Treatment for
Panic Disorder

Panic disorder is when you have had two or more panic attacks that seem to come out of the blue and you worry about having another panic attack or you have changed what you do out of fear of the attacks [1].

An anxiety attack or panic attack is a rush of fear with sudden changes in your body. Psychologists define a panic attack as an experience of intense fear or discomfort that starts quickly, usually peaks within 10 minutes, and includes four or more of these symptoms [1]:

  • Rapid or pounding heartbeat,

  • Sweating

  • Trembling or shaking,

  • Feeling short of breath,

  • Feelings of choking,

  • Chest pain or discomfort,

  • Nausea or stomach distress,

  • Feeling dizzy or unsteady or faint,

  • Feeling hot or cold,

  • Numbness or tingling

  • Feeling as if you are not present or as if things are not real,

  • Fear that you are losing control or going crazy, and/or

  • Fear that you are dying.

Do you have sudden attacks of anxiety that frighten you?

Have you had a panic attack? Do you worry about having another panic attack?

Are there activities or places you avoid out of fear of anxiety or panic?

Do you protect yourself from anxiety or panic by doing things a certain way?

How would overcoming your anxiety change your life? Would you:

  • See your family and friends more often?

  • Have more fun? Be happier?

  • Go places you always wanted to visit?

  • Have more options for work or school?

Overcome Panic Disorder

Working with Dr. McMahon can help you overcome panic attacks and associated issues. Most people start feeling better after working with Dr. McMahon for only a few sessions.

As you get over your panic attacks, you will feel better about yourself and feel more confident. You will be able to resume previous activities and try new things more comfortably. The skills you learn can help you overcome anxiety and panic, without medication.

Dr. McMahon has helped hundreds of people conquer panic attacks and anxiety issues by learning new ways of thinking and specific coping techniques. She uses proven techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), virtual reality therapy (see Benefits of VR Therapy), relaxation, and mindfulness. She has over 40 years of experience as a psychologist and specializes in brief, effective anxiety treatment. You may be delighted and amazed at how quickly panic attacks can decrease.

Call Dr. McMahon at 415-625-3565 for more information.  

[1] Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition, text revision (DSM-5 TR) published in 2020 by the American Psychiatric Association.