Cognitive Behavior Psychotherapy in Panic Disorder

The objective of this study in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) was to demonstrate the preparation of the patient with panic disorder for agoraphobic exposures. The focus of the work consisted of interoceptive exposures, in vivo, of body sensations themselves, to feared places and situations. The sample consisted of 50 individuals. Group 1 undertook 10 weekly, individual sessions of CBT of one hour duration. Group 2, control, was just follow-up with supportive therapy. The procedures used for the exposures, especially for induction symptom exercises, were considered essential in the preparation of patients with panic disorder, to be able to face up to panic attacks and subsequent agoraphobic situations.