If you’re living in Edmonton or St. Albert and struggling with sudden, intense episodes of fear, physical discomfort, or emotional overwhelm, you might be experiencing panic disorder. Panic attacks can feel terrifying, and over time they may limit your ability to enjoy daily life, relationships, and work. At Wholesome Psychology, we provide compassionate, evidence-based panic disorder treatment in Edmonton and St. Albert that helps you regain a sense of calm and control.

What Is Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder is a type of anxiety condition characterized by recurring and unexpected panic attacks. These are sudden periods of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes. While a single panic attack doesn't mean you have panic disorder, frequent episodes accompanied by persistent worry about future attacks may indicate a deeper issue that needs attention.

Symptoms of Panic Attacks

Panic attacks involve both physical and emotional symptoms that can be alarming. Understanding the signs can help you recognize when it's time to seek support.

Common Physical Symptoms:

• Rapid or pounding heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain or tightness
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Tingling sensations in hands or feet
• Chills or hot flashes
• Nausea or stomach pain
• Trembling or shaking

Common Emotional Symptoms:

• Fear of losing control or "going crazy"
• Intense worry about when the next attack will occur
• Avoiding places or situations where past attacks happened
• Persistent anxiety between episodes
• Feelings of shame or isolation

When Should You Seek Professional Help?

If panic attacks are interfering with your ability to live fully, it’s time to seek help. Maybe you're avoiding social gatherings, struggling to go to work, or constantly worried about your health. Panic disorder is highly treatable, and seeking professional counselling can be the turning point toward feeling safe and empowered again.

Early intervention is especially important because untreated panic disorder can lead to other challenges such as depression, substance use, and even agoraphobia—the fear of leaving home. If you're based in Edmonton or St. Albert, know that accessible and effective support is nearby at Wholesome Psychology.

How We Treat Panic Disorder at Wholesome Psychology

At Wholesome Psychology, we believe in personalized care. We tailor every treatment plan based on your experiences, symptoms, and goals. Our licensed psychologists and therapists specialize in anxiety and panic-related conditions, using the following approaches:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT is the gold standard for panic disorder treatment. It helps you identify and challenge irrational thoughts that fuel anxiety. You’ll learn how to interpret bodily sensations more accurately and replace catastrophic thinking with balanced perspectives.

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

Mindfulness techniques empower you to stay grounded during moments of distress. By learning to observe your thoughts and bodily sensations without judgment, you can reduce the intensity and frequency of panic attacks over time.

Exposure Therapy

Exposure therapy involves gradually and safely facing the situations or sensations you fear. With the support of a therapist, you'll practice tolerating discomfort so that your anxiety response weakens over time. This approach is especially helpful for clients avoiding specific places or experiences.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

For clients whose panic disorder is linked to past trauma, EMDR can help process and resolve distressing memories. This technique allows you to reframe how those memories are stored in the brain, reducing their emotional charge.

Hypnotherapy

In a relaxed and focused state, you can access subconscious patterns that contribute to panic and anxiety. Hypnotherapy can help shift internal narratives and build new, healthier coping responses.

Why Choose Wholesome Psychology for Panic Disorder Treatment?

Our practice is rooted in empathy, integrity, and inclusivity. We serve the communities of Edmonton and St. Albert with a commitment to high-quality, trauma-informed mental health care. You won’t find a one-size-fits-all approach here. Instead, you’ll meet with therapists who are trained to understand your unique story and help you feel heard and supported every step of the way.

We know that starting therapy can feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer flexible options for in-person, phone, and virtual sessions. You can begin therapy in the format that feels safest and most convenient for you. We also offer a 50% discount on your first session to find the right therapeutic fit.

Our team includes experienced therapists who specialize in treating anxiety disorders. You can learn more about their backgrounds and therapeutic styles on our Our Therapists page to find someone who feels like a good fit.

What to Expect During Your First Session

Your first appointment will be a chance to explore your symptoms, background, and what you hope to gain from therapy. You’ll work collaboratively with your therapist to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your needs and comfort level. There is no pressure to “perform” or explain everything perfectly. We meet you exactly where you are, with care and without judgment.

Local and Culturally Sensitive Support

We proudly serve clients across the Edmonton and St. Albert areas. Whether you're navigating panic disorder for the first time or have been dealing with symptoms for years, our doors are open. We also welcome individuals from diverse cultural, ethnic, and gender identities. Therapy should be a space where you feel fully seen and respected—and we’re committed to making that happen.

Complementary Support for Anxiety

If your panic attacks are part of a broader anxiety issue, you may benefit from our general anxiety counselling services. These sessions can help you explore the roots of your anxiety and learn long-term tools for emotional regulation, stress management, and resilience.

Take the First Step Today

You don’t have to live in fear of the next panic attack. With the right support, healing is possible. Our therapists are here to walk alongside you as you build a life with more peace, clarity, and confidence.

Start by contacting us today to book your first session. Let’s work together to help you feel safe in your body, grounded in your mind, and hopeful for your future.