Panic Attack Treatment in Manhattan

A panic attack can feel like a heart attack, a loss of control, or the sense that something is seriously wrong — even when your body is medically fine. If you’ve had one, you know how disorienting and frightening that experience is, and how much energy can go into trying to prevent the next one.

Is This You?

If any of the following feel familiar, you’re not alone — and you’re in the right place.

Sudden waves of intense fear that peak within minutes — racing heart, chest tightness, shortness of breath, dizziness, or a feeling of unreality
You’ve gone to an ER or urgent care convinced something was medically wrong, only to be told your heart and vitals are fine
You’re now anxious about having another attack, which itself keeps your nervous system on high alert
You’ve started avoiding places or situations — driving, crowded spaces, being far from home — where a past attack happened

Panic attacks are frightening, but they are not dangerous, and they are highly treatable. The goal isn’t just to survive the next one — it’s to break the cycle that keeps producing them.

How I Work

Panic disorder responds very well to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, especially interoceptive exposure — safely and gradually reintroducing the physical sensations of panic (a racing heart, shortness of breath) in a controlled way, so your body relearns that they aren’t dangerous. We also work directly on the anticipatory anxiety that builds between attacks.

Understand the physical and psychological cycle that turns a normal stress response into a panic attack
Practice skills that calm your body’s alarm system in the moment
Gradually reduce the avoidance that’s been keeping your world smaller
Build lasting confidence that you can handle whatever your body throws at you

Most people see a real reduction in both the frequency and intensity of panic attacks within a focused course of treatment — this is one of the most well-researched, responsive areas in anxiety treatment.

What to Expect in Your First Session

We start with a free 15-minute phone consultation to see whether we're a good fit. If we are, the first full session is a 45-minute conversation about what brought you in, how panic attacks shows up in your daily life, and what you'd like to be different. By the end, you'll have a clear sense of how we'll work together and what the next few weeks will look like.

In Person on the Upper West Side, or Online in New York and Florida

Sessions take place at my office at 275 Central Park West, a short walk from the B and C trains at 86th Street and Central Park West. I also offer telehealth for anyone in New York State or Florida. Daytime, evening and Sunday appointments are available.

Fees and Insurance

I'm in network with UnitedHealthcare, Oxford, Oscar and Aetna through Alma and Headway. If your plan is out of network, I can provide a superbill so you can seek reimbursement directly from your insurer. Call or text 646-717-4860, or email dr@dansharir.com, to check your coverage or book a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Panic Attack Treatment

Are panic attacks dangerous?

They feel frightening: a racing heart, shortness of breath and a sense of losing control. But they aren't harmful in themselves. It's a good idea to rule out medical causes with your doctor. Therapy then helps you stop fearing the next attack.

How does therapy stop panic attacks?

CBT for panic teaches you what's happening in your body during an attack and how to respond without fighting it. Through interoceptive exposure, you safely bring on similar sensations so they lose their power. Most people also start going back to places they've been avoiding, like the subway or crowded stores.

How soon can I start?

Call or text 646-717-4860 for a free 15-minute consultation. Evening and Sunday times are available, in person on the Upper West Side or online.

Ready to Take the First Step?

I offer a free 15-minute initial consultation so we can talk about what’s going on and whether working together feels like a good fit. There’s no pressure and no commitment.

Call or text: 646-717-4860

Email: dr@dansharir.com

I see clients in person on the Upper West Side and via telehealth throughout New York State.