Mechanisms of Change in Cognitive-Behavior Therapy for Panic Disorder: Clinical Implications and Recommendations - Abstract
Panic disorder is a chronic condition that is associated with significant impairments in marital, social, and occupational functioning as well as in poor health and overall quality of life. Fortunately, effective pharmacological and psychosocial treatments are available. Cognitive-behavioral treatments (CBT), particularly Panic Control Treatment (PCT) or modifications of it is considered the most effective psychosocial treatments. Numerous studies have found PCT to be successful in a variety of “real life” settings, such as community mental health, primary care, and private practice. While PCT is an effective treatment for
panic disorder, not all patients respond and relapse is a concern. Therefore, attempts to improve on the effectiveness of treatment are underway. Identifying mechanisms of change that mediate treatment response may lead to targeting the most relevant treatment components and result in more efficient and efficacious interventions. Mechanisms that have received the most investigation are anxiety sensitivity and panic-self efficacy/perceived control. Both factors have been shown to mediate treatment outcome. Clinical implications and recommendations for targeting these mechanisms are discussed.