Beyond symptoms: the usefulness of early recollections in Adlerian treatment of panic attacks- a case study

Abstract This study explores the usefulness of Adlerian psychotherapy, specifically the use of early recollections (ERs), in treating panic attacks. The research is based on a case study involving 50 sessions with a patient presenting panic disorder. The paper is structured in three parts: (1) a literature review examining panic attacks, the Adlerian approach to psychological symptoms, and the use of ERs; (2) a case formulation including patient information and symptomatology, followed by an analysis of the therapeutic process centered on 12 ERs that emerged during therapy; and (3) a critical discussion of the Adlerian interpretation of symptoms and principal treatment outcomes. This case study contributes to the understanding of treatment for panic attacks, offering insights into the potential effectiveness of Adlerian psychotherapy and the role of ERs in addressing panic symptoms. The findings suggest that Adlerian therapy, particularly the use of ERs, may be a valuable approach in treating panic attacks.