Interpersonal Psychotherapy

IPT was originally developed to treat major depressive disorder, but it’s also used effectively to treat eating disorders, perinatal depression, drug and alcohol addiction, dysthymia, bipolar disorder, and other mood-related conditions. IPT differs from other traditional psychodynamic approaches in that it examines current rather than past relationships, and recognizes—but does not focus on—internal conflicts.

The practice differs from cognitive and behavioral therapy approaches because it addresses maladaptive thoughts and behaviors only as they apply to interpersonal relationships. IPT aims to change relationship patterns rather than the associated depressive symptoms, as well as target relationship difficulties that exacerbate these symptoms. Interpersonal psychotherapy is less directive than cognitive-behavioral approaches, focusing on the patient’s specified target areas without dwelling on his or her personality traits.

Interpersonal psychotherapy treatment typically consists of individual therapy sessions or group work completed within 12 to 16 weeks. Treatment is structured with homework, continuous assessment, and interviews by the therapist. The first phase of IPT often involves one to three sessions during which the mental health professional will assess depressive symptoms and examine social history and close relationships, including any changes in relationship patterns and expectations. Then, the therapist works with the patient to implement treatment strategies specific to any identified problem areas. As treatment progresses, a targeted problem area might change.

Correspondingly, so might the mental health professional’s recommended strategies. Group sessions—like individual ones—are time-limited, semi-structured, and focused on interpersonal dynamics. Groups provide more opportunities for patients to practice interpersonal skills in a safe and supportive environment. Group therapy also often includes pre-treatment, mid-treatment, and post-treatment individual meetings to review goals, strategies, and progress.

Interpersonal psychotherapy was developed more than 20 years ago as a time-structured treatment for major depression, and it has gained popularity in recent years. Practitioners believe that change in the social environment is a key factor in the onset of depression as well as continued depression. Originally developed for adults, interpersonal psychotherapy has been modified for practice with adolescents and elderly patients. This therapy first appeared as part of a study investigating the efficacy of antidepressants, and was found comparable in efficacy to medication.

Interpersonal psychotherapy is a relatively new therapy that was developed as a research intervention, and until recently, most practitioners of IPT were researchers. Its research success has led to its inclusion in clinical treatment guidelines and growing interest among clinicians, but the standards for clinical training for non-researchers are still being defined. The International Society for Interpersonal Psychotherapy, an international umbrella organization, deliberates training concerns and allows countries to develop their own credentialing processes for interpersonal psychotherapy.

A therapist should help the patient identify any interpersonal issues he or she wants to address, and rank them in order of importance. The therapist should also offer support regarding clarification of issues, communication analysis, and supportive listening.

This therapist can be found in clinics, private practice, and other settings and institutions.

Screen your potential therapist either in person or over video or phone. During this initial introduction, ask the therapist:

• How they may help with your particular concerns
• If they have dealt with this type of problem before
• The process and timeline for treatment