CBT by Condition

Guide

CBT for Agoraphobia (± Panic)

Educational content only. For acute medical symptoms, seek medical evaluation. See our Medical Disclaimer.

Overview

Agoraphobia involves fear/avoidance of places where escape/help may be difficult (public transit, crowds, open/enclosed spaces). Panic may co‑occur.

Why CBT helps

  • Graded situational exposure: approach avoided places stepwise to disconfirm fears.
  • Safety behavior fading: reduce crutches (constant companions, exits scanning).
  • Interoceptive exposure: practice benign bodily sensations to reduce panic fear.

Journaling prompts

  1. Place/situation → prediction vs. outcome → peak anxiety and time to decline.
  2. Safety behavior I reduced and what I learned.
  3. One valued activity I reclaimed.

Use brief logs; see How to Journal.

When to seek care

Severe avoidance or frequent panic warrants clinician‑guided exposure planning.

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