Features of Psychotherapy of Clients with Panic Disorder

Introduction. This article is devoted to the description of the stages for psychological support of clients experiencing panic disorder. Panic disorder is a psychoemotional disorder characterized by recurrent panic attacks. This condition worsens the patient's quality of life, leading to social isolation and restriction of activity.  The relevance of the study is due to the demands of practice, as the number of people suffering from this disorder increases each year.

Objective. Identify problematic areas for psychotherapy of clients with panic disorder and offer recommendations that can positively influence the work process.

Materials and Methods. Diagnostic techniques were used in the study: the Panic Attack Screening Questionnaire and the Beck Anxiety Scale. As therapeutic tools, methods of Gestalt therapy,, logotherapy, schema therapy and body-oriented therapy were chosen.

Results.The paper gives a detailed description of real cases from the psychologist's practice and pays attention to the technologies of work with clients who suffer from this type of disorder. The stages of work with panic disorder are described: informing the person about the nature of panic attack; working with the primary trauma; creating in the client a more effective habit preventing repeated panic attacks; returning the patient to a harmonious life. As a result, all clients demonstrated resolution of panic attack attacks and a return to a fulfilling life.

Discussion. Working with panic disorder involves four stages, each of which is aimed at solving specific problems and requires a comprehensive approach that combines cognitive, behavioral, and depth therapies. The success of treatment depends on the willingness to actively participate in the process and the support of their loved ones. Modern therapeutic strategies allow not only to reduce the intensity of panic attacks, but also to help the patient gain control over his life. The algorithm of work and the psychotherapy techniques can be recommended for the development of individual rehabilitation programs for people experiencing panic disorder.

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