Psychological Treatment of Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia
Abstract
This chapter provides a review of the research literature on psychological treatment for panic disorder and agoraphobia (PDA). The most extensively studied psychological treatment for PDA is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This chapter summarizes specific c CBT strategies and treatment packages, findings from efficacy and effectiveness studies, prevention initiatives, predictors of treatment outcome, and research on long-term outcome. CBT has established efficacy and robust treatment effects that have been demonstrated across a variety of treatment settings and over extended follow-up periods. Further research is needed in the areas of prevention and early intervention, and in the extension of established treatments to underserved or challenging populations.