Abstract
Although efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in the treatment of panic disorder has been well documented, far fewer studies have investigated treatment outcome for panic disorder among real-world patients with a range of complicating factors. The current study employed a time-series approach to examine the effectiveness of CBT for panic disorder for a patient who sought services at a university psychology clinic. Following a 16-session CBT treatment protocol, the patient demonstrated significant decreases in self-reported distress, anxiety and panic symptoms, and worry about having a panic attack. Several qualitative changes were also notable following termination, including decreased tobacco and psychiatric medication usage as well as decreased comorbid depressive symptoms and agoraphobia behaviors. Outcomes were maintained 9 months post treatment. This study supports effectiveness of implementing a CBT approach to the treatment of panic disorder with agoraphobia among complex patients. Treatment implications and applications are discussed.
