An integrated therapy for anxiety disorders

Abstract

Anxiety disorders are best viewed from the biopsychological model in terms of etiology as well as treatment. Leading psychological theories and treatments are reviewed, as well as biological theories and current pharmacotherapies of these disorders. Treatment using these modalities is discussed from several perspectives: the psychotherapist as primary therapist, consulting a pharmacotherapist for medication treatment; the pharmacotherapist as primary therapist, consulting a psychotherapist for addition of psychotherapy; and the solo practitioner, providing both psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. Case illustrations of each approach are given, and advantages, disadvantages, and pitfalls of each method are explored, concluding that in many cases, whether one or two therapists are involved, the best treatment is likely to be an integration of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.