Benzo-cooperative doctor?

Looking for a benzo-cooperative doctor to help me withdrawal from clonazapam. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated!

 

Many psychiatrists are sympathetic to the process. If a psychiatrist is too expensive, keep making appointments with family/internal med until you find someone who will help you. If you go in there asking for help to slowly and safely wean off of a benzo, you’ll find someone sooner than later who is going to be compassionate. Good luck!

Thank you for your kind suggestion. Maybe I don't need a psychiatrist-- they are outrageously expensive where I live.

I didn't use a psychiatrist to help with my taper. My original PCP was no help whatsoever. He was the one who said I could stop ativan cold turkey for a medical test and would just feel flu effects for a couple of days.  When I presented him with the Ashton Manual he said he wouldn't help me with it, he had a patient who couldn't get off valium. Huh?

 

Anyway, I searched for a much needed new PCP. It took a while and I found two in a practice that were very supportive and willing to help with the Ashton method.  One of the doctors was a huge support to me during the entire process.

 

It takes time, but it's worth it to keep looking for the right person.

 

pianogirl 

Yeah, Id say look for “supportive” in a Dr, above “apparently” benzo wise.. Its easy enough to train them, or perhaps learn together is a better way to put it.. A supportive Dr makes a huge difference..

 

Are you in the U.S.?

 

The Benzodiazepine Information Coalition maintains a database of “Benzodiazepine Doctors.”  However, it’s important to read the disclaimers at the top of the page:

 

This is a list of doctors who may be willing to work with patients on a slow taper. This does not mean they are experts in benzodiazepine withdrawal. It means they have received positive feedback from others who have chosen to taper off benzodiazepines, or have requested to join our benzodiazepine aware doctors list.

 

Some of the listed providers are not prescribers, but mental health specialists offering emotional support. These are noted with an asterisk.

 

Seeing a provider on this list does not mean you will not experience withdrawal symptoms. It means you may be able to taper at your own pace.

 

Here’s the link:

 

Doctors - Benzodiazepine Information Coalition

https://www.benzoinfo.com/doctors/