Interventions for benzodiazepine withdrawal: Perceptions of benzodiazepine counsellors

Abstract

Governments have been urged to adopt real-time prescription monitoring in order to manage and reduce risks associated with the long-term use of sleep and anti-anxiety medications. Given this imperative, accessible psychological interventions for benzodiazepine (BZD) dependency and withdrawal are essential. The aim of this study was to understand how counsellors support clients assessed as suitable for communitybased drug withdrawal services to reduce their BZD use. Six BZD counsellors and two service coordinators were interviewed. Counsellors collaborated with their clients and prescribing doctors to develop individualised taper schedules that were in line with recommended clinical guidelines. Psychoeducation underscored a range of evidence-based interventions, and a trauma-informed approach was considered essential in working with clients to reduce their use of BZDs. Continuity in care was affected by the degree of prescribing doctor support for the taper. Counsellors reported that workforce sustainability was enhanced by quality clinical supervision and professional development opportunities. The role of counsellors in providing accessible, community-based interventions for clients to reduce their use of BZDs was supported. Psychosocial support, combined with a medically supervised taper, has a strong evidence base and implications for client-centred interventions are discussed.

Community‐based counselling for benzodiazepine withdrawal: A mixed‐methods study of client outcomes

“…The counselling intervention was conducted by trained counsellors employed by the service (Wurf & Swing, 2022). Two of the counsellors were endorsed, registered psychologists, one in counselling psychology and one in health psychology.…”

“…Comorbid anxiety, depression and trauma were addressed through evidence-based interventions including cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, interpersonal therapy and brief psychodynamic therapy. Specific intervention components that counsellors used for coping with anxiety, depression, symptoms of withdrawal and trauma included activity scheduling, goal setting, mindfulness/meditation, progressive muscle relaxation and cognitive restructuring.The counselling intervention was conducted by trained counsellors employed by the service(Wurf & Swing, 2022). Two of the counsellors were endorsed, registered psychologists, one in counselling psychology and one in health psychology.…”