Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) is a brief therapy based on attachment and interpersonal theories. It focuses on resolving interpersonal issues that are causing mental health difficulties, like depression. Depression isn’t always caused by a problematic relationship but it can affect relationships when the sufferer seeks isolation, turns their focus inwards, or acts out.
The goals of IPT are therefore to improve the quality of clients’ relationships and social functioning by resolving problems in four key areas:
- Unresolved grief – IPT can help clients move forward from the distress of losing a loved one.
- Role transition – it can help clients manage difficult life transitions like divorce or retirement.
- Role dispute – it can help navigate difficult interpersonal relationships where two parties have differing expectations.
- Interpersonal deficits – sometimes the other three key areas are not appropriate but the client has a history of difficult interpersonal functioning that can be explored with IPT.
Over 12-20 sessions, the therapist moves with clients through the assessment, acute, and maintenance phases of treatment. It is important for the therapist and client to develop a strong, collaborative understanding of the client’s presentation, social circle, relationship patterns, and expectations. Specific strategies can then be implemented for the agreed appropriate problem areas while also increasing social support. The final sessions then review what has been gained from therapy and re-assess the client’s symptoms.
IPT has a good evidence-base for treating more than just depression. It has also shown efficacy in treating eating disorders, problematic substance and alcohol use, bipolar disorder, and dysthymia.