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A pilot study of two-day cognitive-behavioral therapy for panic disorder
Brett Deacon1, Jonathan Abramowitz
1Department of Psychology, University of Wyoming, Dept. 3415, 1000 E. University Ave., Laramie, WY 82071, USA. bdeacon@uwyo.edu
Behaviour Research and Therapy
|August 9, 2005
Summary
Brief, intensive cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) significantly reduced panic disorder (PD) symptoms in a short-term study. This accessible treatment model offers an effective option for rural patients needing rapid relief from panic and anxiety.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Panic disorder (PD) presents challenges for rural populations due to limited access to specialized treatment.
- Traditional weekly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) may not be feasible for all patients, particularly those facing travel burdens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the short-term efficacy of a brief, intensive CBT model for panic disorder.
- To assess the feasibility of delivering intensive CBT to a rural patient population.
Main Methods:
- Ten patients with panic disorder received 9 hours of therapist contact over two consecutive days.
- Participants were recruited from a hospital-based anxiety disorders clinic and were not excluded based on comorbidities or prior treatment nonresponse.
- Assessments were conducted pre-treatment and at a 1-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- Significant reductions in panic disorder symptoms, anxiety sensitivity, body vigilance, and anxiety/depressive symptoms were observed.
- 60% of patients were panic-free at follow-up, with most evidencing normative symptom levels.
- The intensive format demonstrated clinical effectiveness and symptom remission.
Conclusions:
- Brief, intensive CBT is a viable and effective treatment for panic disorder, especially for patients with access barriers.
- This treatment model shows promise for improving outcomes in underserved populations.
- Intensive delivery of CBT can lead to rapid and significant symptom improvement in panic disorder.