Treating Panic Attacks with Brief Strategic Therapy: A Case Study

Abstract

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This article examines the application of Brief Strategic Therapy in treating a patient with panic disorder in a private therapy setting. The patient, a 50-year-old man with a history of panic attacks, experienced debilitating daily crises for three months despite undergoing pharmacological treatment. His symptoms were triggered by physical exercise and manifested as episodes of tachycardia, sweating, shortness of breath, and a fear of losing control. This case study describes the implementation of the Strategic Brief Therapy protocol, detailing the therapeutic maneuvers used in each phase, and provides evidence of significant reductions in panic symptomatology, avoidance behaviors, and dependency on external help. Additionally, quantitative assessments indicate a marked decrease in the intensity and frequency of attacks, alongside improvements in overall well-being. Preliminary findings suggest that the patient’s quality of life improved notably from the first session, with the complete cessation of panic attacks achieved within 11 sessions. These results highlight the effectiveness and efficiency of Strategic Brief Therapy as an intervention for panic disorder.