Panic Disorder services offered in Encino, Pasadena and Oakland, CA

Panic Disorder

Panic attacks can be frightening, overwhelming, and difficult to understand, especially when they occur unexpectedly. Many people describe feeling as though they are having a medical emergency, losing control, or in immediate danger, even when no actual threat is present.

At Adelpha Psychiatric Group, our physicians provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment for panic disorder and panic-related symptoms in adolescents and adults. We take time to understand your experiences, symptom patterns, medical history, and treatment goals before making recommendations.

Treatment may include psychotherapy, medication management, or a combination of approaches depending on your individual needs.

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Man sitting on the floor and clutching his chest, appearing to experience sudden physical discomfort or distress.

Panic Disorder

What is panic disorder?

Panic disorder is a mental health condition characterized by recurrent panic attacks and ongoing concern about experiencing future attacks.

A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort that can occur even when there is no immediate danger.

For some individuals, the fear of having another panic attack becomes so distressing that it begins affecting daily activities, relationships, work, travel, or social situations.

Panic Disorder

What does a panic attack feel like?

Panic attacks can affect both the mind and body.

Common symptoms may include:

  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest discomfort
  • Dizziness
  • Sweating
  • Trembling
  • Nausea
  • Chills or hot flashes
  • Tingling sensations
  • Feeling detached from reality
  • Fear of losing control
  • Fear of dying
Symptoms often reach their peak within minutes and can feel extremely intense, even though the episode itself is temporary.
Woman sitting with both hands on her chest and eyes closed, appearing to experience anxiety, stress, or physical discomfort.
Distressed man sitting on the floor beside a couch with his head in his hands, appearing overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion.

Panic Disorder

How is panic disorder different from anxiety?

While panic disorder and anxiety disorders are closely related, they are not the same.

Anxiety often involves ongoing worry, tension, or anticipation of future problems.

Panic attacks are more sudden and intense. They may occur unexpectedly and create a powerful sense of fear or danger.

Some individuals experience panic disorder alongside generalized anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, trauma-related concerns, or other mental health conditions.

A thorough psychiatric evaluation can help determine what may be contributing to symptoms.

Panic Disorder

When should I seek help?

It may be helpful to seek an evaluation if:
  • You have experienced one or more panic attacks
  • You frequently worry about having another panic attack
  • You avoid certain places or situations because of panic symptoms
  • Symptoms are affecting work, school, relationships, or daily life
  • You are unsure whether symptoms may be related to panic disorder or another condition

Many people wait months or years before seeking support. Early evaluation and treatment can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

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treatments

How is panic disorder treated?

Treatment is individualized and depends on symptom severity, treatment history, and personal goals.

Treatment recommendations may include:

Psychotherapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments for panic disorder. Therapy helps patients better understand panic symptoms, identify triggers, and develop strategies for responding to panic attacks with greater confidence and control.

Medication Management

Medication may be recommended when clinically appropriate. Certain medications can help reduce panic symptoms, decrease anxiety, and improve daily functioning.

Comprehensive Care

Because panic symptoms can overlap with anxiety disorders, trauma-related concerns, depression, and medical conditions, treatment begins with understanding the full picture before making recommendations.

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Can panic disorder improve with treatment?

Yes.

Many people experience significant improvement with appropriate treatment and support. Learning how panic attacks work and developing effective coping strategies can help reduce both the frequency of attacks and the fear associated with them.

The goal is not simply to reduce symptoms. It is to help individuals feel more confident, regain a sense of control, and return to the activities and relationships that matter most.

Call Adelpha Psychiatric Group today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment online.

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You Do Not Need a Diagnosis to Reach Out

Many patients come to Adelpha without knowing exactly what condition they may be experiencing.

Symptoms often overlap. Anxiety can look like ADHD. Depression can occur alongside trauma. Mood changes may have many possible causes.

The purpose of the consultation process is not simply to assign a label. It is to understand the full picture and help determine what type of support may be most appropriate.

Whether you have an existing diagnosis, are seeking a second opinion, or are simply looking for answers, our team can help guide the next step.

Insurance support is part of making care accessible

Insurance and Courtesy Billing

We know cost and insurance questions can be stressful. Our team will help make the financial side of care as clear as possible and help you understand what information is needed before treatment begins.

The first step is a consultation process.

What to Expect when you Reach Out

Thoughtful care starts with a thorough evaluation.

At Adelpha, getting started does not mean rushing into treatment without context. The first few visits start with an initial consultation period. This process includes at least two visits for adults and three visits for children and adolescents within the first month. This gives your physician or marriage and family therapist time to understand your history, current concerns, goals, previous treatment, and what kind of care may be helpful.

When appropriate, your physician or marriage and family therapist may ask to coordinate with your prior or current mental health providers, your primary care physician, or family members involved in your care. At the end of the consultation phase, we will share our impressions and recommendations. We will work with you to determine whether ongoing care with Adelpha is clinically appropriate and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

01

Reach out

Use the contact form, chat, or call.

02

Tell us what you are looking for

You do not need to know the right diagnosis or service before contacting us.

03

Review fit and next steps

Our team will help clarify the intake process, insurance, and scheduling

04

Begin consultation when appropriate

Your first visits help your physician or marriage and family therapist understand the full picture before making recommendations.

If you are unsure where to begin, reaching out is a reasonable first step.

Adelpha provides thoughtful, comprehensive psychiatric care for patients and families who want clear guidance, qualified support, and care that sees the whole person.

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