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Panic Attacks - How can EMDR Therapy Help?

Updated: Jun 29, 2023

Panic attacks can be a debilitating and overwhelming experience for those who suffer from them. They are characterized by sudden, intense feelings of fear or terror, accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, and shaking. If you are someone who struggles with panic attacks, you may feel like there's no way out and that you'll never be able to overcome them. But there is hope. EMDR Therapy can help!

EMDR therapy is a form of psychotherapy that is used to help individuals process traumatic or distressing memories. It is based on the idea that when we experience a traumatic or distressing event, our brains are unable to fully process and integrate the experience. As a result, the memory of the event can become "stuck" in our minds, leading to ongoing emotional distress and symptoms such as panic attacks. EMDR therapy aims to help the individual process and integrate these traumatic memories in a more adaptive and healthy way.

During EMDR therapy, the therapist will guide the individual through a series of eye movements or other bilateral stimulation (such as sound or taps) while the individual focuses on the traumatic memory. This is thought to stimulate the brain's natural healing process, allowing the individual to process and integrate the traumatic memory in a more adaptive and healthy way. By reprocessing the traumatic memory, individuals are able to reduce the intensity of the associated emotions and symptoms.

EMDR therapy can be particularly helpful for panic attacks because it addresses the underlying traumatic or distressing memories that may be contributing to the individual's panic symptoms. These memories may have been forgotten or repressed, but they are still impacting the individual's emotional and psychological well-being. By processing and integrating these memories, the individual can begin to experience relief from their panic symptoms.

It is important to note that EMDR therapy is not a "quick fix" and requires a commitment to the therapeutic process. However, for those who are willing to put in the work, the results can be life-changing. Many individuals who have undergone EMDR therapy report significant reductions in their panic symptoms, as well as improvements in their overall emotional and psychological well-being.

If you're someone who struggles with panic attacks, EMDR therapy may be a viable option for you. It's important to find a qualified therapist who is trained in EMDR therapy to guide you through the process. With the right support and guidance, you can begin to overcome your panic symptoms and take control of your life.


Interested in learning more about how EMDR can help you? Schedule a free 15 min consult to learn more! With offices in Gilbert & Phoenix Arizona, our therapists are ready to help you achieve your limitless potential.


p: 480.448.1076


Gilbert Location: 2563 S. Val Vista Dr. Ste 108. Gilbert, AZ 8529

Phoenix Location: 1440 E. Missouri Ave. C270. Phoenix, AZ 85014



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