Panic attacks can feel overwhelming, isolating, and unpredictable. Taking the first step toward help requires strength—and finding the right support is essential. If you’re searching for therapy for panic attacks near you, it’s important to choose a provider who understands your unique challenges. 

At The Forge Recovery Center, we specialize in helping individuals facing not only panic attacks but also co-occurring mental health issues, addiction, and related struggles. Our personalized treatment plans are designed to empower you toward lasting recovery and peace of mind. In this article, we will guide you to trusted therapists in West Hollywood and explain how we can help.

Understanding Panic Attacks

Panic attacks are sudden, intense episodes of fear or discomfort that can occur without warning. Unlike general anxiety—which tends to build gradually—panic attacks peak quickly, often within minutes. They may be triggered by specific situations or occur unexpectedly, leaving individuals feeling a loss of control or fearing a serious medical issue.

Common Symptoms

During a panic attack, individuals might experience:

• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain or discomfort

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Trembling or shaking

• Sweating

• Feelings of detachment from reality

• Fear of losing control or dying

These symptoms can be so severe that many mistake them for life-threatening conditions, such as a heart attack.

The Impact on Daily Life

Left untreated, panic attacks can significantly disrupt daily functioning. Individuals may start avoiding certain places, situations, or activities out of fear of triggering another episode—a pattern known as avoidance behavior. Relationships may suffer, work performance can decline, and overall quality of life may diminish. Over time, some develop panic disorder, where the fear of future attacks becomes a constant burden.

At The Forge Recovery Center, we recognize how deeply panic attacks can affect not just your mental health but your entire life. Addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes is key to long-term recovery and restoring your sense of safety and confidence.

Effective Therapies for Panic Attacks

Overcoming panic attacks requires more than just managing symptoms—you need the right therapeutic approach tailored to your experiences. At The Forge Recovery Center, we offer proven treatments that help reduce both the frequency and severity of panic attacks while addressing the underlying causes.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a leading treatment for panic attacks. It helps you identify and challenge negative thought patterns that trigger fear responses. Through structured sessions, CBT teaches healthier ways to think and respond, reducing anxiety and helping prevent future episodes.

Exposure Therapy

When panic attacks are tied to specific fears or situations, exposure therapy can help. Under professional guidance, you’ll gradually face these fears in a safe, controlled manner. This process reduces the fear response over time, helping you regain control and confidence.

Medication

For some, therapy alone might not fully manage panic attack symptoms. In these cases, medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or benzodiazepines may be prescribed. These are always used under professional supervision and often complement ongoing therapy.

At The Forge Recovery Center, we combine these therapies into personalized treatment plans that support both immediate relief and long-term recovery.

Finding the Right Therapist in West Hollywood

Choosing the right therapist is a critical step in your recovery journey. The right professional can provide not only effective treatment but also the support and understanding you need to regain control over your life.

Credentials to Look For

Start by ensuring the therapist is fully licensed in California and has specialized training in treating anxiety disorders and panic attacks. Look for credentials such as Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), or Clinical Psychologist (PhD or PsyD). Therapists with additional certification or extensive experience in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or exposure therapy are especially valuable.

Questions to Ask

When consulting potential therapists, ask:

• What experience do you have treating panic attacks?

• What therapeutic approaches do you use?

• Can you share any success stories or typical treatment outcomes?

• How do you tailor treatment plans to individual needs?

These questions can help you gauge whether the therapist’s experience and style align with your goals and comfort level.

Local Resources

West Hollywood offers several directories and platforms to help you find qualified therapists. Websites like Psychology Today, TherapyDen, and the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) provide search filters to locate professionals specializing in anxiety and panic disorders. Additionally, The Forge Recovery Center can connect you with trusted therapists as part of our comprehensive care network.

With the right therapist and treatment plan, recovery is not just possible—it’s achievable.

The Forge Recovery Center's Approach

At The Forge Recovery Center, we understand that no two experiences with panic attacks are the same. That’s why we offer a personalized, comprehensive approach designed to address your unique needs and support lasting recovery.

Personalized Treatment Plans

 We start by conducting a thorough assessment to understand the full scope of your challenges—not just panic attacks, but any underlying mental health concerns or co-occurring issues like addiction. 

Based on this, we create a customized treatment plan that may include evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and other proven methods. Your plan evolves as you progress, ensuring that the care you receive is always relevant and effective.

Integrated Care

Our approach goes beyond traditional talk therapy. We combine individual therapy with support groups, allowing you to connect with others who understand your journey. 

We also incorporate holistic methods like mindfulness training, stress management techniques, and wellness activities to promote healing in both mind and body. This integrated care model ensures you’re not only managing symptoms but building resilience and improving overall well-being.

At The Forge Recovery Center, we’re committed to walking alongside you every step of the way toward a healthier, more empowered life.

Can Panic Attacks Happen During Sleep?

Yes, panic attacks can occur during sleep—these are known as nocturnal panic attacks. They typically wake individuals abruptly, often in the middle of the night, with symptoms similar to daytime attacks: a racing heartbeat, sweating, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, and an overwhelming sense of fear or doom. Unlike nightmares, nocturnal panic attacks usually don’t have a clear trigger or frightening dream associated with them, making the experience even more distressing.

These nighttime episodes can lead to sleep disturbances, fatigue, and increased anxiety about going to bed, which can further impact mental and physical health. Fortunately, effective treatments are available. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches can help identify underlying triggers, reduce the frequency of nocturnal panic attacks, and teach coping strategies to manage nighttime anxiety. 

At The Forge Recovery Center, we specialize in creating personalized treatment plans that address both daytime and nocturnal panic attacks, helping you achieve restful sleep and regain a sense of safety and control.

Panic Attacks Disrupting Your Life? We’re Here to Help

Finding the right therapy for panic attacks near you can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At The Forge Recovery Center, we offer personalized treatment plans and compassionate, expert care to help you regain control and confidence. Whether you’re just beginning your search or ready to start therapy, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Reach out today and take the first step toward lasting relief and a healthier, more empowered future. You deserve to feel safe and in control again.

Written by

The Forge Recovery Center

Reviewed by

Jeremy Arzt

Chief Clinical Officer

May 23, 2025