Although there is more and more proof surfacing that panic attacks are a chemical reaction of the brain, many experts are not convinced that it is only a physical problem. Most psychologists think that while a person who suffers from panic attacks might be experiencing a chemical imbalance, they are also likely having emotional issues as well. Therefore, medication alone might not be treating their panic, but only masking the problem.

Therapy is one thing many doctors recommend in addition to medication. The patients that would rather not take medication also find it helpful. The trick to making therapy work for your panic attacks is to choose the right therapist. You should “interview” a few to see if they offer what you need. For instance, if you want to change certain behaviors you have (such as phobias or compulsive tendencies) you might want to see someone who specializes in behavioral therapy. If you want to figure out situations from your past, you might want a psychotherapist.

No matter who you choose to see, you should feel comfortable with the therapist. You will only get back from therapy what you put into it. So, if you go to therapy and don’t open up with honesty, then you will likely not get any benefits from it. When you do go and open up, you will find that simple talking through things and rationalizing them with an unbiased party can be very healing.

Therapy will help you learn to cope with your panic and perhaps find the route of it. When you are lucky enough to find the route of your panic, you may be able to eliminate that source or at least learn to deal with the source. This should result in less panic attacks for you overall.