EFFECTIVENESS OF ONLINE COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY: A CASE STUDY OF PANIC DISORDER

Abstract

This case study was carried out online during first wave of Covid-19. It intended to explore the efficacy of cognitive behavioral approach via electronic means, on a female having Panic Disorder, along with sub-threshold features of Illness Anxiety Disorder. It aimed to understand how useful is the cognitive behavioral approach in treating symptoms associated with Panic Disorder and pre-occupation with health-related concerns. The client in this case study was a 24 year old female. Psycho-diagnostic interview and assessment tools, specific to CBT were used in the initial phase. Further, techniques from the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy were used for the client’s catastrophic thoughts and cognitive distortions to alter her overestimation of threat in turn cutting down her panic attacks. Cognitive Behavior Therapy also helped the client gain control over her anxious thinking process and pre-occupation with health. The techniques helped improve the client’s overall functioning, panic attacks were eliminated and preoccupation with health was reduced. The results and client’s recovery established that Cognitive Behavior Therapy via online means is an effective approach to treat Panic Disorder and negative thinking process.