Panic attacks are an increasing problem, it would seem, judging by the people coming for Counselling on the recommendation of their GPs. They are frightened by sudden breathlessness, sweaty palms, racing hearts or cold, clammy hands and a tight feeling in the chest. Often this is accompanied by equally frightening thoughts of ' I'm going mad' or ' I'm dying'.
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) has been found to be effective with this illness, and I find some aspects of this approach very helpful, but as an integrative psychotherapist the centre of my enquiry is the individual who is with me at that moment.
I think it is essential to first enquire into their experience, hear their story, how they make sense of their lives, before I can offer strategies of how they might want to go forward. Working with both the client's thoughts and feelings seems the most appropriate way to honour their complexity and respect their wholeness.
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