Psychiatric drugs such as antidepressants and antipsychotics are more prescribed today than at any other time in our profession’s history. Around a quarter of the UK adult population was prescribed a psychiatric drug last year, with around 16% being prescribed antidepressants (2016–17). The steep rise in prescriptions means that most therapists now work with clients who have either taken or are taking psychiatric drugs. To date, the lack of summarised evidence, information and training for therapists who work with clients experiencing withdrawal effects constitutes a growing problem for therapists whatever their modality or work setting.

This guidance seeks to provide such support in two distinct ways: firstly, it aims to support therapists in deepening their knowledge and reflection on working with the said client group. Secondly, it invites therapists to familiarise themselves with core issues relating to the role of psychiatric drugs in therapy.

While this guidance is written for therapists, much that is included may be of professional interest to those working in allied helping professions (e.g. nursing; occupational therapy; social work; and those in relevant caring and medical roles)