Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Panic Attacks in New York, NY, and California

At Cornell & Associates Marriage and Family Therapy, we understand how overwhelming panic attacks can feel. When the fear comes on suddenly, when your body reacts before your mind can make sense of it, and when daily life becomes shaped by worry about “the next one,” it can be incredibly isolating. Our mission is to make sure you never have to navigate this alone. We offer compassionate behavioral therapy for panic attacks in New York, NY, and California, with options for both in-person sessions and secure virtual therapy so you can get support wherever you are.

With offices in New York City and San Diego, and teletherapy available throughout New York and California, we help teens and adults develop tools to understand their symptoms, reduce panic frequency, and regain control. Backed by years of clinical experience and countless testimonials from clients who have rebuilt their confidence, our team is here to help you find relief in a warm, supportive environment.

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Understanding Panic Attacks and Why Therapy Helps

Panic attacks can happen to anyone. They often appear without warning and may include rapid heartbeat, dizziness, trembling, chest tightness, or the feeling that something terrible is about to happen. Many people in fast-paced cities like New York or active areas of California push through life with nonstop stress, making it easy to overlook early signs of anxiety. But when panic symptoms begin interfering with your relationships, work, or overall wellbeing, support becomes essential.

That’s where therapy becomes incredibly effective. At Cornell & Associates, we help you identify what triggers your panic, understand how your body responds to fear, and teach you techniques that retrain your nervous system over time. We don’t just focus on symptoms: we uncover the beliefs, experiences, and stresses that may be fueling them.

Using evidence-based methods such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure techniques, grounding tools, and mindfulness, we work with you to create steady, measurable progress. Whether you prefer meeting in our New York City office, sitting down with us in San Diego, or connecting through online therapy from anywhere in New York or California, we can offer a comfortable and confidential place to heal.

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Our Approach to Panic Attack Treatment

Every client who seeks panic attack treatment in New York and California arrives with a different story. For some, panic begins after a stressful life event; for others, it builds gradually over time. Some clients experience panic in crowded subways or city streets, while others feel it most when they’re alone. Because panic is personal, our approach is personalized as well.

Intake and First Steps
We begin with an intake form or phone call to learn more about what you’ve been experiencing. From there, you’ll meet with a therapist for an initial session where we explore your symptoms, your history, and your goals. This session lays the foundation for ongoing work and helps us tailor treatment specifically to your needs.

Ongoing Individual Therapy
We offer individual therapy for both teens and adults, and our sessions may include:

  • Identifying patterns and triggers
  • Understanding how panic interacts with stress, trauma, or self-talk
  • Learning grounding techniques and breathing strategies
  • Challenging catastrophic thinking
  • Practicing gradual exposure to fear-inducing situations
  • Building long-term coping skills

If a family is supporting a teen experiencing panic attacks, we can also include family work when helpful.

Flexibility for Your Lifestyle
Because panic attacks often create fear around leaving home or entering crowded environments, our teletherapy option can be incredibly valuable. Many clients choose to begin therapy online and eventually transition to in-person sessions as their symptoms improve.

In-Person and Virtual Therapy Options

We proudly offer in-person therapy in:

  • New York City, NY
  • San Diego, CA
  • And virtual therapy across:
  • New York State
  • California

Whether you’re navigating the rush of Manhattan life, balancing career and family in Brooklyn or Queens, or living along the California coast where stress can still manifest behind the scenes, you can connect with our therapists in the way that feels safest and most supportive.

Clients in both states have shared how helpful online treatment has been, especially during moments when panic attacks make it difficult to travel.

Why Clients Trust Cornell & Associates
For years, individuals and families have chosen our practice because of our deep commitment to supportive, compassionate, and effective care. We treat you as a whole person, not a diagnosis. Our therapist understands the realities of modern stress, cultural pressures, family dynamics, and work demands that often contribute to panic symptoms.

Our approach blends clinical expertise with a warm, approachable style so that therapy feels grounding rather than intimidating. We are proud of the trust we’ve built with clients across New York and California, and we work every day to honor that trust with thoughtful care, clear communication, and a safe space to grow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Panic attacks involve sudden fear or discomfort along with symptoms like rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath. If these episodes occur frequently or without clear cause, therapy can help.

Yes. Evidence-based techniques often lead to a significant decrease in both frequency and intensity.

It varies. Some clients feel better within a few weeks, while others benefit from longer-term support.

We explore triggers, teach coping strategies, and practice tools such as breathing, grounding, and cognitive restructuring.

Not always. Some clients choose a combined approach with medical support; others improve through therapy alone.

Many clients experience lasting relief, though treatment focuses on long-term management and prevention

If panic affects your daily life, work, or relationships, it’s time to reach out. Early support leads to better outcomes.

Yes. All therapy is private and protected by professional ethics and law.

Yes. Teletherapy is highly effective for panic disorder and offers flexibility and accessibility.

Your therapist may give you exercises such as journaling, mindfulness, or controlled breathing to support your progress.

A Space to Feel Safe, Supported, and Understood

At Cornell & Associates Marriage and Family Therapy, we know how isolating panic attacks can feel, but you don’t have to manage them on your own. With compassionate therapists, flexible in-person and online options, and evidence-based tools tailored to your experiences, we’re here to help you regain a sense of stability and confidence. So if you’re ready to begin the process of healing, we’re ready to walk with you every step of the way. Just reach out today to start your journey toward calm, clarity, and greater peace of mind.

Why Clients Trust Cornell & Associates

For years, individuals and families have chosen our practice because of our deep commitment to supportive, compassionate, and effective care. We treat you as a whole person, not a diagnosis. Our therapist understands the realities of modern stress, cultural pressures, family dynamics, and work demands that often contribute to panic symptoms.

Our approach blends clinical expertise with a warm, approachable style so that therapy feels grounding rather than intimidating. We are proud of the trust we’ve built with clients across New York and California, and we work every day to honor that trust with thoughtful care, clear communication, and a safe space to grow.