A 28-year-old female presents to the clinic with a “paralyzi…
A 28-year-old female presents to the clinic with a “paralyzing” fear of public speaking that has recently begun to interfere with her career as a marketing executive. She describes episodes of heart racing, shortness of breath, and trembling whenever she is required to lead a meeting. She requests a “fast-acting pill” she can take only when she has a presentation. Upon further assessment, the PMHNP notes the patient also experiences generalized worry on most days, muscle tension, and significant avoidance of social gatherings.Which of the following represents the most appropriate pharmacological strategy for this patient, and what is the neurobiological rationale for the choice?