationships. Many individuals also experience recurrent panic episodes that disrupt daily functioning. Some show Cluster C personality traits or disorders, including difficulties with dependency, fear of assertiveness, and avoidance tendencies, which can lead to frustration when needs are hard to address with others. Medication and cognitive behavioral therapy can help panic symptoms but often only partially, and they address related interpersonal problems indirectly. Panic Focused Psychodynamic Psychotherapy targets panic attacks and the psychological dynamics that contribute to panic disorder by addressing unconscious emotional conflicts.

Read at Psychology Today