Therapy for Panic Attacks & Panic Disorder
Panic doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. It means your nervous system needs care — not fear.
What Panic Can Feel Like
Panic attacks can be terrifying — not just because of what you feel, but because they often come out of nowhere. You might be afraid something is seriously wrong with you, or constantly worried about when the next one will strike.
You might be experiencing:
If you’ve had panic attacks or are dealing with panic disorder, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to stay stuck in survival mode.
Why Panic Happens — and Why It’s Treatable
Panic is your body’s alarm system going off — even when there’s no real danger. It’s not irrational or random; it’s often a learned response tied to past experiences, chronic stress, or unprocessed fear.
Unfortunately, many people deal with panic alone, trying to “just breathe” or avoid triggers, which can actually reinforce the fear cycle.
The good news? Panic is highly treatable with the right support. Therapy helps you understand your nervous system, retrain your responses, and build a relationship with your body that’s rooted in safety — not fear.
How Therapy Can Help
Together, we can work on:
I often integrate:
The goal isn’t to eliminate all anxiety — it’s to help you respond with confidence and calm when it shows up.
What to Expect in Sessions
In our work together, we’ll focus on helping you feel safer — in your body, in your environment, and in your emotions. I’ll meet you with compassion and calm, never pushing you faster than you’re ready to go.
We’ll create a toolbox that works for your life and explore the deeper patterns that may be driving your panic. My role is to walk with you — not just through the fear, but toward trust and peace.
“You are not broken. Your nervous system just needs support — and that’s what we’ll build, together.”
What Clients Say
“Before working with Irene, I didn’t even realize how anxious I was all the time. She helped me slow down, breathe, and feel like I wasn’t broken — just burnt out.”
What Clients Say
“I used to feel like my mind never shut off. Now I feel like I have actual tools that work. And I know I’m not alone.”
What Clients Say
“Irene helped me realize I don’t have to say yes to everything. Learning to set boundaries changed everything.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between panic attacks and panic disorder?
Panic attacks are intense episodes of fear and physical symptoms. Panic disorder involves recurring attacks and ongoing worry about having more.
Q: Can therapy help even if I’ve had panic attacks for years?
Yes. Therapy is effective whether panic is new or something you’ve lived with for a long time.
Q: Do you prescribe medication?
No. As a therapist, I don’t prescribe medication, but I can collaborate with your doctor or psychiatrist if medication becomes part of your treatment plan.
Q: Will you make me talk about trauma?
Only if and when you're ready. We’ll focus first on safety and stabilization, and work at your pace.
Q: Is online therapy helpful for panic?
Yes — in fact, many clients prefer starting from the comfort of their own home. Online therapy is available for California residents.
Schedule a Free Consultation
You deserve to feel safe in your own body. If panic is interfering with your life, let’s talk. We’ll take the first step — calmly, together.
Maria Irene Alvarez de Schwartz, LMFT 155789
(949) 385-3689
Newport Beach Office
1000 Quail St., Suite 220
Laguna Beach Office
333 3rd St #6
Online Therapy
California Residents Only
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