A 45-year-old woman has been taking a short half-life SSRI for three years with full remission of her major depressive disorder. After a thorough collaborative discussion, she and her PMHNP have agreed that a trial of medication discontinuation is appropriate. She has been symptom-free for over 18 months, has strong psychosocial supports, and has developed effective coping strategies through cognitive behavioral therapy. She asks her PMHNP about the safest way to stop her medication. Which of the following best describes the evidence-based approach to minimizing discontinuation syndrome risk?