High-achieving individuals are particularly susceptible—often internalizing stress and powering through, until the nervous system signals that it’s had enough. I offer EMDR for overcoming panic disorder, whether longstanding or sudden onset.

You may look composed on the outside, but inside you may be quietly battling waves of panic, anxiety, or dread—that feeling where you think you’re either dying or going crazy. The ER assured you that you were just having a panic attack, but here you are now searching for panic disorder help. Whether it’s a sudden surge while driving, sitting on a train, crossing a bridge, or a growing fear that an episode could strike during a meeting or commute, panic can become a disruptive and frightening presence in daily life.

My approach to panic disorder therapy in New York is discreet, highly personalized, and rooted in evidence-based, integrative care—designed to address both symptoms and underlying causes.

How to Find the Best New York Therapist for Panic Disorder

Finding the right therapist for panic disorder in New York City means working with someone who understands the intense fear, physical sensations, and sudden episodes that characterize panic attacks—and who knows how to treat them effectively.

The best NYC panic disorder therapist will help you:

• Identify triggers and early warning signs

• Understand the mind–body mechanisms driving panic

• Reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks

• Address underlying anxiety, trauma, or stress patterns

• Develop long-term emotional regulation skills

Effective treatment often integrates EMDR therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, exposure-based approaches, and somatic (body-based) interventions.

In a fast-paced city like NYC, feeling understood, supported, and guided from the first session is often more important than credentials alone. With the right fit and expertise, therapy becomes a space to reduce panic episodes, build reliable coping strategies, and restore confidence and control over your life.

What Is Panic Disorder?

Panic Disorder is a clinical anxiety condition characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks—sudden surges of intense fear that peak within minutes and are accompanied by physical and cognitive symptoms such as:

• Racing or pounding heart

• Shortness of breath or air hunger

• Chest discomfort

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Nausea or gastrointestinal distress

• Sweating, trembling, or shaking

• Hot flashes or chills

• Fear of losing control, “going crazy,” or dying

To meet diagnostic criteria, panic attacks are followed by at least one month of:

• Persistent worry about having more attacks

• Fear of what the attacks mean (e.g., medical catastrophe)

• Behavioral changes or avoidance of situations associated with panic

Panic disorder often begins in late adolescence or early adulthood and may be linked to acute stress, trauma, nervous system sensitivity, or chronic anxiety. When untreated, it can lead to agoraphobia, avoidance of daily activities, and significant impairment in work, relationships, and quality of life.

Signs You May Be Experiencing Panic Disorder

• Recurrent, intense panic attacks

• Fear of having another panic episode

• Avoidance of subways, bridges, elevators, driving, or crowded places

• Physical symptoms without clear medical cause

• Feeling detached from your body or surroundings (depersonalization/derealization)

• Constant monitoring of bodily sensations

• Changes in behavior to prevent future panic

Specialized Panic Disorder Therapy in NYC

My practice offers an integrative, trauma-informed model for treating panic disorder at its root. Rather than only managing symptoms, we explore the emotional, psychological, and physiological factors driving panic.

Treatment may include:

• EMDR Therapy – to process unresolved trauma, stress, or panic-linked memories

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – to address catastrophic thinking and fear conditioning

• Somatic Psychotherapy – to regulate the nervous system and restore safety in the body

• Mindfulness-Based Therapy – to increase tolerance of internal sensations

• Exposure-Based Strategies – to gently reduce avoidance

• Breathwork, vagal toning, and grounding techniques – for immediate and long-term regulation

This multidimensional approach supports lasting change, not just temporary relief.

In-the-Moment Grounding Tools for Panic Relief

If panic is rising, try one of the following:

• Box Breathing: Inhale 4 counts, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4. Repeat 4–6 rounds.

• Cold Stimulation: Splash cold water on your face or place a cold pack on your neck.

• 5-4-3-2-1 Technique:

  • 5 things you see

  • 4 things you feel

  • 3 things you hear

  • 2 things you smell

  • 1 thing you taste

• Gentle Movement: Walk slowly, stretch, or rock side to side.

• Reassurance Statement: “This is uncomfortable, but not dangerous. It will pass.”

These tools don’t cure panic—but they can reduce intensity and build confidence in your ability to ride waves safely.

Begin Again—Without Panic Holding You Back

Panic disorder therapy is not about suppressing symptoms. It’s about understanding the deeper story your nervous system is telling and teaching your body that it is safe again.

With expert support and personalized care, you can stop living in fear of the next attack and start living with greater freedom, clarity, and ease.

At Holistic Therapy & Wellness New York, I work with discerning, high-functioning New Yorkers who are ready to heal panic at the root. Together, we build a roadmap back to safety, stability, and self-trust.

About Panic Disorder Therapy NYC

Treatment is individualized to your physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual needs. I work with a broad range of evidence-based and integrative approaches, including:

• EMDR Therapy

• Psychodynamic Psychotherapy

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

• Internal Family Systems (IFS)

• Solution-Focused Therapy

• Mindfulness-Based & Holistic Mind-Body Medicine

Therapy begins with a comprehensive consultation where you gain clarity about your symptoms and options for healing. Many clients report relief even after the first session. Together, we determine the most supportive modalities for your recovery.

Panic Attacks & Panic Disorder Therapy – Frequently Asked Questions

What is a panic attack?

A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or physical distress that can include symptoms such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest tightness, nausea, or a feeling of losing control. While panic attacks feel frightening, they are not dangerous and reflect a nervous system activating a threat response.

What is the difference between panic attacks and panic disorder?

Panic attacks can occur occasionally or in response to stress. Panic disorder involves recurrent panic attacks along with ongoing fear of having another attack or changes in behavior to avoid triggering situations. Therapy can be helpful for both, regardless of diagnosis.

Why do panic attacks feel so intense and sudden?

Panic attacks occur when the nervous system misinterprets internal sensations or stress signals as a threat. This activates the body’s fight-or-flight response, even when no actual danger is present. Therapy helps retrain the nervous system’s response to these sensations.

Can panic attacks happen “out of nowhere”?

Yes. Panic attacks often feel unpredictable, especially early on. Over time, therapy helps identify subtle triggers, bodily cues, and patterns that contribute to panic, restoring a sense of understanding and control.

Are panic attacks a sign of something medically wrong?

Panic attacks can mimic medical emergencies, which is why many people seek medical evaluation initially. Once medical causes are ruled out, therapy can help address the psychological and nervous-system components driving panic symptoms.

Can panic attacks be related to trauma or chronic stress?

Often, yes. Panic attacks can develop in response to unresolved trauma, prolonged stress, or periods of emotional overload. Therapy focuses on addressing these underlying contributors rather than only managing symptoms.

How does therapy help with panic attacks?

Therapy helps by increasing understanding of panic, reducing fear of bodily sensations, and supporting nervous system regulation. An integrative approach addresses emotional processing, stress patterns, and the body’s response to perceived threat.

Can EMDR help with panic attacks or panic disorder?

EMDR may be helpful when panic is connected to unresolved experiences, traumatic memories, or deeply held beliefs that trigger fear responses. It is used selectively and within a broader therapeutic framework when clinically appropriate.

Do panic attacks mean I’m losing control or “going crazy”?

No. Panic attacks are a common and reversible nervous system response. While they feel overwhelming, they do not indicate loss of control, mental instability, or danger. Therapy helps restore confidence and reduce fear of panic itself.

Is panic disorder treated with medication only?

No. Psychotherapy is an effective treatment for panic attacks and panic disorder. Some individuals use therapy alone, while others combine therapy with medication. Treatment decisions are individualized and approached thoughtfully.

Is telehealth effective for panic attacks and panic disorder?

Yes. Telehealth therapy can be very effective for panic-related concerns. Working from a familiar environment can support regulation and allow therapy to focus directly on bodily sensations and fear responses as they arise.

Do you offer panic attack therapy for New York clients via telehealth?

Yes. Therapy for panic attacks and panic disorder is offered to individuals located in New York through secure telehealth sessions, in accordance with state licensure requirements.

Who typically seeks therapy for panic attacks?

I often work with adults who are capable and self-aware yet feel shaken by sudden panic symptoms. Many are professionals, caregivers, or individuals navigating high stress, life transitions, or unresolved trauma.

How long does therapy for panic attacks take?

Timelines vary. Some clients notice improvement within a few months, while others benefit from longer-term therapy that addresses deeper nervous system and emotional patterns. Therapy is paced collaboratively.

When might additional or urgent support be needed?

If panic symptoms are accompanied by significant impairment, depression, or safety concerns, additional support may be recommended. Ethical practice includes careful assessment and appropriate referrals when needed.

How do I get started with therapy for panic attacks?

You can begin by requesting an initial consultation. This allows us to discuss your experiences, determine whether panic-focused therapy is the right fit, and outline next steps in a calm, supportive way.