Deprescribing With Care

Healing Isn’t Always About Adding More

Sometimes healing means gently letting go. At Resilient Mind Clinic, we support clients who feel ready to reduce or discontinue medications like benzodiazepines, antidepressants, and sleep aids, using slow, evidence-based approaches that prioritize your safety, autonomy, and emotional well-being.

Whether you're preparing for psychedelic-assisted therapy, experiencing side effects, or simply longing to feel more like yourself—we meet you where you are and taper at your pace.

Our Approach to Deprescribing

Deprescribing isn’t one-size-fits-all. We design personalized taper plans based on your medication history, symptoms, preferences, and life circumstances. We use well-studied, patient-centered protocols to reduce withdrawal symptoms and emotional destabilization.

We also support the emotional and psychological aspects of deprescribing—because coming off medications can be just as complex as starting them.

Methods We Use

The Ashton Method (for benzodiazepines)

The Ashton Manual, developed by Professor Heather Ashton, is one of the most respected benzodiazepine tapering guides available. It recommends:

• Substituting short-acting benzos (like alprazolam or lorazepam) with long-acting diazepam

• Tapering very slowly—sometimes over many months

• Adjusting the pace based on symptom response

• Supporting the nervous system with education, consistency, and time

Ashton emphasized that symptoms during tapering are temporary and reversible when properly managed.

The Oregon Benzodiazepine Tapering Guidelines

Created by Oregon's Health Authority, this guide complements the Ashton Method by:

• Offering stepwise reduction plans (often 5–10% dose cuts per 2–4 weeks)

• Emphasizing shared decision-making and informed consent

• Encouraging flexibility—pausing or slowing tapers when symptoms worsen

• Including withdrawal symptom charts and stabilizing strategies

We draw from both models to create a realistic, responsive plan that adapts to your body and your goals.

Antidepressant Tapering

Discontinuing antidepressants, especially SSRIs or SNRIs, requires a slower, gentler approach than many prescribers recommend. We often:

• Taper by 10% of the previous dose, every 2–4 weeks or longer

• Use liquid formulations or compound pharmacies when needed

• Monitor closely for withdrawal symptoms (emotional and physical)

• Support you with grounding strategies, lifestyle shifts, and integration therapy if desired

We believe in trusting the nervous system and not rushing it.

Is Deprescribing Right for You?

You might consider tapering if:

• You're experiencing side effects (emotional blunting, fatigue, brain fog)

• Your medication no longer feels necessary or helpful

• You're preparing for ketamine or psychedelic therapy

• You want to reclaim clarity, emotion, or sexual health

• You feel a desire to live with fewer external supports—carefully and safely

We never push medication decisions. We support you in exploring what’s best for your nervous system, your story, and your future.

What Support Looks Like

• A thorough medication review and readiness discussion

• Personalized tapering plan (with updates as needed)

• Symptom tracking, lifestyle support, and collaboration with your therapist

• Optional integration work as you step into life with fewer meds

• Virtual care across Kentucky, Colorado, and Montana

Deprescribing is a Form of Healing

Letting go of medication isn't about rejecting help—it’s about aligning your care with who you’re becoming. When done slowly and safely, deprescribing can be a powerful part of healing, clarity, and coming home to yourself.

Ready to explore this process with support?

Book a free consultation to learn if slow tapering is right for you.